Origin
Urochloa subquadripara (Trin.) R.D.Webster is a species of grass that belongs to the family Poaceae. It is native to South America, but it is commonly found in various regions around the world, including Africa, Australia, and Asia.
Common Names
Urochloa subquadripara is commonly known by different names across different regions and languages. In English, it is commonly known as Ticklegrass, while in Portuguese, it is referred to as Capim-meloso or Capim-pimenta. Other popular names for this plant include Pepper Grass, Tickle Weed, and Sweet Grass.
Uses
Urochloa subquadripara has several uses and benefits, including being a source of forage for livestock grazing and being used in soil conservation practices. It also has medicinal uses in some traditional medicine practices. For example, in Brazil, the plant is used traditionally to treat gastric problems and fever. Additionally, the plant contains antioxidant compounds that have been shown to have significant antimicrobial activity.
General Appearance
The plant features a dense culm, standing up to 70 cm tall, with woody bases, long leaves, and inflorescence spikes up to 20 cm long. The plant has an expansive root system that helps to improve soil fertility and stability. The stems of the plant are covered with minute hairs that give them a tickling sensation when touched, giving rise to the common name Ticklegrass. The leaves of Urochloa subquadripara are long and narrow, measuring up to 25 cm in length and 1 cm in width. The plant has a greenish tint, and the inflorescence spikes are typically greenish in color before they mature into a yellowish-brown color.
Overall, Urochloa subquadripara is a versatile plant with numerous uses that make it an essential component of many ecosystems, including agricultural settings.hereGrowth Conditions for Urochloa subquadripara (Trin.) R.D.Webster
Urochloa subquadripara (Trin.) R.D.Webster, also known as "twisted lovegrass," is a warm-season grass commonly found in the southeastern United States, Mexico, Central and South America.
Light Requirements
Twisted lovegrass prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It needs at least six hours of direct sunlight a day to thrive. Without enough light, the plant can become leggy and weak.
Temperature Requirements
Twisted lovegrass can grow in a wide range of temperatures, from 60 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it thrives in hot and humid conditions, with temperatures between 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant can tolerate mild frosts but will not survive in extreme cold conditions.
Soil Requirements
Twisted lovegrass can grow in a variety of soil types, from sandy to heavy clay, but prefers well-drained loamy soils. The plant can tolerate a wide pH range, from 4.5 to 8.5, but prefers pH levels between 5.5 and 7.5. Providing adequate drainage is essential for the growth and health of the plant.
Cultivation of Urochloa subquadripara
Urochloa subquadripara, commonly known as sensory grass or square barbuse grass, is a warm-season forage species commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions. It is a hardy plant that is easy to grow, but requires specific cultivation techniques to thrive.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Urochloa subquadripara depends on the season. During the rainy season, the plant requires less watering since it will receive water from the rains. However, during the dry season, the plant may require frequent watering to prevent it from drying out.
Fertilization
Urochloa subquadripara requires adequate nutrients to grow healthily. Apply nitrogenous fertilizers at least three times a year, preferably before the rainy season. Also, apply fertilizers containing phosphorus, potassium, and other micronutrients to ensure the plant gets the required nutrients that will encourage growth.
Pruning
Prune Urochloa subquadripara periodically to promote stronger and more robust growth. Cut back the plant to around six inches from the ground after each growing season to prevent it from becoming overgrown and to stimulate new growth. Also, remove any dead or diseased parts of the plant as soon as you notice them.
Propagation Methods for Urochloa subquadripara
Urochloa subquadripara, also known as "Amazon sprangletop," is a perennial grass species that is commonly found in tropical regions of the world. It is an excellent forage grass and is widely used for pasture and hay production. The plant has several methods of propagation, including:
Seed Propagation
One of the easiest ways to propagate Urochloa subquadripara is through seeds. The seeds of this plant are small and can be easily collected from mature plants. The seeds should be collected when the seed heads are fully mature. The seeds can then be sown directly in the field or in seed trays. The seedlings will emerge within two weeks, and they can be transplanted to the field in about four weeks after germination.
Vegetative Propagation
Urochloa subquadripara can also be propagated vegetatively. One of the most common methods of vegetative propagation is through stem cuttings. The stem cuttings should be taken from mature plants and should be about 20-25 cm in length. The cuttings should be planted horizontally in well-drained soil and should be kept moist until they root. The rooted cuttings can then be transplanted to the field.
Division
Another method of propagation for Urochloa subquadripara is through division. This method involves dividing the clumps of the plant into smaller sections. This can be done during the early spring before the plant starts to grow. The divided sections can then be transplanted to the field.
Sod Propagation
Sod propagation is another method that can be used for Urochloa subquadripara. It involves cutting patches of sod from an established field and transplanting them to another field. This method is commonly used in commercial settings and can be an effective way to establish a new field quickly.
Disease Management for Urochloa subquadripara
Urochloa subquadripara is prone to several diseases that can cause significant damage to the plant. Some of the common diseases that can affect U. subquadripara include:
- Leaf rust: Leaf rust is a common fungal disease that causes orange spots on leaves. The spots can grow and merge, causing the leaves to wither and die. To combat leaf rust, farmers can use fungicides such as propiconazole or tebuconazole.
- Fusarium wilt: Fusarium wilt is a soil-borne fungal disease that can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunting of the plant. There is no cure for Fusarium wilt, so prevention is key. Farmers can rotate crops to prevent the buildup of pathogens, use resistant plant varieties, and avoid soil compaction.
- Anthracnose: Anthracnose is another fungal disease that can cause browning and death of U. subquadripara leaves. To manage anthracnose, farmers should use foliar fungicides and avoid over-fertilization.
Pest Management for Urochloa subquadripara
Aside from diseases, U. subquadripara can also be affected by pests that can cause significant damage to the plant. Some of the common pests that can affect U. subquadripara include:
- Fall Armyworm: Fall Armyworm is a pest that can affect U. subquadripara, causing significant damage to leaves and stems. Farmers can control Fall Armyworm infestations by using insecticides such as chlorpyrifos or spinetoram.
- Grasshoppers: Grasshoppers can also be a problem for U. subquadripara, causing damage to the leaves and stems. Farmers can use insecticides such as carbaryl to manage grasshopper infestations.
- Termites: Termites can cause significant damage to the roots of U. subquadripara. Farmers can prevent termite infestations by practicing good soil drainage and avoiding over-irrigation.
It is important for farmers to monitor their U. subquadripara crops regularly for disease and pest infestations. Early detection and management are critical to prevent the spread of diseases and minimize damage from pests. Additionally, farmers should follow good agronomic practices to maintain healthy crops and minimize the risk of disease and pest infestations.
