Overview:
Panicum proliferum Lam. var. longijubatum Stapf, also known as "Long-Jubatum Panic Grass," is a plant species that belongs to the Poaceae (grass) family. It is an annual grass that grows in wetlands and margins of rice fields in tropical and subtropical regions.
Appearance:
The Long-Jubatum Panic Grass can grow up to 2 meters tall, with stems that are smooth and robust. The leaves are flat and can grow up to 40 cm long and 25 mm wide. The inflorescence is a panicle that can grow up to 30 cm long, with numerous branches bearing spikelets that are up to 3 mm long.
Common Names:
Aside from "Long-Jubatum Panic Grass," this plant is also commonly known as "Kambag-ay" in the Philippines, "Capim colonião" in Brazil, and "Fei ma" in China.
Uses:
The Long-Jubatum Panic Grass has several uses, particularly in traditional medicine and food production. In some cultures, the plant's inflorescence is used to treat bronchitis and coughs. The leaves are also used as fodder for livestock, and the seeds are used in bird feed. Additionally, the plant's seeds can be ground into flour and used to make porridge or mixed with other grains to make bread.
Light Requirements
Panicum proliferum Lam. var. longijubatum Stapf requires full sunlight for proper growth and development. It cannot tolerate shady areas, and the lack of direct sunlight may result in stunted growth or poor crop yield. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that the plant receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in warm temperatures with a temperature range of 20-30°C being ideal for its growth. However, it can also tolerate a certain degree of heat and cold. Extreme temperatures above 35°C or below 10°C may cause stress and damage to the plant. Therefore, it is essential to protect the plant from extreme weather conditions by providing the necessary shade or insulation.
Soil Requirements
Panicum proliferum Lam. var. longijubatum Stapf prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6.5 and 7.5. The plant cannot tolerate waterlogged conditions, and the presence of excess moisture may lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. So, it is advisable to avoid heavy clay soils and waterlogging situations. Regular irrigation and drainage practices are essential to maintain optimum soil moisture and health of the plant.
Cultivation of Panicum proliferum Lam. var. longijubatum Stapf
Panicum proliferum Lam. var. longijubatum Stapf is a warm-season grass that grows well in tropical and subtropical climates. It can be grown from seeds or vegetative propagation. It is important to choose well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 5.5 and 7.5. Seeds should be planted at a depth of 1 to 2 cm and should be watered well after planting. The seedlings emerge within 7 to 10 days. The plants should be spaced 60 to 90 cm apart, and the rows should be 90 to 120 cm apart.
Watering Needs of Panicum proliferum Lam. var. longijubatum Stapf
Panicum proliferum Lam. var. longijubatum Stapf requires regular watering, especially during the initial growth period. The plants should be watered deeply once a week, especially during dry spells. However, it is important to avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot. The best time to water is in the morning, so that the plants have enough time to dry off before nightfall.
Fertilization of Panicum proliferum Lam. var. longijubatum Stapf
Panicum proliferum Lam. var. longijubatum Stapf requires moderate fertilization to achieve optimal growth and yield. A balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 15-15-15 should be applied at a rate of 50 to 60 kg/ha. The fertilizer should be applied in split doses, with the first application at planting and the second application four weeks later. The plants should be watered well after fertilization to ensure that the nutrients are absorbed by the roots.
Pruning of Panicum proliferum Lam. var. longijubatum Stapf
Panicum proliferum Lam. var. longijubatum Stapf does not require pruning. However, if it becomes too tall, it can be cut back to a height of 15 to 20 cm to encourage new growth. Dead, diseased, or damaged stems should be removed promptly to prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation of Panicum proliferum Lam. var. longijubatum Stapf
The Panicum proliferum Lam. var. longijubatum Stapf plant can be propagated through various methods such as seeds, stem cuttings, and division.
Propagation from seeds
Propagation from seeds is the easiest method to propagate Panicum proliferum Lam. var. longijubatum Stapf. The seeds can be sown in the soil in early spring to late summer. The soil should be well-drained and moist, and the seeds should be sown at a depth of 1cm. The seedlings would emerge in 2-3 weeks and can be transplanted in the desired location when it is large enough to handle.
Propagation from stem cuttings
Propagation from stem cuttings is another method that could be used to propagate Panicum proliferum Lam. var. longijubatum Stapf. The stem cuttings should be taken from a healthy plant during the growing season. The cutting should be about 10-12 cm long and should be cut from the bottom of the stem. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be planted in a well-drained potting mix. The pot should be kept in a warm and moist place. The rooting should occur in about 3-4 weeks, and once it does, it can be transplanted into a larger container.
Propagation through division
The Panicum proliferum Lam. var. longijubatum Stapf plant could also be propagated through division. The division method is best used in early spring when the plant begins to show signs of growth. The plant should be dug up and divided into smaller sections using a sharp and sterilized knife. Each section should have healthy roots and shoots. The divided sections should be planted in well-drained soil in a location that receives enough sunlight.
Disease and Pest Management for Panicum proliferum Lam. var. longijubatum Stapf
Panicum proliferum Lam. var. longijubatum Stapf is a hardy plant that can withstand many diseases and pests. However, some of the common diseases and pests that affect the plant are;
Diseases
1. Rust disease - Rust disease affects the leaves of the plant, causing yellow or orange patches on the leaves. Regular surveillance should be carried out to detect the disease early. Infected leaves should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease. Proper sanitation practices should be observed, and the affected area should be disinfected using a suitable fungicide.
2. Anthracnose - This disease is characterized by the appearance of irregular brown or black spots on the leaves and stems. The disease is caused by a fungus, and it spreads through the water. The infected parts should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease. Fungicides can also be used to control the disease, and proper drainage should be maintained to prevent waterlogging.
Pests
1. Cutworms - Cutworms are known to cut the stems of the plant, leading to the death of the entire plant. The use of cutworm collars or barriers around the base of the plants is an effective way of managing the pest.
2. Aphids - Aphids suck sap from the leaves of the plant, causing them to wilt and distort. The use of insecticidal soap or neem oil is an effective way of controlling the pest.
3. Grasshoppers - Grasshoppers eat the leaves and stems of the plant, leading to reduced growth. The use of row covers is an effective way of protecting the plant from the pest.
Having proper cultural practices such as proper watering, adequate fertilization and good drainage helps in creating optimal growing conditions for the plant, making it more resistant to pests and diseases. It is important to note that early detection and intervention plays an important role in the management of pests and diseases.
