Overview
Digitaria procurrens Goetgh. is a type of grass commonly found in tropical and sub-tropical regions. Also known as the hairy crabgrass, this plant is widely used for its medicinal properties and ornamental value.
Origin and Common Names
Digitaria procurrens Goetgh. is native to Africa but has spread to other parts of the world, including Asia, Australia, and the Americas. It has several common names, including hairy crabgrass, tropical crabgrass, and smooth crabgrass.
Appearance and Characteristics
Digitaria procurrens Goetgh. is an annual plant that can grow up to 60 cm in height. It has a cylindrical stem and long, narrow leaves that are green or purple in color. The plant produces tiny flowers in clusters that are green or purplish in color. One of the distinguishing characteristics of the plant is its hairy or rough texture, providing it with its common name- hairy crabgrass.
Uses
Digitaria procurrens Goetgh. has several medicinal properties, and is used in traditional African medicine to treat a variety of health conditions, including stomach pains and headaches. In addition, the plant is used as a natural dye and can be used in landscaping as an ornamental grass. Though hairy crabgrass is considered a weed in some parts of the world, it can also be used for erosion control and as a source of forage for livestock.
Light Requirements
Digitaria procurrens is a warm-season grass that thrives in full sun. The plant requires at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth. Plants grown in partial shade tend to be weaker with less yield.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is adapted to tropical and subtropical regions and thrives in hot growing conditions. The ideal temperature range for Digitaria procurrens is between 25°C and 35°C. The grass is susceptible to frost damage, and its growth slows down significantly in cool temperatures, specifically below 18°C.
Soil Requirements
Digitaria procurrens requires well-draining soil with a pH range of 5 to 7.5. The plant prefers soil that is rich in organic matter and moist but not waterlogged. The grass can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clayey and sandy soils; however, it prefers sandy loam soils.
Cultivation
The plant Digitaria procurrens Goetgh. grows best in warm temperatures and bright light conditions, with a minimum temperature of around 20°C. It can tolerate full sun and partial shade and prefers well-drained soil. It is important to plant Digitaria procurrens Goetgh. in an area with good air circulation and low humidity. It also prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil pH levels between 6.0 and 7.5.
Watering Needs
Digitaria procurrens Goetgh. requires moderate watering with well-draining soil, not allowing it to become too moist. Overwatering can be detrimental to the plant and lead to root rot, so it is essential to water only when the soil is dry to the touch. In case of high temperatures and intense light, the plant may require more frequent watering.
Fertilization
Digitaria procurrens Goetgh. requires regular fertilization for optimal growth. Fertilize monthly, or every few weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half-strength. Alternatively, you can use organic fertilizers such as manure tea or worm castings. It is important to avoid over-fertilization, which can cause salt build-up and harm the plant.
Pruning
Digitaria procurrens Goetgh. requires minimal pruning, mainly to maintain its shape and size. It is best to remove any dead or yellowing leaves as they can attract pests and diseases. You can also prune back any excessively long or leggy stems to encourage bushier growth. Pruning should be done during the plant's active growth phase, which is generally during the spring and summer months.
Propagation of Digitaria procurrens Goetgh.
Digitaria procurrens Goetgh. can be propagated through several methods.
Seed Propagation
Seeds are the most common and effective way to propagate Digitaria procurrens Goetgh. However, before planting the seeds, they must be properly cleaned and dried. The seeds can then be sown directly into soil or started indoors in pots. It is important to note that the seeds of this plant have a low germination rate and should be planted in relatively large numbers to achieve a good yield.
Vegetative Propagation
Digitaria procurrens Goetgh. can also be propagated through vegetative means. One way is by dividing the clumps of the mother plant. This can be done by carefully digging up the root ball and separating it into smaller sections, each with a few shoots and roots. These smaller sections can then be replanted into separate pots or directly in the ground.
Another way to propagate Digitaria procurrens Goetgh. through vegetative means is by stem cuttings. This involves cutting a stem from the mother plant and planting it in a growing medium. The stem should be about 4 inches long and should be planted in a moist potting mix. After a few weeks, the stem should start to produce roots and can then be transplanted into a larger pot or directly in the ground.
Disease Management
The plant Digitaria procurrens Goetgh. may be susceptible to various diseases such as leaf spot, crown rot, and anthracnose. To manage these diseases, proper cultural practices such as planting in well-drained soil and adequate watering should be implemented. Additionally, applying fungicides can help prevent the spread of these diseases. It is important to regularly monitor the plants for any signs of disease and to promptly take action to prevent further spread.
Pest Management
Digitaria procurrens Goetgh. may also be affected by various pests such as aphids, grasshoppers, and spider mites. To manage these pests, regular monitoring of the plants for any signs of infestation is essential. Applying neem oil or insecticidal soap can help eliminate and prevent pest infestations. Additionally, introducing natural predators of these pests, such as ladybugs or lacewings, can help control infestations as well. It is important to use caution when applying pesticides and to follow all instructions to minimize any negative impacts on the plant and the surrounding environment.
