Description
Eleusine indica (L.) Gaertn. ssp. africana (Kennedy & O'Byrne) S.M. Phillips is a type of grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is an annual or perennial herb that can grow up to 1 meter tall and can be found throughout the world, except Antarctica.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as African finger grass, goose grass, wire grass, or crowfoot grass.
Origin
Eleusine indica (L.) Gaertn. ssp. africana is native to Africa, but it has now spread to other parts of the world, including Asia, America, Europe, and Australia. It often grows in disturbed areas and is considered a weed in many regions.
Uses
Eleusine indica (L.) Gaertn. ssp. africana has been used for many purposes. In traditional medicine, it is believed to have therapeutic properties that can treat various health problems such as cough, fever, and inflammation. The plant is also used as animal feed, and some people eat the seeds of the plant. Additionally, it has been used to prevent soil erosion and as a natural insecticide.
General Appearance
The plant has long, narrow leaves that grow from the base, and the stem is slender and erect. The flowers are arranged in spikes at the tips of the stems and are green or purplish in color. The plant produces long, thin seed heads that resemble fingers, which is where it gets its name "finger grass."
hereGrowth Conditions for Eleusine Indica (L.) Gaertn. ssp. Africana (Kennedy & O'Byrne) S.M. Phillips
Eleusine indica (L.) Gaertn. ssp. Africana (Kennedy & O'Byrne) S.M. Phillips, also known as goosegrass, is a common weed found in areas with disturbed soils, lawns, gardens, and agricultural fields. This plant is native to Africa and has spread to other parts of the world. The growth conditions for Eleusine indica are relatively easy to achieve, and the plant can be invasive in some areas.
Light Requirements
The plant prefers full sunlight but can grow in partial shade. It is commonly found in areas with a lot of sun exposure such as lawns, gardens, and fields.
Temperature Requirements
Eleusine indica is a warm-season grass that thrives in temperatures ranging from 16 to 32 °C. The plant can tolerate high temperatures but will not grow well in cold areas. The plant dies back in winter and regrows in the spring and summer.
Soil Requirements
The plant thrives in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils with a pH range of 4.5 – 8.5. Eleusine indica prefers moist soil but can tolerate periods of drought. The plant is commonly found in areas with disturbed soils such as roadsides, fields, and gardens. It can quickly spread in areas with fertile soils.
Fertilizer Requirements
Eleusine indica does not require a lot of fertilizers to grow. However, adding nitrogen-rich fertilizers can increase its growth rate and the number of seeds produced. Adding organic compost or manure to the soil can also improve growth.
Cultivation Methods
Eleusine indica (L.) Gaertn. ssp. africana (Kennedy & O'Byrne) S.M. Phillips, commonly known as African goosegrass, is a warm-season annual grass that is commonly found in agricultural fields, gardens, and lawns throughout tropical and subtropical regions. It is a hardy plant that is known for its ability to adapt to a wide range of growing conditions and soil types.
To cultivate African goosegrass, plant the seeds in the spring or early summer when the soil temperature reaches about 65°F. The seeds should be planted in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal pH range for African goosegrass is between 5.5 and 6.5.
The plant requires full sun to grow, and it can tolerate some shade. African goosegrass can be grown from seed or propagated by division. When grown for ornamental purposes, it can be planted in garden beds, containers, or hanging baskets.
Watering Needs
African goosegrass requires regular watering to maintain healthy growth. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which is harmful to the plant.
During periods of drought, African goosegrass can go dormant and lose its green color. To revive the plant, water it deeply and wait for it to recover. It is important to always check the moisture levels of the soil before watering.
Fertilization
To encourage healthy growth and development, African goosegrass requires regular fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 blend, every four to six weeks during the growing season. The fertilizer should be applied to the soil around the base of the plant, and watered in deeply.
Over-fertilization can lead to excessive growth and a weakened root system. It is important to follow the recommended guidelines for fertilization, and to always test the soil before applying any fertilizers to assess nutrient levels.
