Origin
Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn. ssp. africana (Kennedy & O'Byrne) Hilu & de Wet, also known as African finger millet, is a cereal crop that originated in East Africa.
Common Names
The plant is known by various common names in different regions, including African finger millet, koracan, ragi, and wimbi.
Uses
African finger millet is a staple food crop in many regions of Africa, particularly in drier areas where other crops struggle to grow. It is highly nutritious, containing high levels of calcium, iron, and other minerals. In addition to being used for food, the plant is also used for traditional medicine, with the seeds being used to treat a range of ailments from constipation to diabetes and hypertension.
General Appearance
African finger millet is an annual grass that can grow up to 1.5 meters in height. The plant has long, slender leaves and produces cylindrical seed heads, which can range in color from straw yellow to dark purple. The seeds themselves are small and round, and can be either white, brown, or black. The plant is well adapted to dry conditions, and is often grown in areas with low rainfall or poor soil quality.
hereLight Requirements
Eleusine coracana ssp. africana typically prefers full sun exposure, but can tolerate partially shaded conditions. It requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight per day to grow optimally.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Eleusine coracana ssp. africana growth is between 25 and 30°C (77-86°F). The plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 15°C (59°F) but this may lead to stunted growth. At temperatures above 35°C (95°F), the plant may wilt and become stressed.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining, sandy loam soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. Eleusine coracana ssp. africana can tolerate moderately acidic to alkaline soils but performs best in neutral to slightly alkaline soils. The soil should be rich in organic matter and should not be compacted as this can affect root development. The plant can tolerate some level of drought but cannot withstand waterlogged conditions.
Cultivation Methods
Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn. ssp. africana (Kennedy & O'Byrne) Hilu & de Wet, commonly known as finger millet, is a hardy crop that can withstand various weather conditions. It is mostly cultivated in tropical regions and requires a warm and average annual rainfall of 700-900 mm. The best soils for planting finger millet are loamy and rich in humus content. The recommended planting time is during the rainy season or when there is enough surface moisture for germination.
Watering Needs
Finger millet requires regular watering particularly during the first 45-60 days. It is recommended to water the crop twice a week during the rainy season and increase the frequency to three times a week during the dry season. Overwatering will lead to waterlogging, which affects growth and development. Mulching is recommended to retain soil moisture and reduce water evaporation.
Fertilization
To promote healthy growth and development, finger millet requires adequate nutrient supply. The recommended fertilizers for finger millet are nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Application of nitrogen-rich fertilizers should be done in the early stages of growth to promote germination and establishment. Phosphate-rich fertilizers should be applied during the flowering and seed development stage. Potassium is essential in promoting root growth and development. Organic manure such as compost can also be added to improve soil fertility and provide nutrients.
Pruning
Pruning of finger millet is not necessary since the plant grows to a height of 3-4 feet and does not require support. However, it is recommended to remove diseased or damaged leaves to prevent infection and promote growth. After harvesting, the plant should be cut at a height of 6 inches from the ground to allow for regrowth and control weed infestation.
Propagation of Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn. ssp. africana (Kennedy & O'Byrne) Hilu & de Wet
Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn. ssp. africana (Kennedy & O'Byrne) Hilu & de Wet, commonly known as finger millet, is propagated mainly through seed. However, vegetative propagation is also possible, although not widely practiced.
Seed propagation
Seeds are the most commonly used method for propagating finger millet. The seeds are small and should be sown at a depth of 2-3 cm. They should be sown in rows, with a distance of 20-30 cm between the rows. Seeds should be sown during the rainy season or when there is enough moisture in the soil, as the seedlings require adequate moisture for growth and development. It takes about 3-5 days for the seeds to germinate.
Vegetative propagation
Vegetative propagation of finger millet is not commonly practiced, but it is possible by using stem or root cuttings. Stem cuttings are taken from mature plants and planted directly in soil or in a rooting medium to promote root development. Root cuttings, on the other hand, are taken from the roots of mature plants and planted in the soil to promote new shoot growth. Both stem and root cuttings should be taken from healthy plants and planted in a well-prepared soil with adequate moisture for best results.
Disease Management
Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn. ssp. africana (Kennedy & O'Byrne) Hilu & de Wet is prone to several diseases which can reduce plant growth and yield.
Leaf spot diseases: Common leaf spot diseases affecting Eleusine coracana are caused by fungi such as Bipolaris spp., Colletotrichum spp., and Curvularia spp. Use of resistant cultivars, crop rotation, and fungicide application can help manage leaf spot diseases.
Blast: Blast is a fungal disease caused by Magnaporthe grisea. It affects the leaves, stems, and seeds of Eleusine coracana. Planting resistant cultivars, removing infected plants, and crop rotation can help manage blast disease.
Downy mildew: Downy mildew is a fungal disease caused by Peronosclerospora sorghi. It causes yellowing and drying of leaves. Cultural practices such as adequate spacing, removal of infected plants, and avoiding overhead irrigation can help manage downy mildew.
Grain smut: Grain smut is a fungal disease caused by Tolyposporium penicillariae. It affects the grain head and leads to low-quality grain. Crop rotation, use of certified seeds, and seed treatment can help manage grain smut disease.
Pest Management
Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn. ssp. africana (Kennedy & O'Byrne) Hilu & de Wet is also susceptible to several pests that can cause significant yield losses.
Armyworm: Armyworms are common pests of Eleusine coracana. They feed on leaves and can cause significant damage. Application of insecticides and biological control agents such as Bacillus thuringiensis can help manage armyworms.
Aphids: Aphids are sucking pests that can cause yellowing and curling of leaves and stunted growth. Use of insecticides, release of natural enemies, and planting resistant cultivars can help manage aphids.
Termites: Termites are soil pests that can attack the roots and stems of Eleusine coracana. Use of insecticides, biological control agents such as nematodes, and crop rotation can help manage termites.
Stink bugs: Stink bugs are piercing-sucking pests that can reduce grain quality and yield. Use of insecticides and cultural practices such as weed management can help manage stink bugs.
