Description of Digitaria tenuifolia Goetgh. Plant
Digitaria tenuifolia Goetgh. is a species of grass known by several common names such as poverty grass, small crabgrass, and slender crabgrass. It is an annual or perennial plant belonging to the Poaceae family. The plant is native to North America, specifically in places with dry soil conditions like deserts, fields, and slopes.
General Appearance
The slender crabgrass has short stems which can grow up to 50 cm in length. The leaves are narrow, often flat, and measure about 1 cm in width. The plant has a fine texture with thin leaves, giving it a delicate appearance. The seeds of the Digitaria tenuifolia plant are small, and easily transported by the wind. The seeds can be found in clusters at the top of the stem which often bend down towards the ground as they mature.
Uses
Agriculturally, the Digitaria tenuifolia Goetgh. plant serves as forage for livestock like sheep, goats, and cows. The grass is low in fiber, high in protein and nutrition, making it a suitable supplement for the diets of animals. In terms of medicinal use, some Native American tribes used the grass to alleviate fever, while others used it to relieve arthritis pain. The seeds consist of about 24% protein and can be consumed by humans. However, they are extremely small and can be difficult to harvest.
In conclusion, the Digitaria tenuifolia Goetgh. plant is a fascinating grass species with several common names, meaning different things in different locations, and having several medicinal and dietary properties.
Light Requirements
Digitaria tenuifolia Goetgh. is a warm-season grass that requires full sun exposure to grow and thrive. It cannot tolerate too much shade and may fail to grow or develop properly if grown in areas that receive inadequate sunlight. Therefore, it is best to plant this species in open areas with plenty of direct sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Digitaria tenuifolia Goetgh. is a warm-season grass that does not tolerate frost or freezing temperatures. It grows best in warm to hot climates with average temperatures ranging from 26 to 35°C (78 to 95°F). Temperatures below 10°C (50°F) can significantly slow down its growth and development, and temperatures below 0°C (32°F) can kill the plant.
Soil Requirements
Digitaria tenuifolia Goetgh. prefers to grow in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils, as long as they are not waterlogged or too compacted. The ideal soil pH range for this species is between 6.0 and 7.5. If the soil is too acidic or alkaline, it may affect the availability of nutrients and hinder the plant's growth and development. Regular fertilization can help maintain optimal soil nutrient levels.
Cultivation of Digitaria tenuifolia Goetgh.
Digitaria tenuifolia Goetgh. is a warm-season annual grass that prefers tropical and subtropical regions. It grows best in well-drained soils with moderate fertility. The optimal pH range for growth is between 5.5 and 7.
Watering Needs of Digitaria tenuifolia Goetgh.
Digitaria tenuifolia Goetgh. requires regular watering during the growing season to maintain optimal growth. Watering should be done deeply and infrequently, ensuring that the topsoil remains moist. The frequency of watering should be adjusted according to the weather conditions and the moisture content of the soil.
Fertilization of Digitaria tenuifolia Goetgh.
Digitaria tenuifolia Goetgh. requires a regular application of nitrogen-based fertilizers to ensure healthy growth. Fertilization should be done at the beginning of the growing season and repeated every four to six weeks. The amount of fertilizer applied should be based on a soil test and the growth requirements of the plant.
Pruning of Digitaria tenuifolia Goetgh.
Pruning is not necessary for Digitaria tenuifolia Goetgh. as it is an annual grass that dies back at the end of the growing season. If a neater appearance is desired, the plant can be mowed to a height of around 3-4 inches. This can be done once or twice during the growing season to reduce the height of the plant and promote new growth.
Propagation of Digitaria tenuifolia Goetgh.
Digitaria tenuifolia Goetgh. is primarily propagated through seeds and vegetative means. The following are some propagation methods:
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Digitaria tenuifolia have short viability periods, and they should be sown immediately after harvesting.
The seeds should be surface-sown in well-prepared soil, kept moist, and exposed to direct sunlight. Germination should occur within 1-2 weeks.
Seedlings should be thinned to an appropriate spacing depending on the intended use.
Vegetative Propagation
Digitaria tenuifolia can be propagated through stolons and rhizomes.
Stolons are horizontal stems that develop from the base of the plant and produce new roots and shoots. They can be separated and replanted to establish new plants.
Rhizomes are underground stems that produce new shoots and roots. They can be dug up, divided into sections, and replanted to establish new plants.
Both stolons and rhizomes should be planted at a depth of 2-3 cm to promote rapid rooting and establishment.
Vegetative propagation can be done any time of the year, but it is most successful during the growing season.
Disease Management
Digitaria tenuifolia is susceptible to several fungal diseases such as leaf spot, rust, and smut. These diseases can cause discoloration, wilting, and a general decline in the plant's vigor. To control fungal diseases, it is important to plant resistant varieties, use disease-free seeds, and provide appropriate cultural conditions such as well-drained soil and adequate irrigation. Fungicides can also be applied in severe cases, but their use should be minimized due to potential environmental and health hazards.
Pest Management
Several pests can damage Digitaria tenuifolia, including cutworms, armyworms, and grasshoppers. These pests can cause significant damage to plant foliage and roots, leading to reduced growth and yield. To manage pests, it is important to monitor the plants regularly for the presence of pests and take appropriate measures when necessary. Cultural practices such as crop rotation and intercropping can also help prevent pest infestations. Natural predators such as birds and insects can also be encouraged to control pest populations. If chemical control is necessary, it is recommended to use low-toxicity pesticides and apply them according to the manufacturer's instructions.