Pruning
Pruning is not typically required for African goosegrass, as it has a naturally compact growth habit and does not develop woody stems. However, the plant can be pruned to maintain its shape and size, and to remove any dead or damaged foliage.
If pruning is necessary, use clean, sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts. Be sure to prune the plant after it has finished blooming. Pruning African goosegrass can also be used to propagate new plants by taking cuttings from the pruned stems.
Propagation of Eleusine indica (L.) Gaertn. ssp. africana (Kennedy & O'Byrne) S.M. Phillips
There are two main methods of propagating Eleusine indica ssp. africana: seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed propagation
Seeds of Eleusine indica ssp. africana are typically sown directly into the soil. The seeds should be planted in an area with well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. It is important to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, during the germination process. Seeds should begin to germinate within 7 to 14 days.
Seed propagation can also be done indoors. Plant the seeds in potting soil and keep them in an area with plenty of light. Make sure to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, during the germination process. Once the seedlings have developed several leaves, they can be transplanted outdoors.
Vegetative propagation
Vegetative propagation of Eleusine indica ssp. africana can be done through stem cuttings. Cut a stem of the plant at least 4 inches long, making sure to include at least one node. Remove the leaves from the bottom two-thirds of the stem. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and plant it in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and the cutting should take root within 2 to 3 weeks.
Division of the plant is another method of vegetative propagation. This involves separating the plant into smaller sections, making sure each section has some roots and foliage. Replant the sections in well-draining soil, and keep the soil moist until the new plants are established.
Disease Management
Eleusine indica (L.) Gaertn. ssp. africana (Kennedy & O'Byrne) S.M. Phillips, commonly known as African fingergrass, is a vigorous weed that can cause yield losses in crops. Here are some of the common diseases that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Bacterial Leaf Blight
Bacterial leaf blight can cause water-soaked lesions that turn dark brown. These lesions may coalesce, causing the leaves to appear burnt. The bacteria can be spread through rain, irrigation water, and wind. To manage this disease, avoid overhead irrigation and remove infected plants. Copper-based bactericides can also be applied to reduce the spread of the bacteria.
Fusarium Wilt
Fusarium wilt is a fungal disease that causes stunting, yellowing, and wilting of the plant. The fungus can survive in the soil for many years and can be spread through contaminated soil or infected seeds. To manage this disease, rotate crops and plant resistant cultivars. Fungicides can also be applied to reduce the spread of the fungus.
Yellow Spot
Yellow spot is caused by the fungus Cochliobolus heterostrophus. It causes small, yellowish spots that can merge and form large necrotic areas on the leaves. The fungus can be spread through wind and rain. To manage this disease, remove infected debris and avoid planting in areas with a history of the disease. Fungicides can also be used to reduce the spread of the fungus.
Pest Management
African fingergrass can also be attacked by various pests that can cause serious damage to the plant. Here are some of the common pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Armyworm
Armyworms are the larvae of moths that can cause severe damage to the plant. They feed on leaves, stems, and seed heads, causing defoliation and yield losses. To manage this pest, monitor the field regularly and apply insecticides when the pest population reaches economic threshold levels. Cultural practices, such as tillage and crop rotation, can also help reduce the population of the pest.
Cutworm
Cutworms are the larvae of several moth species that can cut the plant stems at the base, causing the plant to wilt and eventually die. To manage this pest, remove plant debris and weeds from the field and apply insecticides when necessary. You can also use cutworm collars or barriers around the base of the plant to prevent the larvae from feeding on the stem.
Mites
Mites are tiny arthropods that can cause discoloration and defoliation of the plant. They feed on the plant sap, causing the leaves to appear yellow or bronzed. To manage this pest, apply miticides when necessary and avoid over-fertilizing and over-watering the plant, as these conditions can favor the population growth of the mites.
Overall, managing the diseases and pests that might affect Eleusine indica (L.) Gaertn. ssp. africana (Kennedy & O'Byrne) S.M. Phillips is crucial to ensure that the plant can thrive and reach its full yield potential.
