Overview of Urochloa stolonifera
Urochloa stolonifera, formerly known as Brachiaria stolonifera and commonly referred to as Stolon Buffalo Grass, is a low growing perennial grass species that is native to Africa, but is now found in many parts of the world. It is known for its ability to form extensive stolons or runners, which makes it an excellent groundcover plant.
Appearance of Urochloa stolonifera
The plant has a prostrate growth habit and can form a dense mat of grass that is typically 10-20 cm tall. The leaves of Urochloa stolonifera are narrow and range in color from light green to dark green. The stolons are slender, creeping stems that have nodes at regular intervals and can root at the nodes to form new plants. These stolons can spread rapidly to create a dense ground cover, making it an ideal landscaping plant. The flower spikelets of Urochloa stolonifera are oblong and occur in groups of two to four.
Common uses of Urochloa stolonifera
Urochloa stolonifera has been used for a variety of purposes, including as a forage crop, in soil stabilization, for erosion control, and as a turf grass. It is also used in landscaping as a ground cover because of its ability to suppress weeds and its low maintenance requirements. Additionally, the plant is known to be a good source of fodder for livestock, as it is highly palatable and has a high nutritional value.
Light Requirements
Urochloa stolonifera thrives in full sunlight. It requires at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to remain healthy and grow well. Insufficient sunlight can result in a weak and spindly growth with low productivity.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can grow in both tropical and temperate climates. The optimal temperature range for the growth and development of Urochloa stolonifera ranges from 20 to 35°C. When the temperature goes beyond this range it limits or stops its growth and development.
Soil Requirements
Urochloa stolonifera can grow in most soils, but prefers soils that are well-drained, fertile, and high in organic matter. It also requires soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. The plant is not tolerant of soils with high salinity, as this can limit or entirely inhibit its growth. Regular soil testing and fertilization are essential to maintain the appropriate pH level and nutrients in the soil for optimal plant growth.
Cultivation Methods
Urochloa stolonifera, commonly known as Stolon Couch Grass or Brazilian Signalgrass, is a warm-season grass that can be grown in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. It is easy to cultivate and prefers well-drained soils with pH between 6.0 and 7.5. The planting process involves preparing the area by removing weeds, tilling the soil, and broadcasting the seeds at a rate of 4 to 6 kilograms per hectare. The seeds should be lightly covered with soil and rolled to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. It is recommended to plant during the rainy season, and irrigation should be done sparingly until the seedlings have established themselves.
Watering Needs
Urochloa stolonifera requires regular watering, especially during the dry season, to maintain its foliage and growth. The grass is drought-tolerant but cannot withstand prolonged dry spells. Watering should be done deeply and infrequently, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. The frequency of watering will depend on the climate, soil type, and stage of growth, but generally, once or twice a week is sufficient.
Fertilization
Urochloa stolonifera is a heavy feeder and requires regular fertilization to maintain its growth and density. A soil test is recommended to determine the appropriate fertilizer ratio and application rate, but generally, a balanced fertilizer containing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium should be applied every six to eight weeks during the growing season. Slow-release fertilizers are a good option to avoid over-fertilizing and leaching nutrients into the environment. Organic fertilizers, such as compost and manure, can be added to improve soil fertility and structure.
Pruning
Urochloa stolonifera requires little pruning and maintenance. However, it is recommended to mow the grass to a height of 5 to 10 centimeters every four to six weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and to control weeds. Avoid mowing too short, as this can damage the grass and make it more susceptible to pest attacks and diseases. Remove any weeds and debris regularly to prevent them from competing with the grass for nutrients and water.
Propagation Methods of Urochloa stolonifera
Urochloa stolonifera, commonly known as Stolon Hairygrass, is a warm-season perennial grass highly valued for its use in forage production, soil conservation, and landscaping. It is a creeping grass species that grows densely in the soil and has long stolons that make it easy to propagate vegetatively.
Via Stolon Division
Stolon division is the simplest and most common method of Urochloa stolonifera propagation. This method involves the removal of stolons from the established parent plant and replanting them. Farmers and gardeners can use a sharp spade or knife to carefully cut the stolons from the parent plant without separating them from the soil. The separated stolons can then be replanted directly into the soil or into pots filled with potting mixture.
Via Seed Propagation
Propagation of Urochloa stolonifera through seed is relatively difficult, but it is possible. The plant produces seeds that can be collected for propagation purposes. However, the germination rate is often low, and the seedlings grow slowly. To propagate via seeds, the seeds need to first undergo scarification to break the seed coat and speed up the germination process, and then they need to be sown in trays filled with a soil medium mixed with sand, at a depth of 5mm. The trays should be kept moist and in a shaded area for optimal germination.
Via Transplanting Clumps
Urochloa stolonifera can also be propagated by transplanting clumps of the established parent plants. This method is used for propagation of large areas because it is the most effective and easiest way to propagate the plant. To transplant clumps, establish the parent plant, then dig them out including the roots and place them in the soil where you want to propagate them. A well-draining soil is preferable to ensure healthy root growth. The soil should be pressed firmly around the roots to keep the clump intact. Water the plant well after transplanting to help settle the soil.
Disease and Pest Management for Urochloa stolonifera
Urochloa stolonifera, also known as creeping signalgrass, is a popular warm-season forage grass used for grazing, hay, and silage. As with any plant, it is susceptible to a variety of diseases and pests that can affect its yield and quality. Here are some common issues and management strategies:
Diseases
Fungal diseases: Creeping signalgrass is susceptible to several fungal diseases, including rust, leaf spot, and stem blight. Rust appears as orange pustules on the leaves and can be managed by improving air circulation and using fungicides. Leaf spot causes yellow or brown spots on the leaves and can be controlled by removing and destroying infected plant matter and using fungicides. Stem blight causes wilted leaves and stems and can be managed by planting disease-resistant cultivars and practicing crop rotation.
Root rot: Root rot, caused by various fungi, can affect the roots of creeping signalgrass and cause stunted growth, yellowing, and wilting. To manage root rot, plant in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. In severe cases, fungicides may be necessary.
Pests
Armyworm: Armyworms are caterpillar larvae that can infest creeping signalgrass and cause significant damage. They eat the blades and stems of the grass and can quickly defoliate a field. To manage armyworms, use insecticides and plant resistant cultivars.
Grasshoppers: Grasshoppers are another common pest that can damage creeping signalgrass. They consume the leaves and stems of the plant and can stunt its growth. To manage grasshoppers, use insecticides and remove tall grass and weeds that serve as breeding ground for the pests.
Mites: Mites are tiny insects that can infest creeping signalgrass and suck the sap from the leaves. This can cause discoloration and stunted growth. To manage mites, use insecticides and maintain proper moisture levels in the soil to prevent drought stress.
By implementing these disease and pest management strategies, you can help ensure healthy and productive growth of Urochloa stolonifera. Regular monitoring of the plant for signs of disease or infestation is also crucial for early detection and intervention.
