Overview
Abelmoschus manihot (L.) Medik. var. zenkeri (Gürke) A.Chev. is a plant species that belongs to the family of Malvaceae, commonly known as the okra plant. It is an annual plant that is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions for its edible pods and seeds. This plant is also used for its medicinal properties and ornamental purposes.
Origin and Common Names
The plant is native to Africa, specifically in Nigeria, but it is now widely cultivated in other parts of the world, including Asia, South America, and the Caribbean. The plant is called differently in various regions, including ‘bamia’ or ‘bhindi’ in Arabic, ‘gombo’ in French, ‘okro’ in English, and ‘quiri quiri’ in Spanish.
Uses
The okra plant has many uses, primarily as a food source. The pods of the plant are commonly used in cooking, especially in African and Middle Eastern cuisine. They are usually boiled, fried, or used in soups and stews. The seeds of the plant are also edible and are sometimes roasted or ground into a coffee substitute. The leaves of the plant, on the other hand, are sometimes used in traditional medicine for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help in treating various ailments, including respiratory issues and skin diseases. The okra plant is also used for ornamental purposes because of its attractive flowers, which can add color to gardens and landscapes.
General Appearance
The okra plant is an annual, herbaceous plant that can grow up to 2 meters tall. It has deep green leaves that are lobed and heart-shaped with a velvety texture. The flowers are large and showy with five petals and a prominent yellow center. The fruit is a long, slender pod with a ridged surface and contains numerous seeds. The pod can grow up to 18 cm long and is usually green, but it can turn red or yellow as it matures. The plant has a deep rooting system that can help it survive in dry conditions.
Growth conditions for Abelmoschus manihot var. zenkeri
Abelmoschus manihot var. zenkeri, also known as Zenker's okra, is a fast-growing perennial plant that thrives in tropical and subtropical regions. It requires specific environmental conditions to grow and produce abundant foliage.
Light Requirements
The plant requires full sunlight exposure for at least 6 hours daily. Therefore, it's best to plant it in a location that receives ample sunlight throughout the day. The leaves of the plant grow larger in full sunlight and have a bright green color that enhances its aesthetics.
Temperature Requirements
Zenker's okra cannot tolerate low temperatures and frost. It thrives in warm environments where the temperature is between 20°C and 30°C. At lower temperatures, the plant's growth slows, and the leaves turn yellow and fall off. Therefore, the plant should be grown in a warm location with moderate humidity levels.
Soil Requirements
The plant can grow in various types of fertile soil but requires well-drained soils with a pH range between 6.0 and 7.5. The soil needs to be rich in organic matter and porous to allow enough air circulation. The plant doesn't do well in waterlogged soil as it can cause root rot.
Watering Requirements
Abelmoschus manihot var. zenkeri requires regular watering to maintain its growth and foliage. The plant should be watered at least twice a week, especially during dry seasons. Overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilizer Requirements
The plant requires regular feeding with fertilizers rich in nitrogen to promote leaf growth. It's recommended to apply a balanced fertilizer that contains phosphorous and potassium for overall plant development. The fertilizer should be applied during the growing season, and the plant should be watered deeply after each feeding.
By providing the right environmental conditions, Abelmoschus manihot var. zenkeri can grow into a beautiful and productive plant with lush foliage and abundant flowers.
Cultivation Methods
Abelmoschus manihot (L.) Medik. var. zenkeri (Gürke) A.Chev. can be grown either from seeds or stem cuttings. The seeds should first be soaked in water for a day or two before planting. Plant the seeds in well-drained soil and maintain moist soil during the germination process. The plant prefers full sunlight and a warm climate.
Watering Needs
The plant should be watered regularly, especially during the dry season, to keep the soil moist. However, do not overwater as it can cause root rot. It is better to give deep watering less frequently than to give shallow watering more frequently.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer. You can also use organic fertilizers, such as compost, to nourish the soil. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant season.
Pruning
Prune the plant in the early spring by removing any dead or damaged branches. You can also prune to shape the plant or to control its size. The best practice is to use clean, sharp tools to prevent damaging the plant.
Propagation of Abelmoschus manihot (L.) Medik. var. zenkeri (Gürke) A.Chev.
Abelmoschus manihot (L.) Medik. var. zenkeri (Gürke) A.Chev. is a perennial plant that can be propagated by different methods including:
Seed Propagation
The plant produces numerous seeds that can be sowed directly into the ground or in seed trays filled with suitable soil. The seeds should be kept moist until they germinate. In about 7-14 days, the seeds will have sprouted, and within 2-3 months, the seedlings will have developed roots and can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Cuttings Propagation
This method of propagation requires the use of matured stems, cut into desired sizes, and then carefully planted in a suitable medium. The cuttings are kept moist and warm until they start to sprout. Within a few weeks, the cuttings would have rooted and can be transplanted to a permanent location.
Division Propagation
This method of propagation involves separating well-established plants into smaller parts, each with root systems, and planting them in suitable soil. Each divided part should have shoots and roots. The divided parts should be immediately transplanted into their permanent location and kept moist for the next few weeks until they are well established.
The best time to propagate Abelmoschus manihot (L.) Medik. var. zenkeri (Gürke) A.Chev. is in the spring season when the temperatures are mild, and the soil is moist. Proper care should be taken to ensure that plants are not stressed during transplanting, and adequate water and nutrients are provided to aid quick establishment.
Disease Management
Abelmoschus manihot (L.) Medik. var. zenkeri (Gürke) A.Chev. is vulnerable to a few diseases. Below are some of the common diseases, their symptoms and management strategies:
Mosaic Virus
The virus causes a mosaic-like discoloration on the leaves. It reduces the plant's ability to absorb light energy, leading to lower yields. The virus spreads through sap, insects, and infected seeds. To manage this virus, practice crop rotation, use only certified seeds, and use insecticides to control pest vectors.
Anthracnose
This fungal disease appears as small, sunken, dark spots on leaves and stems. It also causes twig blight and pod rot. It spreads through water, tools, and infected plant debris. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected material, practice crop rotation, and use resistant varieties. Also, maintain proper plant spacing for better air circulation, and avoid overhead irrigation.
Fusarium Wilt
This soil-borne fungal disease causes wilting and yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. Infected plants often die. The fungus spreads through soil, infected seeds, and tools. To manage this disease, practice crop rotation, remove and destroy infected plant debris, and use fungicides.
Pest Management
Abelmoschus manihot (L.) Medik. var. zenkeri (Gürke) A.Chev. is also vulnerable to a few pests. Below are some common pests, their symptoms, and management strategies:
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that suck sap from leaves, causing them to yellow, wilt and drop. These pests thrive in hot and dry conditions. To manage spider mites, spray infested plants with water to remove them, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, and predatory mites.
Aphids
Aphids are tiny insects that suck sap from young leaves and stems. They cause leaves to curl and twist, and the plant to wilt. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, and insecticides. You can also introduce predatory insects such as ladybugs.
Leafhoppers
These insects are common in hot and dry weather. They suck sap from leaves, causing them to turn pale and yellow and prematurely fall off. To manage leafhoppers, use insecticides or introduce natural predators such as praying mantis.
When managing disease and pests, always use the recommended products and follow safety guidelines. Also, observe proper plant hygiene practices such as regular weeding to reduce weeds, which harbor pests and diseases.
