Origin and Common Names
Digitaria tenuiflora (R.Br.) P.Beauv. is a species of grass that is native to Australia and New Zealand. It is commonly known as slender crabgrass, slimpod or wiregrass.
General Appearance
This grass has a slender stem and can grow up to 30cm in height. Its leaves are light green in color and are 1mm to 2mm wide. The plant produces inflorescences that consist of spikelets that are 3mm to 5mm long. The spikelets are arranged in a panicle, which is an open, branching flower cluster.
Uses
Digitaria tenuiflora has a variety of uses. It is a good forage grass for livestock and is often used for hay or silage. It is also used as a ground cover for erosion control. In addition, the plant has medicinal properties and has been used by indigenous people to treat a variety of ailments, including sore throat, toothache and skin infections.
Light Requirements
Digitaria tenuiflora typically requires full sunlight to grow. The plant can tolerate some shade but performs best in direct sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in warm temperatures ranging between 20°C and 30°C but can tolerate temperatures as low as -10°C.
Soil Requirements
Digitaria tenuiflora grows best in well-drained soils with a pH range of 5.0 to 6.5. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil textures from sand to clay. However, it performs best in loamy soils that are rich in nutrients.
Cultivation Methods
Digitaria tenuiflora, also known as slender panicgrass, is a warm-season grass that can be grown in a wide range of soil types, but prefers a well-draining soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0. This plant is tolerant of drought and heat and can be grown in full sun or partial shade.
Propagation is typically done through seed, which should be planted in late spring or early summer once soil temperatures have reached at least 65°F. The seeds should be sown at a depth of ¼ to ½ inch and watered regularly until established.
Watering Needs
Digitaria tenuiflora is drought tolerant, but still requires regular watering to maintain its health and appearance. It is important to provide the plant with enough water to keep the soil moist, but not saturated. The frequency of watering will depend on the climate and soil conditions, but as a general rule, the plant should be watered deeply once a week, rather than receiving frequent shallow waterings.
Fertilization
Digitaria tenuiflora benefits from regular fertilization to encourage healthy growth and to maintain its appearance. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium should be applied in early spring, as well as a slow-release fertilizer in mid-summer. Fertilizer should be applied according to package instructions and watered in thoroughly.
Pruning
While Digitaria tenuiflora doesn't require regular pruning, it will benefit from occasional trimming to maintain its shape and appearance. The plant should be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Use sharp pruning shears to remove any damaged, dead or overgrown stems, making clean cuts just above the base of the plant.
Propagation of Digitaria tenuiflora (R.Br.) P.Beauv.
Digitaria tenuiflora (R.Br.) P.Beauv. can be propagated by seeds and vegetative means.
Propagation by Seeds
The best time to collect the seeds of Digitaria tenuiflora is during the summer when they are mature. The seeds are easily collected by hand and can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to a year.
Before planting the seeds, the soil should be prepared by removing any weeds and adding organic matter. The seeds should be sown at a depth of around 2 cm and covered with a thin layer of soil. Water the seeds regularly, but be careful not to overwater as this can cause the seeds to rot.
Germination should occur within 7-14 days, but can take up to 3 weeks. Once the seedlings have grown to a height of around 5 cm, they should be thinned out to prevent overcrowding. When the plants are around 10 cm tall, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Propagation by Vegetative Means
Digitaria tenuiflora can also be propagated vegetatively through stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is during the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing.
The cuttings should be around 10 cm long and should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cuttings in rooting hormone to encourage root growth.
Plant the cuttings in a well-draining soil mixture and keep them moist. Within a few weeks, roots should start to grow from the base of the cuttings. Once the roots are established, the new plants can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Disease Management
Digitaria tenuiflora is susceptible to several diseases, including:
- Leaf Spots: These are caused by fungal infections and can cause spots on the leaves. To manage them, remove and destroy the infected leaves and apply fungicides.
- Root Rot: This is caused by several soil-borne fungi and can lead to plant death. To manage it, avoid overwatering and ensure adequate drainage. Applying fungicides can also help.
- Stem Rust: This disease is caused by fungi that produce rusty brown pustules on the stems. To manage it, remove and dispose of infected plant debris and apply fungicides.
Pest Management
Digitaria tenuiflora can also be affected by various pests, including:
- Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that can distort new growth and cause stunted growth. To manage them, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Sod Webworms: These are the larvae of moths that feed on the grass blades. To manage them, apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) to the affected areas.
- Chinch Bugs: These are small insects that suck sap from the grass blades, causing them to turn yellow and brown. To manage them, apply insecticides containing pyrethroids or imidacloprid.
Regular monitoring of the plants and maintaining good cultural practices such as proper watering and fertilization can also help prevent the occurrence of diseases and pests.
