Origin and Common Names
Digitaria tisserantii Jacq.-Fél. is a plant species that belongs to the family Poaceae or Grass Family. It is commonly known as Tisserant's fingergrass or by its scientific name. The plant species is indigenous to West Africa, particularly in Mali, Senegal, Guinea, Sierra Leone.
Appearance
The plant grows up to 50-100 cm tall and has erect or ascending culms. The leaves are flat, linear, and up to 40 cm long and about 3-8 mm wide. The inflorescence is composed of digitate spikes, which are 3-12 cm long and usually clustered at the tips of the culms. The spikelets are solitary and elliptic to ovate in shape, measuring about 1.2-1.5 mm long.
Uses
Digitaria tisserantii Jacq.-Fél. is used primarily as fodder for livestock in West African countries, as it is highly nutritious and palatable. Its seeds are also used to make flour for traditional bread-making and porridge. The plant is also believed to have medicinal properties that can treat various ailments such as fever, malaria, jaundice, and digestive issues. Additionally, the plant's ability to control soil erosion and promote soil fertility makes it useful as cover crops and as a natural alternative to synthetic herbicides.
Light Requirements
Digitaria tisserantii Jacq.-Fél. typically requires full sunlight exposure for at least 6 hours a day. The plant can tolerate some shade during the day, but exposure to direct sunlight is essential for optimal growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can grow in a variety of temperature conditions, but the optimal temperature range for Digitaria tisserantii Jacq.-Fél. is between 20-30°C (68-86°F). Temperatures below 10°C (50°F) or above 40°C (104°F) can significantly affect the plant's growth rate, forming yellow leaves or even killing the plant.
Soil Requirements
The soil in which Digitaria tisserantii Jacq.-Fél. grows needs to have adequate drainage and a neutral pH level between 6.5-7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter, such as compost or manure, and have a moderate amount of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The plant can tolerate drought conditions but will grow best in well-draining soil with consistent moisture levels.
Cultivation methods for Digitaria tisserantii Jacq.-Fél.
Digitaria tisserantii Jacq.-Fél. is typically propagated through seeds or sods. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate partial shade. The ideal temperature range for growth is between 70°F to 85°F. To ensure rapid growth, use quality seeds and maintain adequate soil moisture throughout the germination period.
Watering needs for Digitaria tisserantii Jacq.-Fél.
Digitaria tisserantii Jacq.-Fél. requires regular watering to thrive. A deep and infrequent watering technique is best suited to meet the plant's water requirements. Water the plant deeply once a week, rather than shallow watering frequently, to encourage deep root growth. Adequate water supply is especially crucial during hot summer months.
Fertilization for Digitaria tisserantii Jacq.-Fél.
Digitaria tisserantii Jacq.-Fél. requires a steady supply of essential nutrients for their growth. Apply a balanced fertilizer high in nitrogen every four to six weeks during the growing season. It is best to fertilize after watering, to avoid burning the roots from the salt in the fertilizer. Follow the recommended rates of fertilizer application to prevent excessive growth and negative impacts on the plant's health.
Pruning Digitaria tisserantii Jacq.-Fél.
Digitaria tisserantii Jacq.-Fél. does not require routine pruning, but it is recommended to remove any dead, diseased, or damaged leaves and stems promptly. Prune the plant in the early spring to remove any excessive top growth or when the plant's height becomes unmanageable. Be sure to use clean, sharp tools when pruning to avoid damaging the remaining foliage and reduce the risk of disease.
Propagation of Digitaria tisserantii Jacq.-Fél.
Digitaria tisserantii Jacq.-Fél. can be propagated by seed or division. Both methods have their advantages, and growers should choose the method that works best for their particular situation.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation by seed is the easiest method for growers who want to increase their stock of Digitaria tisserantii Jacq.-Fél. Seeds are available from a variety of sources and can be sown in pots or directly in the garden.
To propagate Digitaria tisserantii Jacq.-Fél. by seed, start by selecting a well-draining planting medium. Sow the seed thinly on the surface of the medium and cover with a light layer of soil. Water the soil gently and keep it moist until the seeds germinate. This usually takes about two weeks.
Once the seedlings have emerged, they should be thinned to allow adequate space for growth. When the seedlings are about 3 inches tall, they can be transplanted to their final location.
Propagation by Division
Propagation by division is preferred by growers who want to maintain the genetic integrity of their plants. It is also an effective way to rejuvenate older plants that have become woody or unproductive.
To propagate Digitaria tisserantii Jacq.-Fél. by division, start by digging up an established clump of plants. Carefully separate the clump into smaller pieces, making sure that each piece has a good root system. Replant the pieces in well-draining soil, and water well.
Division is best done in the spring, just as new growth is starting to appear. This gives the plants plenty of time to establish themselves before the hot summer weather arrives.
Disease and Pest Management for Digitaria tisserantii Jacq.-Fél.
Digitaria tisserantii, also known as Tisserand's crabgrass, is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and yield. Proper management of these issues can help to ensure a healthy and productive crop.
Common Diseases
The most common diseases affecting Digitaria tisserantii are fungal infections, including leaf spot and root rot. Leaf spot is characterized by brown or black spots on the leaves, which can cause them to wilt and die. Root rot affects the plant's root system and can cause stunted growth and yellowing leaves.
To manage these diseases, it is important to maintain proper plant spacing and to avoid overwatering. Fungicides may be used to control infections, but it is best to consult with a professional before applying any chemicals to the plants.
Common Pests
The main pests affecting Digitaria tisserantii are grasshoppers and spider mites. Grasshoppers can cause significant damage to the foliage of the plant by chewing on the leaves. Spider mites suck the sap from the leaves, which can cause them to turn yellow and eventually die.
To manage these pests, it is important to monitor the plants regularly and remove any affected leaves. Insecticides may be used to control infestations, but it is important to follow the label instructions carefully and to avoid overuse of chemicals.
Prevention
The best way to manage diseases and pests is to prevent them from occurring in the first place. This can be done by planting disease-resistant varieties and by maintaining proper plant nutrition and watering practices. Additionally, it is important to remove any dead or diseased plant material to prevent the spread of infection.
By following these management practices, growers can help to ensure a healthy and productive crop of Digitaria tisserantii.
