Overview
Microchloa abyssinica Desv. is a small herbaceous plant that belongs to the Poaceae family. This plant species is an acceptable host for Haemonchus contortus and Teladorsagia circumcincta, which are two common nematodes that cause parasitic infections in sheep and goats in the Ethiopian Highlands.
Origin and Distribution
Microchloa abyssinica Desv. is commonly found growing in Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, and Tanzania. This plant species typically grows in disturbed areas such as roadsides, fields, and pastures.
Common Names
Microchloa abyssinica Desv. is commonly known in English as Abyssinian micrograss. In Ethiopia, it is known as "Kotecha" in the Amharic language.
Uses
Microchloa abyssinica Desv. has a few uses in traditional medicine. The Amharic-speaking people of Ethiopia have been known to use the plant to treat stomach problems such as indigestion and stomach ulcers. It is also used to treat coughs and colds.
Appearance
Microchloa abyssinica Desv. grows as a small and narrow herb, with dark green leaves that are evenly distributed along its stem. Its leaves are thin and flat, with pointed tips that measure about 3cm in length. The plant typically grows to about 20 cm in height and 20 cm in diameter, and it has a shallow root system with multiple branching stems.
Light Requirements:
Microchloa abyssinica Desv. grows best under full sunlight exposure. It requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight every day. Inadequate light may hinder the plant's growth and development.
Temperature Requirements:
Microchloa abyssinica Desv. thrives in warm and hot temperatures. The ideal temperature range for its growth is 20-30°C. It can tolerate high temperature up to 40°C but may experience a slower growth rate. The plant can also survive in temperatures as low as 10°C, but this may affect its reproductive capacity and overall growth.
Soil Requirements:
Microchloa abyssinica Desv. prefers well-drained soils with good aeration. It can grow in sandy to loamy soils with a pH range of 5-8. The plant thrives best in soil with high organic matter content. It can grow in both low and high soil fertility levels, but high fertility level soils may cause an increase in vegetative growth rather than reproductive growth.
Cultivation methods
Microchloa abyssinica Desv. can be grown by seeds, rhizomes or stem cuttings. It prefers dry climates and thrives in sandy or rocky soils. The plant can be grown in containers or directly on the ground. When planting, create holes that are twice the size of the root ball and ensure the plant is placed at the same level as it was in the previous container to prevent water accumulation around the stem.
Watering needs
Microchloa abyssinica Desv. is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering once established. Avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot. Water the plant deeply once a week during hot and dry weather conditions. In containers, the frequency of watering may be higher due to the limited space and drainage.
Fertilization
Microchloa abyssinica Desv. requires little fertilization as it can obtain adequate nutrients from the soil. Apply a slow-release fertilizer in spring, or use a liquid fertilizer monthly during growth periods. Avoid fertilizing during winter as the plant is dormant and not actively growing.
Pruning
Microchloa abyssinica Desv. requires minimal pruning. Cut back any yellow or brown leaves or stems to promote healthy growth. If the plant becomes too dense, trim down the stems by one-third in early spring. Avoid pruning during winter as it can harm the plant's growth and increase the risk of disease.
Propagation of Microchloa abyssinica Desv.
Microchloa abyssinica Desv. can be propagated via seeds or vegetative means such as tillers or splitting roots. The following methods are commonly used for propagation:
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Microchloa abyssinica Desv. can be collected from mature plants during the harvesting time. After collection, the seeds should be cleaned and dried for storage. To promote germination, the seeds can be soaked in water for 24 hours before planting. Sowing should be done in prepared beds with sandy soil. The seeds should be planted at a depth of 1-2 cm and covered with soil. Water the planted area regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Germination can be expected in 10-15 days.
Vegetative Propagation
Microchloa abyssinica Desv. can also be propagated through vegetative means. This can be done by transplanting tillers from mature plants or splitting roots. When transplanting tillers, it is important to carefully remove them from the mother plant and replant them in a prepared bed with sandy soil. For root splitting, the plant should be carefully dug up and the roots separated into individual sections, ensuring that each section has enough roots and shoots for successful transplantation. Both methods require regular watering to ensure the plant establishes itself.
Disease and Pest Management for Microchloa Abyssinica
Microchloa abyssinica Desv., commonly known as African Broomgrass, is a perennial grass native to Africa. This grass is used for grazing and as a forage crop. However, diseases and pests can affect the plant and reduce its yield. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Leaf Spot: This is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant. Symptoms include brown spots on the leaves, which gradually enlarge and coalesce, leading to the death of the leaf tissue. To manage this disease, remove and destroy severely infected leaves and avoid overhead irrigation. Fungicide application may also be necessary.
Root Rot: This is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant. Symptoms include stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and wilting of the plant. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering, provide good drainage, and remove severely infected plants. Fungicide application may also be necessary.
Common Pests
Armyworms: These are caterpillars that feed on the leaves and stem of the plant. Symptoms include ragged holes in the leaves and stem, and the presence of the caterpillars. To manage this pest, use biological control methods such as the release of natural enemies and the use of biopesticides. Chemical control should be a last resort.
Tsetse Fly: This is a biting fly that sucks the blood of animals. The fly is known to transmit diseases such as Sleeping Sickness. To manage this pest, use repellents to discourage the fly from coming close to the animals. Planting repellent plants such as Lantana camara may also be effective.
By following these disease and pest management practices, farmers can increase the yield of Microchloa abyssinica and improve the quality of forage available for their livestock.
