Origin
Themeda triandra Forssk. var. sublaevigata Chiov., commonly known as African kangaroo grass, is a native plant of sub-Saharan Africa, specifically found in Sudan, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Common Names
The African kangaroo grass is known by different names, depending on the location where it is found. In Kenya, it is called "Ol Pya" by the Maasai people, while in South Africa, it is known as "Rooigras."
Uses
The African kangaroo grass has various uses, including as a source of food, medicine, and material for handicrafts. It is a valuable fodder source for livestock, particularly during the dry season when other vegetation is scarce. The grass contains important nutrients that help to improve the milk quality of cows, goats, and sheep that graze on it. The roots of the African kangaroo grass are used by traditional healers for treating a variety of ailments, such as coughs, colds, and fevers. Additionally, the grass is also used for weaving traditional baskets, mats, and ropes due to its durability and strength.
General Appearance
The African kangaroo grass is a perennial grass that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. It has tufted leaves that are up to 70 cm long, with a bluish-green color. The inflorescence is a large, open panicle that contains spikelets, each containing numerous florets. The spikelets usually have reddish-brown hairs that give the plant its distinctive appearance. The African kangaroo grass has a deep root system that helps it to survive in arid and semi-arid areas.
Light Requirements
Themeda triandra Forssk. var. sublaevigata Chiov. is a sun-loving plant that requires full sunlight for optimal growth. It should be planted in an area that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Insufficient sunlight can lead to stunted growth and reduced flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is adapted to grow in a range of temperature conditions. However, it prefers a warm climate with temperatures ranging between 20°C to 40°C. Temperatures below 10°C can harm the plant, leading to yellowing of leaves and reduced growth rate. Freezing temperatures can kill the plant.
Soil Requirements
Themeda triandra Forssk. var. sublaevigata Chiov. thrives in well-draining soils with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. The plant is adapted to grow in sandy and loamy soils. It can also be grown in shallow soils with low fertility. The soil should be rich in organic matter and have good water retention capacity to ensure optimal growth.
Cultivation Methods
Themeda triandra Forssk. var. sublaevigata Chiov. is a warm-season grass that thrives well in well-draining soils with pH levels ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. It requires full sun exposure for optimum growth and can be planted either through seeding or transplanting. The best time to plant the grass is during the rainy season when the soil is moist.
Watering Needs
The grass requires regular watering for the first few weeks after planting. It is recommended to water it two to three times a week until it is established and can withstand dry conditions. After the establishment phase, the plant can withstand drought conditions, and watering can be reduced to once every three weeks.
Fertilization
Fertilization is crucial for optimum growth and quality of Themeda triandra Forssk. var. sublaevigata Chiov. The grass requires a balanced fertilizer with NPK ratio of 10:10:10, applied during the rainy season. A second application of fertilizer can be done during the dry season but with a lower NPK ratio of 5:10:10.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to keep the grass looking healthy and attractive. The grass should be pruned at least twice a year, during the onset of the rainy season and the end of the dry season. The pruning should be done to remove the old leaves and promote the growth of new ones. It is recommended to cut the grass down to about 5-10cm above the ground.
Propagation of Themeda triandra Forssk. var. sublaevigata Chiov.
Propagating Themeda triandra Forssk. var. sublaevigata Chiov. can be done through various methods including seed collection and division of existing plants. Below are the propagation methods:
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Themeda triandra Forssk. var. sublaevigata Chiov. can be collected from mature plants before the seed pods burst open. Once collected, the seeds can be stored in a cool, dry place until needed. Sow the seeds in a seedbed, covering them with a light layer of soil, and water them gently. After a few weeks, seedlings will emerge and can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Division Propagation
The plant can be propagated through division in early spring before the growing season starts. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the clumps by hand or with a sharp knife. Each division should have a clump of roots and several stems. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were previously growing and water them well. Keep the soil moist until new growth appears.
Disease and Pest Management of Themeda triandra Forssk. var. sublaevigata Chiov.
Like all plants, Themeda triandra Forssk. var. sublaevigata Chiov. is susceptible to several diseases and pests. Understanding the common diseases and pests that affect this plant and how to manage them is important to ensure its healthy growth.
Common Diseases
Fungal and Bacterial Diseases: This plant is susceptible to fungal and bacterial diseases, which can lead to yellowing and discoloration of leaves, stunted growth, and ultimately death. The most common fungal and bacterial diseases that affect this plant include rust, leaf spot, and bacterial wilt.
Root Rot: Root rot is another common disease that affects Themeda triandra Forssk. var. sublaevigata Chiov. and is caused by waterlogged soil, leading to the rotting of the plant's roots. This disease can be identified by the discolored roots and stunted growth of the plant.
Disease Management
To manage fungal and bacterial diseases, it is recommended to prune the infected parts of the plant and apply fungicides or bactericides to the remaining parts of the plant. For root rot, it is important to improve drainage and avoid overwatering the plant.
Common Pests
Sucking Insects: Sucking insects like aphids, mealybugs, and whiteflies can infest this plant and suck the sap, leading to stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. These insects can also transmit plant viruses and attract other pests.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars can also infest this plant and feed on its leaves, leading to defoliation and stunted growth.
Pest Management
To manage sucking insects, it is recommended to apply insecticidal soaps or oils to the infected parts of the plant or introduce natural predators like ladybirds. Caterpillars can be managed by manually removing them or applying Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) insecticides.
Regular monitoring of the plant and adopting preventative measures like proper watering, fertilization, and pruning can also help prevent diseases and pests from infesting Themeda triandra Forssk. var. sublaevigata Chiov.
