Overview
Paspalum platyculmus Thouars ex Nees, also known as broadleaf crowngrass, is a species of grass that belongs to the family Poaceae. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, including Madagascar and the Mascarenes.Common Names
Broadleaf crowngrass is commonly known by several other names, including kikuyu grass, Congo grass, and broadleaf carpet grass.Appearance
This plant is a sprawling perennial grass that can grow up to 1 m tall. It has broad, flat leaves that are about 10 cm long and 2 cm wide, with a pale green color. The inflorescence of the plant is dense and consists of several spikelets that form at the tip of the stem.Uses
Broadleaf crowngrass is primarily used for grazing, particularly in pastures where soils are acid and poorly drained. It is also used for erosion control, especially in sloping areas prone to soil erosion. Additionally, it can be used as a turfgrass or as an ornamental grass in landscaping. In some regions of Africa, the plant is also used in traditional medicine for treating various digestive ailments and snakebites.Light Requirements
Paspalum platyculmus requires full sun to partial shade for optimum growth. It can tolerate high levels of sunlight but may require some shading in extremely hot climates. Plants grown in partial shade may have weaker stems and less vigorous growth than those grown in full sun.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a range of temperatures, but optimal growth is achieved at temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. Temperatures below 10°C can slow growth and may eventually kill the plant. In areas with colder climates, the plant can be grown as an annual or in a greenhouse to protect it from the cold.
Soil Requirements
Paspalum platyculmus prefers well-draining soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (between 6.0 and 7.0). It can tolerate a variety of soil types, including sandy and clay soils, but it grows best in loamy soils with high organic content. The plant does not tolerate waterlogging or soil that is too wet, which can cause root rot and other diseases.
Cultivation methods
Paspalum platyculmus, also known as broad-leaved paspalum, is an ornamental grass that can be grown in a variety of soil types and conditions. This plant prefers a warm climate and can withstand some drought conditions. It can be propagated via seeds, division, or stem cuttings. When sowing seeds, it is recommended to scarify the seeds to help with germination. For division, it is suggested to do it during the growing season when the grass is active.Watering needs
Paspalum platyculmus requires moderate watering, and it is essential to ensure that the soil does not dry out completely. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is recommended to water the plant deeply but infrequently. During the hottest months, the plant may need more frequent watering.Fertilization
This ornamental grass prefers a balanced fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen. Fertilization can be done in the early spring and midsummer to promote vigorous growth and strong roots. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive leaf growth and less flowering.Pruning
Paspalum platyculmus does not require much pruning, except to remove damaged or dead leaves. Pruning can be done in the early spring or late fall. It is recommended to prune the plant to about 4-6 inches above the ground. This helps to promote healthy growth and maintain the plant's desired shape. Regularly removing old and damaged leaves will also help the plant to stay healthy.Propagation of Paspalum platyculmus
Paspalum platyculmus Thouars ex Nees, commonly known as Broadleaf paspalum, can be propagated through various methods:
Seed Propagation
Seeds harvested from the parent plant can be used for propagation. The seeds need to be cleaned and dried before storage. Before planting, the seeds must be stratified at a temperature of 5°C for at least two weeks. After stratification, the seeds can be sown directly into the soil or in containers. Ideally, a well-draining soil mix with peat and perlite should be used for container planting. Germination occurs within 10-14 days, and the seedlings should be kept moist but not over-watered.
Division
Broadleaf paspalum can also be propagated through division. Mature plants can be dug up and divided into smaller sections, each with a good root system. The divisions can be replanted directly into the soil. Divisions should be planted at the same depth as the parent plant and kept well-watered for the first few weeks.
Stolon Propagation
Broadleaf paspalum can propagate through stolons which are above-ground stems that can produce new plants. The stolons can be cut with a sharp, clean knife from the parent plant and replanted as individual plants in their suitable environments. It is essential to ensure that the stolons have a few nodes from where the roots will grow, and they are well watered to promote early growth of new roots in the new environment.
The propagation method chosen will depend on the availability of resources such as time and equipment. Regardless of the method chosen, it is important to ensure that the resulting plants are healthy and grown in suitable conditions to promote proper growth and development.
Disease Management
The Paspalum platyculmus is susceptible to various diseases that can lead to reduced productivity and even death of the plant. Here are some of the common diseases and ways to manage them:
Leaf spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant, causing circular brown spots with yellow halos. To manage this disease, proper sanitation practices should be maintained, such as removing and destroying infected leaves. Fungicides can also be applied to control the disease.
Anthracnose
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes sunken lesions on stems, leaves, and fruits. The lesions appear dark brown with yellow halos. To manage anthracnose, pruning and removing infected tissues can help control the spread of the disease. Application of fungicides also helps to reduce the spread of anthracnose.
Rust
Rust is a fungal disease characterized by yellow-orange pustules on the leaves and stem of the plant. It can be managed by practicing crop rotation to prevent the build-up of rust spores in the soil. Overhead irrigation should also be avoided, and fungicides applied to control the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Pests can cause significant damage to the Paspalum platyculmus, affecting its productivity and health. Here are some common pests and ways to manage them:
Sod webworm
The sod webworm is a caterpillar that feeds on the leaves of the plant, causing brown patches. To manage the sod webworm, proper mowing practices should be maintained, such as raising the mower height of the grass. Applying insecticides when the larvae are active can also help control the pest.
Armyworm
The armyworm is another type of caterpillar that feeds on the leaves of the plant, causing extensive damage to the grass. To manage the pest, cultural control practices such as proper mowing and irrigation practices can be employed. Insecticides can also be applied once the larvae are active to control the infestation.
Mole crickets
Mole crickets are burrowing insects that feed on the roots of the plant, causing wilting and death of the grass. To control mole crickets, cultural practices such as dethatching the soil and applying insecticides can help control the infestation.
