Overview
Melinis bertlingii Mez, also known as African Melinis, is a flowering plant species belonging to the Poaceae family. It is native to southern and eastern Africa and is classified as a warm-season grass.
Common Names
African Melinis is known by several common names including Natal red top, red top grass, and Namib buffelgrass.
General Appearance
African Melinis is a densely tufted perennial grass species that can grow up to 3 feet in height. The stem is slender and hairy, while the leaves are narrow and sharply pointed. The flowering spikes are bristly and red-purple in color.
Uses
African Melinis is commonly used as a forage crop for livestock due to its high quality and palatability. It is also used in soil conservation and erosion control efforts because of its extensive root system. In addition, African Melinis is considered an ornamental plant and is cultivated for its attractive flowering spikes.
Light Requirements
The plant Melinis bertlingii Mez grows best in bright and direct sunlight. It is recommended to place it in an area where it can get at least six hours of sunlight per day. This plant can tolerate a little bit of shade, but too much shade can cause it not to flower.
Temperature Requirements
The plant Melinis bertlingii Mez prefers warm and humid conditions. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it grows best when the temperature is between 27-30°C during the day and not below 20°C at night. Temperatures lower than 15°C can be detrimental to the growth of this plant.
Soil Requirements
Melinis bertlingii Mez thrives in well-draining soils that have a slightly acidic to neutral pH (around 6.0 -7.0). It is best to use a mixture of loam, sand, and organic matter to improve soil drainage and fertility. It is important to avoid waterlogged soils that can cause root rot or fungal diseases.
Cultivation Methods for Melinis bertlingii Mez
Melinis bertlingii Mez requires full sunlight exposure, and hence it should be planted where it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight. Planting can be done manually in rows or by broadcasting. Plants should be planted 1-2 cm deep and 20-30 cm apart.
Watering Needs for Melinis bertlingii Mez
Melinis bertlingii Mez prefers well-drained soil and requires regular watering, especially during dry seasons. Watering should be done in the early mornings or late evenings to minimize evaporation. The plant is drought-tolerant, but this doesn't mean it should be left to dry out. Overwatering should be avoided to reduce the risk of root rot.
Fertilization for Melinis bertlingii Mez
Melinis bertlingii Mez requires regular applications of nitrogen fertilizer. A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 can be applied monthly during the growing season. Organic fertilizers such as compost and manure can also be used as a supplement.
Pruning for Melinis bertlingii Mez
Melinis bertlingii Mez doesn't require frequent pruning, but deadheading can be done to improve its appearance. Deadheading is the removal of spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. It also helps to prevent the plant from self-seeding and spreading out of control. Pruning can be done during the dormancy period to remove any damaged or diseased stems.
Propagation of Melinis bertlingii Mez
Melinis perennis is propagated by seed, division, or stem cuttings.
Propagation by Seed
The seeds are collected when the spikelets are yellow and starting to turn brown. Collect the entire spikelet and dry it before threshing it to separate the seeds. Broadcast the seeds on a seedbed of prepared soil. Water the seedbed regularly, but do not allow it to become waterlogged. When the seedlings have four leaves, transplant them to individual pots or to the field, spacing them 10 to 12 inches apart.
Propagation by Division
The plant can be propagated by division, but should only be done when the clumps become crowded. To divide the clumps, dig out the clump and gently separate it into parts using a spade or a sharp knife. Replant the sections in their new location immediately. Keep the new plants well watered, especially during hot, dry weather.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
The plant can also be propagated by stem cuttings, taken in the late spring or summer. Cuttings should be approximately six inches long and should be made from young, green twigs. Plant the cuttings in a well-draining, sandy loam soil mix, and keep them moist and in partial shade. When the cuttings have rooted, transplant them into individual pots or to the field, spacing them 10 to 12 inches apart.
Disease Management
Melinis bertlingii Mez is prone to various diseases that affect its growth and development. The common diseases include fungal infections such as leaf spot, rust, and powdery mildew. These diseases manifest as yellowing of leaves, the presence of powdery or rust-colored spots on the leaves, and distorted growth. To manage these diseases, it is essential to practice good hygiene by removing infected plant parts, watering the plants in the morning, and avoiding wetting the leaves. Fungicides such as sulfur and copper-based products can also be used to control the spread of these diseases.
Pest Management
Melinis bertlingii Mez is also prone to pest attacks, which can cause significant damage to the plant. Common pests that attack this plant include mealybugs, aphids, and caterpillars. These pests feed on the leaves, stems, and flowers, leading to stunted growth and even death of the plant. To manage these pests, it is essential to use insecticides such as neem oil or pyrethrin-based products. It is also advisable to practice good hygiene by removing any dead or diseased plant parts and avoiding over-fertilization, as this can attract pests.
