Origin
Eragrostis schweinfurthii Chiov. var. schweinfurthii belongs to the family Poaceae and is native to tropical and southern Africa.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as love grass or Sudan lovegrass. In some parts of Africa, it is called "ngonamombe" in Zimbabwe or "fulu" in Malawi.
Uses
Eragrostis schweinfurthii Chiov. var. schweinfurthii has several uses. In Africa, it is used for foraging purposes as it is considered a highly nutritive feed for livestock. The plant's seeds are edible and are used to make flour, porridge, and beer in some African cultures. The roots and leaves are also used for medicinal purposes to treat various ailments such as stomach aches, fever, and dysentery.
General Appearance
The Eragrostis schweinfurthii Chiov. var. schweinfurthii is a perennial grass that can grow up to a height of 1.5 meters. It has a branching stem that is usually green or purple in color. The leaves are linear, flat, and can grow up to 60 cm long and 5 mm wide. The inflorescence of the plant is a panicle that is 10-30 cm long and is composed of several spikelets that produce small, shiny seeds.
Light Requirements
Eragrostis schweinfurthii Chiov. var. schweinfurthii requires abundant sunlight to grow. It thrives when placed in a location with full sun exposure. The minimum light level required for its growth is six hours per day. Therefore, it should be planted in an open area where there are no obstructions that may block sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Temperate to subtropical climates are the most suitable for the growth and development of E.schweinfurthii. It grows best when grown under warm to hot temperatures. The optimal temperature range is between 25°C to 30°C. The plant cannot tolerate frost and requires protection during winter periods when the weather is cold. It is advisable to grow E.schweinfurthii during warmer seasons, such as spring and summer.
Soil Requirements
E.schweinfurthii grows well in well-drained, sandy soils with good aeration that are rich in humus. The soil should be kept moist but should not be waterlogged. The preferred soil pH range is between 6-7.8. The plant should be grown on fertile soils that are rich in organic matter and nutrients. It is advisable to add organic matter, fertilizers, and compost to the soil before planting to improve soil fertility and enhance plant growth.
Cultivation methods
Eragrostis schweinfurthii Chiov. var. schweinfurthii is a perennial grass plant that prefers warm climates. It is best grown in well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The plant is propagated through seeds, which should be sown during the rainy season. The seeds need to be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist until they germinate, which usually takes about two weeks.
Watering needs
The plant requires regular watering, especially during dry spells. However, it is essential to avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. During the rainy season, the plant can do well with natural rainfall. Still, during the dry season, it may require watering at least once a week.
Fertilization
The plant does not require fertilizer to thrive. However, if you would like to fertilize it, it is recommended to use organic fertilizer. This application should be done during the rainy season when the plant is actively growing.
Pruning
Eragrostis schweinfurthii Chiov. var. schweinfurthii is a low maintenance plant that does not require a lot of pruning. However, to maintain its compact size, you can trim back any dead or damaged leaves. It is also essential to remove any spent flower stems, which may appear unsightly.
Propagation
Eragrostis schweinfurthii Chiov. var. schweinfurthii can be propagated using seeds, stem cuttings, and division.
Seeds
The plant produces seeds which can be used for propagation. The seeds can be sown directly in the soil or in containers. Seeds sown in containers should be covered with a thin layer of soil. The soil should be kept moist until the seeds germinate.
Stem cuttings
Eragrostis schweinfurthii Chiov. var. schweinfurthii can also be propagated using stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from the plant in the spring or early summer. The cuttings should be about 6 inches long and should be taken from new growth.
The cuttings should be planted in a well-drained soil mix. The soil should be kept moist until the cuttings have rooted. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Division
Eragrostis schweinfurthii Chiov. var. schweinfurthii can also be propagated using division. The plant should be divided in the spring or early summer. The plant should be lifted from the ground and carefully separated into smaller sections.
Each section should have a good root system and some new growth. The sections can then be planted in their permanent location. The soil should be kept moist until the plant becomes established.
Disease Management for Eragrostis schweinfurthii Chiov. var. schweinfurthii
Like any other plant, Eragrostis schweinfurthii Chiov. var. schweinfurthii is vulnerable to various diseases. The most common diseases that may affect the plant include:
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that affects the plant's foliage. You can manage it by removing the infected leaves and spraying the plant with a fungicide. Ensure that you follow the instructions carefully when applying the fungicide.
Root Rot
Root rot is a fungal disease caused by overwatering or poorly-draining soil. To manage root rot, ensure that your plant is planted in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering the plant.
Pest Management for Eragrostis schweinfurthii Chiov. var. schweinfurthii
The plant is not exempt from pest attacks. Some common pests that may affect the plant include:
Grasshoppers
Grasshoppers are common pests that may cause damage to the plant by feeding on the leaves. You can manage grasshoppers by manually removing them from the plant or by using insecticides.
Spider Mites
Spider mites thrive in hot and dry conditions, and they suck the sap out of the leaves, causing discoloration. Spider mites can be managed by spraying the plant with a miticide.
By managing diseases and pests in Eragrostis schweinfurthii Chiov. var. schweinfurthii, you can help maintain the plant's health and ensure it grows optimally.
