Overview of Eleusine somalensis Hack.
Eleusine somalensis Hack. is a perennial grass species that belongs to the family Poaceae. It is commonly known as Somali Crowfoot Grass, and is native to Somalia in East Africa.
General Appearance
The plant has a tufted growth habit, with stems that grow up to 70 cm in height. The leaves are linear, with a bluish-green coloration, and can grow up to 30 cm in length and 5 mm in width. The inflorescence is a panicle that is up to 20 cm long, and bears spikelets that are up to 6.5 mm long.
Common names
Eleusine somalensis Hack. is commonly known as Somali Crowfoot Grass, as well as other names such as Somali Finger Grass and Elephant Grass.
Uses
Eleusine somalensis Hack. is primarily used for forage and grazing. It is known to be tolerant to drought and can grow well in areas with low rainfall. The plant is also used for soil stabilization, erosion control, and as a cover crop. Additionally, some traditional medicinal uses have been reported, such as treating skin infections and burns, as well as gastrointestinal disorders.
Light Requirements
Eleusine somalensis is a highly adaptable plant that can thrive in both full sun and partial shade. However, it is best to provide the plant with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to promote healthy growth and development.
Temperature Requirements
Being a warm-season grass, Eleusine somalensis thrives in warm temperatures between 80°F and 90°F (27°C to 32°C). The plant also requires a minimum temperature of 60°F (15°C) to establish and grow optimally.
Soil Requirements
Eleusine somalensis prefers well-drained, loamy soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter, as it helps to retain moisture and nutrients needed for the plant's growth. The plant can also grow well in sandy soils that drain well.
It is important to note that the plant can tolerate poor soil conditions and can grow in a wide range of soil types, including clay soils. However, the plant may not thrive as well in these conditions and may require additional fertilization and irrigation to compensate for the soil's deficiencies.
Cultivation Methods
Most commonly, Eleusine somalensis Hack. is cultivated by the seed. It is best to directly sow the seeds in the field or garden beds. The preferred time for sowing is during the rainy season or when the temperature is optimal for germination. Prior to planting, loosen the soil to a depth of at least 6 inches to promote healthy root system development and apply organic matter to improve soil fertility.
Watering Needs
Eleusine somalensis Hack. prefers moist soil. Water the plant regularly, especially during the dry season when the soil tends to dry up quickly. Watering should be done in the morning or late afternoon to avoid water evaporation during the day. Overwatering may lead to root rot, so ensure that the soil is well-drained and not waterlogged.
Fertilization
Eleusine somalensis Hack. is not a heavy feeder. Fertilization is only necessary when the soil is severely depleted of nutrients or when the plant shows signs of nutrient deficiency. A balanced fertilizer with a higher percentage of nitrogen content can be added to the soil. Too much fertilizer may lead to excessive vegetative growth with low seed production.
Pruning
Eleusine somalensis Hack. does not require pruning except for the removal of dead or diseased leaves and stems. It is important to keep the plant clean and remove weeds that may compete for nutrients with the plant. Overcrowding may reduce seed production, so thin overcrowded plants to provide enough space for growth and development.
Propagation of Eleusine somalensis Hack.
Eleusine somalensis Hack. can be propagated through both vegetative and sexual methods.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of Eleusine somalensis Hack. can be done through stem cuttings. Select healthy stems and cut them into 4-6 inch lengths. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and place the cutting in a warm, bright location. In a few weeks, new roots will start to develop, and the cutting can be transplanted into a larger pot or outdoors in the garden.
Sexual Propagation
Propagation of Eleusine somalensis Hack. through sexual means requires proper seed collection and germination. The plant produces seed heads that are made of spikelets, each containing one grain. Wait for the seed heads to turn yellow, and then collect them. Remove the seeds from the spikelets and clean them. Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours, and then plant them in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a bright, warm location. The seeds should germinate in around 10-14 days.
Disease and Pest Management of Eleusine somalensis Hack.
Eleusine somalensis Hack. is a hardy perennial grass that is resistant to various pests and diseases, but it can still be susceptible to some of these problems.
Common Diseases
E. somalensis can be susceptible to various fungal diseases, including leaf spots, rust, and smut. These diseases can lead to stunted growth, discoloration of leaves, or death of the plant.
To manage these diseases, it is essential to reduce the humidity and moisture around the plant. Avoid overhead watering and improve air circulation. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of these diseases. However, it is vital to follow the instructions on the fungicide label carefully.
Common Pests
Grasshoppers, caterpillars, and armyworms can be common pests that affect E. somalensis. These pests can cause extensive damage to the plant by feeding on the foliage, resulting in reduced yield and stunted plant growth.
To manage these pests, it is essential to monitor the plant carefully and take action at the first sign of infestation. Various insecticides are available in the market that can effectively control these pests. Introduce predators such as birds as natural pest control solutions.
In conclusion, E. somalensis is a hardy plant that can resist various pests and diseases. However, careful management practices such as proper watering, adequate air circulation, monitoring for pests, and using appropriate control measures can ensure a healthy and productive crop.
