Origin
Melinis minutiflora P.Beauv. forma aristata Chiov. is an exotic, invasive grass species native to Africa, specifically East and Southern Africa.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as molasses grass, sweet veldt grass, and Natal red top.
Appearance
Melinis minutiflora P.Beauv. forma aristata Chiov. is a perennial grass species that grows up to 1.5 meters tall. It has slender stems that can reach up to 4mm in diameter. The leaves of this grass are green, narrow, and long, measuring up to 30cm in length and usually have hairy edges. The flowers of this grass are borne on spikelets, which are arranged in clusters or panicles up to 30cm long. The spikelets have a reddish hue, making them easy to distinguish from other grass species.
Uses
The molasses grass is primarily used for grazing by animals because it is highly nutritious. It is also used for erosion control, as it has a deep root system that helps bind the soil. Additionally, this grass is used in ornamental gardening due to its attractive appearance.
Light requirements
Melinis minutiflora P.Beauv. forma aristata Chiov. prefers full sun to partial shade for growth. It requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. Insufficient sunlight may adversely affect growth and flowering.
Temperature requirements
Optimal temperature range for Melinis minutiflora P.Beauv. forma aristata Chiov. growth is between 20°C to 30°C. The plant does not tolerate extreme temperatures, especially frost.
Soil requirements
The plant thrives best in well-draining, loamy soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. It does not tolerate waterlogging or saline soils that impede root growth. Melinis minutiflora P.Beauv. forma aristata Chiov. can grow in a wide range of soil textures, from sandy to clay loam, but prefers fertile soils with adequate nutrients to support its growth.
Cultivation of Melinis minutiflora P.Beauv. forma aristata Chiov.
Melinis minutiflora P.Beauv. forma aristata Chiov. is a perennial grass that can be grown year-round in regions with warm temperatures. This plant prefers well-drained soil, and it is adapted to acidic and neutral soils with a pH range of 4.5-7.5. It can tolerate dry conditions and is resistant to pests and diseases.
Watering Needs
Watering schedules for Melinis minutiflora P.Beauv. forma aristata Chiov. will depend on the climate and the growth stage of the plant. During the establishment phase, the plant needs to be watered regularly to ensure adequate moisture for the roots to establish. After the establishment phase, the plant can be watered infrequently, as it is drought-tolerant. In dry seasons, however, the plant may require additional watering.
Fertilization
Proper fertilization is essential for the growth of Melinis minutiflora P.Beauv. forma aristata Chiov. The plant responds well to nitrogen fertilizer, which can be applied annually at a rate of 30-40 kg per hectare. Other essential nutrients, such as phosphorus and potassium, can also be applied to improve plant growth. It is essential to carry out soil tests before applying any fertilizer to ensure adequate nutrient supply to the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is not a critical process for Melinis minutiflora P.Beauv. forma aristata Chiov. However, it is necessary to control the height of the plant if it grows taller than desired. Mowing or cutting back the plant to about 10-15 cm above the ground can help control the height and promote thicker foliage. The best time to prune the plant is during the dormant season or before new growth appears.
Propagation of Melinis minutiflora P.Beauv. forma aristata Chiov.
Melinis minutiflora P.Beauv. forma aristata Chiov., commonly known as molasses grass, is propagated through both sexual and asexual methods. The plant is a warm-season perennial grass that is native to Africa and commonly grown in tropical and subtropical regions for forage and soil conservation purposes.
Sexual Propagation
Sexual propagation of molasses grass is through seed. The plant produces prolific amounts of seeds, and they can be collected once matured and sown directly or stored for future planting. Before sowing, the seed should be cleaned to remove any debris and screened to ensure uniform size and purity. The seeds can be planted on well-prepared seedbeds, either by broadcasting or drilling, and then covered with a shallow layer of soil.
Asexual Propagation
Asexual propagation of molasses grass is through vegetative means, such as stolon, rhizome, and sod. This method is suitable for the plant because of its ability to form a mat of interwoven genotypes with a high potential for rooting and establishment. Stolons and rhizomes can be harvested from existing plants and planted directly, while sods can be cut into smaller pieces and planted. The planting site must have good soil preparation and adequate moisture for the new plants to establish.
Disease Management
Melinis minutiflora is susceptible to fungal infections such as leaf spots caused by Bipolaris setariae and Cercospora fusimaculans. These diseases can be managed by controlling the moisture content of the soil and avoiding overhead watering. Early detection and removal of infected leaves can also help control the spread of the disease. Fungicides such as copper-based fungicides or systemic fungicides can also be applied to manage these diseases.
Another disease that can affect Melinis minutiflora is rust, caused by the fungus Puccinia melini. Rust can cause orange or yellowish pustules on leaves. To manage rust, it is necessary to remove the infected leaves and spray the plant with a fungicide such as chlorothalonil.
Pest Management
The most common pests that can affect Melinis minutiflora are grasshoppers, mites, and armyworms. Grasshoppers can be controlled by using insecticides such as pyrethroids. Mites can be controlled by keeping the plant foliage clean and well-irrigated and spraying with an appropriate miticide. Armyworms can be controlled by plowing the field and burying the infested vegetation in the soil.
Another pest that can affect Melinis minutiflora is the stem borer, Coniesta ignefusalis. This pest can cause extensive damage to the plant, and its infestation can be difficult to detect. Infested stems should be cut and destroyed to prevent further damage to the plant. Pesticides such as carbaryl and permethrin can also be applied to manage stem borers.
