Origin
Digitaria timorensis (Kunth) Balansa, commonly known as Timor grass, is a tropical grass species native to the island of Timor in Southeast Asia. It is also found in Indonesia, Australia, Papua New Guinea, and other tropical regions.
Common Names
Common names for this plant include Timor grass, sourgrass, woolly finger grass, and pangola grass.
Uses
Digitaria timorensis is an important forage crop for livestock in tropical regions, as it is rich in protein and other nutrients. It is also used for erosion control and as a ground cover in landscaping. Additionally, some varieties of this plant have been used in traditional medicine for their anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic properties.
General Appearance
Digitaria timorensis is a perennial grass that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. The plant has a dense, spreading growth habit and forms clumps or mats. The leaves are long and narrow, about 10-40 cm in length and 3-10 mm wide, with pointed tips and rough surfaces. The inflorescence is a narrow panicle with many small spikelets that contain the flowers. The seeds are small and black.
Light Requirements
Digitaria timorensis prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It can tolerate some shade but may become lanky and weak in low light conditions.
Temperature Requirements
Digitaria timorensis thrives in warm climates with temperatures ranging between 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of 15 degrees Celsius but may not survive freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Digitaria timorensis prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH ranging from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline. However, neutral to slightly alkaline soils are ideal for optimal growth. Waterlogged or poorly drained soils should be avoided as they can lead to root rot.
Cultivation
Digitaria timorensis is a warm-season grass that is tolerant of drought and can grow in a range of soil types. It grows well in full sun and requires at least six hours of direct sunlight every day. The seeds can be sown directly in the soil or started indoors before transplanting.
Watering Needs
Digitaria timorensis is adapted to a wide range of soil moisture conditions, from dry to moderately moist. However, it is important to note that it does not tolerate waterlogging or flooding. Therefore, the soil should be well-drained, and watering should be done as per the moisture level of the soil.
Fertilization
The plant requires regular fertilization for optimal growth and development. Application of balanced fertilizer, rich in nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus should be done during the growing season every three to four weeks. Organic compost can also be added to enhance the soil quality.
Pruning
Pruning often depends on the use of the plant. If used for grazing or hay-making, it is advisable to allow it to grow tall enough before pruning. However, if used for aesthetic purposes, regular mowing or pruning should be done to keep the plant healthy and lush. Pruning may also be necessary to get rid of unwanted weeds and dead branches.
Propagation of Digitaria Timorensis
Propagation methods for Digitaria timorensis include both sexual and vegetative propagation.
Sexual Propagation
The plant can be propagated from seed. The seeds are small and should be sown on the surface of a well-prepared seedbed. The soil should be moist, but not waterlogged. Germination typically occurs within 10-14 days. Once the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, they can be transplanted to their final growing location.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of Digitaria timorensis is done by stem cuttings. The stems should be cut into 10-15 cm in length and inserted into well-draining soil. The cuttings should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist and ensure successful rooting. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted to their final growing location.
Disease Management
Digitaria timorensis is susceptible to several diseases that can affect its growth and development. Some of the common diseases that affect the plant are:
- Anthracnose: It is a fungal disease that causes the appearance of large brown lesions on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage anthracnose, it is recommended to remove and destroy infected plant parts, use fungicides if needed, and ensure proper plant nutrition and watering.
- Leaf spot: It is a fungal disease that causes the formation of small circular or irregular spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage leaf spot, it is recommended to remove infected leaves, reduce plant density, and apply fungicides.
- Rust: It is a fungal disease that causes the formation of yellow or orange spots on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage rust, it is recommended to remove and destroy infected plant parts, use fungicides if needed, and ensure proper plant nutrition and watering.
Pest Management
Digitaria timorensis is also susceptible to several pests that can cause severe damage to the plant. Some of the common pests that affect the plant are:
- Armyworms: They are the larvae of certain moths that can cause severe damage to the plant by feeding on its leaves and stems. To manage armyworms, it is recommended to handpick and destroy the larvae, apply insecticides if needed, and use biological control agents.
- Cutworms: They are the larvae of certain moths that can cut the stem of the plant, causing it to wilt and die. To manage cutworms, it is recommended to remove and destroy infected plants, apply insecticides if needed, and use biological control agents.
- Aphids: They are small insects that can suck the sap from the plant, causing the leaves to curl and distort. To manage aphids, it is recommended to wash the plant with soapy water, use insecticides if needed, and use natural predators such as ladybugs.
