Overview:
Syntherisma digitata, also known as the fingergrass, is a common grass species in the Poaceae family. It is native to the Americas and can be found in different regions such as Florida, Mexico, South America, and the Caribbean.
Appearance:
The plant has a slender cylindrical stem that can grow up to 1.2 m in height. It has long, narrow leaves with pointed tips that can range from 10-25 cm in length. The inflorescence of the plant is composed of racemes that branch from the main stem and can be up to 25 cm long. The flowers are small and greenish in color, and the seeds are ovoid and reddish-brown.
Common Names:
Syntherisma digitata commonly goes by the name of fingergrass, while in other regions, it is known by different names, such as digitgrass, swamp signalgrass, and tropical signalgrass.
Uses:
Fingergrass is mainly used as a forage crop for livestock. It is also considered a valuable grass species for soil conservation and for land restoration purposes because of its root system, which can help prevent soil erosion and improve soil structure. The plant can tolerate different soil types, including poorly drained soils, making it a useful crop for areas that are prone to flooding. Additionally, the seeds of Syntherisma digitata can be used to make flour and porridge in some regions.
Light Requirements
Syntherisma digitata typically grows best in direct sunlight, but it can also tolerate partial shade. It is recommended to provide at least six hours of sun per day for optimal growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures, with the ideal range being between 70 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 55 degrees Fahrenheit but may experience stunted growth and other adverse effects in colder temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Syntherisma digitata grows best in well-draining, moist soils. It prefers fertile soils with a pH range between 5.5 and 7.5. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as they are well-drained.
Cultivation
Syntherisma digitata prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can be grown in full sun or partial shade. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit.
To propagate Syntherisma digitata, you can either use seeds or cuttings. If using seeds, sow them in the soil during the spring season. If using cuttings, take stem cuttings during the summer season when the plant is actively growing.
Watering needs
Syntherisma digitata requires moderate watering. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. It can tolerate short periods of drought, but extended periods of dryness can harm the plant. Water the plant once a week and adjust the frequency based on the weather conditions.
Fertilization
For optimum growth, Syntherisma digitata requires regular fertilization. Use a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Be careful not to over-fertilize as it can cause the plant to become leggy.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Syntherisma digitata, but it can be beneficial to remove any damaged or diseased foliage. You can also prune to shape and control the size of the plant. Prune during the early spring before new growth appears.
Propagation of Syntherisma Digitata
Syntherisma digitata is a perennial grass species that is mainly propagated through seed. However, it can also be propagated through tillers or root division. Below are the main methods of propagating Syntherisma digitata:
Propagation through Seeds
The easiest and most common method of propagating Syntherisma digitata is by seed. The grass produces seeds annually, which can be collected and sown directly on the soil or in trays. Sowing should be done during the rainy season to enhance germination and growth. The seeds can be surface-sown, covered lightly with soil, and watered gently. Germination occurs within 1-3 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted into pots or the main field once they reach a height of about 3-4 inches.
Propagation through Tillers
Syntherisma digitata can also be propagated by tillers, which are new shoots or stems that grow from the base of the existing plant. Tillers are typically produced during the rainy season and can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted in a new location. The best time to transplant tillers is when they have developed a strong root system and are at least 6 inches tall. Transplanting should be done carefully to avoid damaging the roots and shoots.
Propagation through Root Division
Another method of propagating Syntherisma digitata is by root division. This involves dividing the parent plant's root system into smaller sections and planting them in a new location. This method is best suited for mature plants, which have developed an extensive root system. Each section should have a part of the stem and some roots attached to it. Transplanting should be done during the rainy season, and the soil should be kept moist to enhance root development.
Disease Management
There are several diseases that can affect Syntherisma digitata such as:
- Leaf Spot: This disease presents itself in the form of small, circular spots on the leaves. In severe cases, the leaves may turn yellow and fall off the plant. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove any infected leaves and spraying the plant with a fungicide.
- Rust: Rust appears as small, yellowish-orange pustules on the leaves. If left untreated, the leaves will turn yellow and eventually die. For effective control, it is advised to remove any infected leaves and apply a fungicide spray to the plant.
- Crown Rust: This disease appears as brown spots on the leaves and stems. It can lead to severe damage if not managed properly. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove any infected plant material and apply a fungicide spray.
Pest Management
Syntherisma digitata can also be affected by pests such as:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the leaves and stems of the plant. They can be managed by applying insecticidal soap or neem oil to the plant.
- Corn Earworm: These pests are known for feeding on the developing ears of corn. To manage this pest, it is advised to apply a biological control such as Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).
- Armyworm: Armyworms are caterpillars that feed on the leaves of the plant. They can be effectively controlled by applying insecticides such as spinosad or pyrethroids to the plant.
