Description of Sporobolus schnellii A.Chev.
Sporobolus schnellii A.Chev. is a plant species belonging to the grass family (Poaceae). It is an endemic grass species in Nigeria and Cameroon, where it is commonly found growing in open savannas, along roadsides, and in rocky places.
Common Names
Sporobolus schnellii is locally known by several common names such as "guinea grass," "eastern dropseed," "schimmelbush," and "quickseed."
Appearance
This plant species is a perennial C4 grass that grows up to 120 cm tall. The stem is erect, robust, and cylindrical, with a diameter of about 3-10 mm. The leaves are alternate, linear, and flat, with a length of about 50-75 cm and a width of 3-7 mm. The inflorescence is a large, loose, and branching panicle with up to 30 branches. The spikelets are oval or round, about 1.5-2.5 mm long, and contain several florets. The plants have a deep root system, which makes them an excellent choice for erosion control and soil stabilization.
Uses
Sporobolus schnellii A.Chev. has several uses, including ornamental, forage, and as a medicinal plant. The grass is used as a decorative plant in landscaping because of its attractive foliage and panicles. It is an excellent forage for livestock and wildlife, especially during the dry season, as it is drought-tolerant and can withstand long periods of drought. It is also used in traditional medicine to treat diarrhea, gastrointestinal disorders, and to boost the immune system.
Growth Conditions for Sporobolus Schnellii A.Chev
Sporobolus schnellii A.Chev. is a perennial grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is commonly found in the highland regions of East Africa, particularly in Ethiopia and Kenya. While it is a hardy species, Sporobolus schnellii requires specific growth conditions for optimal growth and survival.
Light Requirements
Like most grasses, Sporobolus schnellii requires a significant amount of sunlight to grow well. It is an ideal species for sunny environments and requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight per day. Areas that receive partial shade may also support the growth of this plant, but it may not grow optimally in such conditions.
Temperature Requirements
Sporobolus schnellii is adapted to grow in highland regions and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, the plant's growth is optimal at temperatures between 15-20°C. Temperatures above 25°C can inhibit growth rate and may cause leaf wilting. The plant may also survive temperatures lower than 5°C, but frost can cause damage to leaves and stems.
Soil Requirements
For Sporobolus schnellii to thrive, it requires well-draining soils with adequate water-holding capacity. The plant grows well in loamy soils with high organic matter content. Sandy soils or soils that cannot hold moisture can adversely affect plant growth. A soil pH of 5.5-6.5 is optimal for the plant's growth and development.
Other Requirements
Sporobolus schnellii is a relatively drought-tolerant plant, but it requires adequate watering, especially during the initial stages of growth. Regular watering can help establish the plant's root system and promote faster development. Once established, the plant requires less watering but may require additional moisture during periods of extended drought. It is also best to prune the overgrowth during the plant's dormant periods to promote optimal growth.
Furthermore, Sporobolus schnellii does well in areas with low competition from other plants. Overcrowding can limit its growth, and regular weeding may be necessary to maintain optimal growth conditions.
Cultivation
Sporobolus schnellii A.Chev. is a hardy plant that can grow in many different soils and climates. However, it does best in well-draining soil and in areas that receive full sun. The plant can be propagated either by seed or division.
If sowing from seed, it is best to do so in the spring, as this will give the plant enough time to establish before the winter. Make sure to plant the seeds at a depth of no more than 1/4 inch in the soil, as the plant has a shallow root system.
When dividing an existing plant, it is best to do so in the spring or fall. Use a sharp knife or garden shears to cut the plant into smaller sections, making sure that each section has at least one or two shoots and a healthy root system.
Watering Needs
Although Sporobolus schnellii A.Chev. is a drought-resistant plant, it still requires regular watering to thrive. It is important to water the plant deeply once a week, rather than providing frequent shallow waterings. This will encourage the plant's roots to grow deeper into the soil, allowing it to become more self-sufficient.
It is also important to avoid watering the foliage, as this can increase the risk of disease. Instead, water the plant at its base. During hot and dry periods, you may need to increase the frequency of watering to ensure the plant remains hydrated.
