Origin and Common Names
Eragrostis turgida, also known as Schumach. De Wild & Dur. is a grass species that belongs to the family Poaceae. This plant is commonly found in Africa, specifically in countries such as Cameroon, Ghana, Nigeria, and Uganda. E. turgida is known by various names such as stinking lovegrass, gongoni, and calliandra.
Appearance
The stem of Eragrostis turgida can grow up to 60 cm tall and possesses a dense panicle with a length of 5-10 cm. Its leaf blade is about 5-20 cm long and 2-10 mm wide, while its lignified root system can reach a depth of 120 cm. The plant has a distinctive diurnal rhythm, with its leaves curling up during the day and expanding at night. Its appearance can be described as a mound of leaves and flowering stems.
Uses
Eragrostis turgida has some medicinal uses, specifically as a treatment for malaria. The plant's roots have been used traditionally to treat rheumatism, gonorrhea, and as an antipyretic and vermifuge. In Cameroon, the plant is used as fodder for sheep and goats, and its seeds are considered to be a rich source of protein and oil. In addition to its medicinal and nutritional benefits, the plant is also used as an ornamental grass in gardens and landscapes.
Light Requirements:
Eragrostis turgida requires full sun exposure to grow properly. It is adapted to full sunlight and can tolerate high light intensity. However, it can also grow in partially shaded conditions but may not achieve its full potential growth.
Temperature Needs:
Eragrostis turgida grows best in warm temperatures within the range of 20-35°C. It is a warm-season grass and does not tolerate frost or cold temperatures. It is most commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions where the temperatures are warm throughout the year.
Soil Requirements:
Eragrostis turgida grows best in well-drained soils with a pH range between 6.0 and 8.5. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it performs best in soils with medium texture and good moisture-holding capacity. The plant can also tolerate soils with low fertility and high salinity levels.
Cultivation methods
Eragrostis turgida (Schumach.) De Wild., commonly known as Tufted Lovegrass, is a perennial plant that grows best in full sun and well-draining soil. To cultivate this plant, it is recommended to sow the seeds in the spring or fall, just after the last frost has passed, at a depth of 1/8 inch. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and keep them moist until germination.
Watering needs
During the first few weeks, water Eragrostis turgida regularly to keep the soil moist until the seedlings are established. Afterward, you can reduce watering to once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch. Lovegrass is adaptable and can withstand periods of drought, but it grows best when the soil is consistently moist.
Fertilization
Fertilization is not necessary for Eragrostis turgida. However, if you want to enhance growth and boost flowering, you can apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer once or twice a year in the spring and fall. Remember to follow the instructions on the package carefully and water the plant after fertilization to prevent burning or damage to the roots.
Pruning
Eragrostis turgida does not require much pruning. However, if you notice any dead or damaged leaves or stems, remove them with sterilized shears or scissors to prevent the spread of diseases. You can deadhead the plants throughout the growing season by cutting back the spent flowers to encourage additional blooms.
Propagation of Eragrostis Turgida
Eragrostis turgida, commonly referred to as weeping lovegrass, is a warm-season grass native to Africa. It is a popular landscaping and forage plant in the United States.
Propagation Methods
Eragrostis turgida can be propagated using both sexual and asexual methods.
Sexual Propagation
Sexual propagation involves the use of seeds to grow new plants. To propagate Eragrostis turgida sexually, the seeds need to be collected from mature plants. The seeds should be planted at a depth of 1/4 inch in well-draining soil. Germination occurs within 7 to 14 days under optimal conditions.
Asexual Propagation
Asexual propagation involves the use of plant parts to grow new plants. In the case of Eragrostis turgida, this method is achieved through division.
To propagate Eragrostis turgida through division, an established plant should be dug up carefully. The plant should then be divided into several smaller sections, ensuring that each section has roots and viable plant parts. These divisions can be replanted into well-draining soil to continue growing.
With proper care, the new plants will establish rapidly and begin to develop a robust root system.
Overall, Eragrostis turgida can be propagated effectively using either sexual or asexual methods, providing landscapers and commercial growers with a variety of options when cultivating this desirable warm-season grass.
Disease Management
Eragrostis turgida is susceptible to various types of diseases including leaf and stem blights, rusts, and viruses. The most common disease affecting this plant is leaf spot caused by the fungus Cercospora eragrostidis. This disease is characterized by the formation of small brown or black spots on leaves which later enlarge and join to form large patches. Infected leaves eventually become dry and fall off the plant.
To manage Cercospora leaf spot, it is advisable to remove and destroy all infected plant debris and to maintain good sanitary practices. Fungicides such as copper-based products and chlorothalonil can also be used to manage the disease. However, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for safe and effective use of these products.
Pest Management
Common pests that can affect Eragrostis turgida include grasshoppers, spider mites, and aphids. Grasshoppers are known to cause significant damage to the plant by feeding on leaves, stems, and seed heads. Spider mites, on the other hand, are tiny pests that suck sap from the plant, causing leaves to turn yellow and eventually die. Aphids, on the other hand, can transmit viruses to the plant, causing stunted growth and reduced yield.
To manage grasshoppers, it is recommended to use physical barriers such as netting or screens to prevent them from reaching the plant. In addition, insecticides such as carbaryl, malathion, and permethrin can be used to control grasshopper populations. For spider mites and aphids, insecticidal soaps and oils can be used to suffocate and control the pests. Alternatively, beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings can be introduced to feed on aphids and other pests.
