Overview
Urochloa dictyoneura (Fig. & De Not.) Veldkamp, also known as Tanzania grass, is a perennial grass species that belongs to the Poaceae family. This species is native to Africa and is widely distributed across many countries such as Tanzania, Kenya, Ethiopia, Sudan, and Uganda.Description
U. dictyoneura has a tall, erect growth habit with a height ranging from 0.5 to 3 meters. It produces numerous tillers from its base, forming dense tufts. The leaves are linear and have a length of 20-60 cm and a width of 3-8 mm. They are smooth and shiny on the upper surface, while the lower surface is rough. The inflorescence is a panicle with 2-12 branches that are erect or spreading.Common Names
U. dictyoneura is commonly known as Tanzania grass. Other names include Rhodes grass, Congo grass, and Uganda grass.Uses
U. dictyoneura is an important forage crop in many African countries. It is highly nutritious and is commonly used as a feed for livestock such as cattle, goats, and sheep. In addition to its use in animal feed, U. dictyoneura can also be used for erosion control, soil improvement, and as a biofuel crop due to its high biomass productivity.General Appearance
U. dictyoneura is a tall, erect, perennial grass species with dense tufts of numerous tillers. The leaves are linear, smooth, and shiny on the upper surface, while rough on the lower surface. The inflorescence is a panicle with 2-12 branches that are erect or spreading. U. dictyoneura is commonly used as a forage crop for livestock and is also used for erosion control, soil improvement, and as a biofuel crop.Growth Conditions for Urochloa dictyoneura
Urochloa dictyoneura, also known as brachiaria or dictyoneura grass, is a perennial grass species that is mainly found in tropical and subtropical regions. It is typically grown for forage and is known for its high nutritive value and resistance to pests and diseases.
Light Requirements
Urochloa dictyoneura requires full sunlight to grow and develop properly. It is a C4 plant, which means that it exhibits higher photosynthetic efficiency and better growth under high light conditions. Therefore, it is recommended to cultivate brachiaria in open fields or areas with minimal shade.
Temperature Requirements
Urochloa dictyoneura is a warm-season grass that grows well in a temperature range of 20 to 35°C. The plant is highly sensitive to frost and cannot survive in areas with temperatures below freezing. During the summer months, it is important to provide adequate irrigation to prevent heat stress and maintain optimal growth.
Soil Requirements
Urochloa dictyoneura can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it thrives best in well-drained soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. It is important to note that the plant has low tolerance to soil salinity and waterlogging, so it is best to avoid areas with high salt content or poor drainage.
Cultivation Method for Urochloa Dictyoneura
Urochloa dictyoneura is a hardy grass species that can grow in various soil types such as sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It is a warm-season plant that requires a temperature range of 20°- 35°C to thrive. It does well in areas with a minimum rainfall of 600 mm per annum, but it can also withstand moderate drought conditions.
Watering Needs of Urochloa Dictyoneura
Although Urochloa dictyoneura is drought-resistant, it requires sufficient water during the initial growth stages and flowering periods. Watering should be done weekly, especially in areas with low rainfalls. It is essential to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to rotting of the roots, thus hindering proper growth.
Fertilization of Urochloa Dictyoneura
Urochloa dictyoneura does well in soils rich in organic matter. Application of manure or compost during soil preparation can help enhance the soil's fertility. Nitrogenous fertilizers can also be applied at a rate of 50 kg per hectare 4-6 weeks after planting and later applied in 2-3 split doses throughout the growing season. Phosphorus and potassium fertilizers can be incorporated into the soil before planting at a rate of 25 kg per hectare.
Pruning Urochloa Dictyoneura
Urochloa dictyoneura is a perennial grass that can grow up to 2 meters tall and has a moderate growth rate. It requires pruning at least twice per year to encourage new growth, remove weeds and control its height. Pruning is best done during the dry period to avoid rotting of the grass. Mowing the grass of about 10-15 cm leaving a slight stubble can help remove the weed infestation and encourage new growth.
Propagation Methods of Urochloa dictyoneura
Urochloa dictyoneura is a perennial grass with a high potential to improve livestock and soil quality. Propagation is the process of producing new plants from existing ones. There are several ways to propagate U. dictyoneura, including:
Seed Propagation
U. dictyoneura can be propagated by seeds, which are produced in large quantities. The best time to collect seeds is when the seed head turns brown and begins to dry out. The seeds should be extracted from the seed head and cleaned to remove any debris. They can be stored in a cool, dry place until planting. Seeds can be planted directly in the field or in a nursery. When planting in a nursery, the seeds should be sown in trays or pots filled with soil and compost. The seedlings should be transplanted to the field when they are about 4-6 weeks old.
Vegetative Propagation
U. dictyoneura can also be propagated vegetatively using stem cuttings. The stems should be cut from mature plants, about 20-30 cm long and free of any diseases or pests. The cuttings should be planted in a nursery filled with soil and compost. They should be watered regularly and provided with adequate shade until they are established. The rooted cuttings can be transplanted to the field when they are about 6-8 weeks old.
Division
Another way to propagate U. dictyoneura is by division. This method involves dividing the clumps of mature plants into smaller pieces. Each piece should have a good set of roots and shoots. The divisions can be planted directly in the field or in a nursery. When planting in a nursery, the divisions should be planted in trays or pots filled with soil and compost. The seedlings should be transplanted to the field when they are about 4-6 weeks old.
Overall, Urochloa dictyoneura is easy to propagate and can be propagated using various methods. Proper care and management are necessary to ensure successful establishment of propagated plants.
Disease and Pest Management for Urochloa Dictyoneura
Urochloa dictyoneura is a forage grass widely cultivated in Africa, Latin America, and Asia. Despite being a resistant and adaptable plant, it is not immune to pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common issues affecting U. dictyoneura and how to manage them.
Diseases
Leaf rust: This fungal disease is prevalent in humid regions and can considerably reduce forage production. Symptoms include small, yellow spots on the grass blades that rapidly turn into orange-brown pustules. To control leaf rust, growers should avoid planting diseased seeds or using infected cuttings. Applying fungicides that contain triadimefon can also help prevent the spread of the disease.
Anthracnose: Another fungal disease, anthracnose, causes irregular brown patches on the leaves of the grass. Over time, it can weaken the plant and reduce its production. To combat anthracnose, plant resistant varieties and practice good sanitation practices. Fungicide applications can also help control the spread of the disease.
Pests
Fall armyworm: The fall armyworm is a destructive pest that can cause significant damage to U. dictyoneura. The pest feeds on the leaves, causing large holes and uneven discoloration. Early detection is essential to prevent severe damage, so it's important to regularly inspect the grass and apply insecticides that contain chlorantraniliprole.
Root-knot nematodes: These microscopic worms parasitize the roots of the grass, causing knots and galls that can disturb nutrient uptake. The symptoms include stunted growth, yellowing, and wilting. Preventing nematode infestations can be challenging, but rotating crops with non-grass species can help reduce their populations. Applying nematicides and using resistant varieties can also be effective.
Knowing how to identify and mitigate common pests and diseases is critical for successfully growing Urochloa dictyoneura. By practicing good agricultural practices and promptly addressing any issues, growers can ensure healthy and productive crops.