Fertilization
Sporobolus schnellii A.Chev. does not require much fertilizer, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help encourage growth. Use a fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, and apply it according to the manufacturer's instructions.
It is important not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive growth and can make the plant more susceptible to disease and insect infestation.
Pruning
Sporobolus schnellii A.Chev. requires very little pruning, as it has a natural and attractive shape. However, if you wish to keep the plant more compact, shaping it in the early spring can help encourage fuller growth. Use clean, sharp shears to make clean cuts, and avoid pruning more than one-third of the plant's growth in a single season.
Propagation of Sporobolus Schnellii A. Chev.
Sporobolus Schnellii A. Chev. can be easily propagated using seeds or vegetative cuttings.
Propagation through Seeds
The plant's seeds can be collected during autumn, after the plant matures. The seeds can be directly planted in a well-prepared field, or they can be stored.
For storing seeds, they must be cleaned and dried first. After that, they can be placed in airtight containers, away from moisture and light. Seeds stored in these conditions can last up to two years.
Before planting, the seeds must be scarified, or their hard coat must be broken. This can be done by soaking them in hot water, or by chipping off a small piece of the coat using a sharp knife or a file. Soaking times and chipping methods vary depending on seed maturity, species, and variety.
Once scarified, the seeds can be planted in trays filled with a mixture of loamy soil, sand, and peat moss. The trays must be kept in a sunny area, with warm temperature, and well-draining soil. The seeds should germinate in one to three weeks, depending on the growing conditions. Seedlings must be regularly watered and transplanted once they reach 6 to 8 weeks of age or have grown to 2-3 inches in height.
Propagation through Vegetative Cuttings
Varieties of Sporobolus Schnellii A. Chev. can also be propagated through vegetative cuttings. This method involves cutting part of the plant's stem, and replanting it in a new area.
To propagate through cuttings, choose a healthy plant, and cut a 4-6 inch piece of the stem. Remove all leaves except for two at the top, and dip the cutting in a rooting hormone.
The cutting can now be planted in a pot filled with a mixture of sand and peat, or directly in the field. Keep the soil moist and make sure it is well-draining. The cutting should root in four to six weeks.
It's important to mist the cutting regularly to keep it moist and stay in a shaded area until established. Once established, the young plants can be transferred into bigger containers or directly to open fields.
Disease Management
Sporobolus schnellii A.Chev. is generally considered to be a hardy and disease-resistant plant. However, it can still be susceptible to a few diseases that can affect its growth and productivity.
One common disease that affects Sporobolus schnellii is leaf spot, which is caused by the fungus Bipolaris spicifera. This disease causes small, dark spots to form on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, it is essential to remove and destroy infected plant debris and ensure that the plant is not overcrowded. Fungicides can also be used as a preventive measure.
Another disease that affects Sporobolus schnellii is rust, which is caused by the fungus Puccinia sp. This disease causes rusty-orange discoloration and spore formation on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, it is essential to remove and destroy infected plant debris and provide adequate soil drainage to prevent waterlogging. Fungicides can also be used as a preventive measure.
Pest Management
Like most plants, Sporobolus schnellii A.Chev. can also be susceptible to pest attacks. Here are some common pests that can affect this plant.
The most common pest that affects Sporobolus schnellii is the grasshopper. These pests can cause significant damage to the plant by feeding on the leaves. To manage grasshopper infestations, it is essential to employ mechanical methods, such as picking them off by hand or using sticky traps. Pesticides can also be used but should be used with caution as they can harm beneficial insects.
Another common pest that affects this plant is the spider mite. These pests cause yellowing and bronzing of the leaves and can lead to stunted growth and reduced productivity. To manage spider mite infestations, it is essential to encourage beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, which feed on the mites. Pesticides can also be used as a preventive measure if the infestation is severe.
Finally, armyworms can also be a significant pest for Sporobolus schnellii. These pests cause significant damage to the plant by feeding on the leaves and stems. To manage armyworm infestations, it is essential to remove and destroy infected plant debris and use pesticides as a preventive measure if the infestation is severe.
