Origin and Common Names
Adenodolichos punctatus (Micheli) Harms subsp. decumbens (Verdc.) Verdc. is a perennial herb and belongs to the family of Fabaceae. It is native to the tropical regions of East and Central Africa, including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi. This plant is commonly known as the trailing snout-bean or creeping snout bean, due to its prostrate and trailing growth habit.
Appearance
The trailing snout-bean is a low-growing plant that typically grows to a height of up to 50 cm. It is a sprawling herb with a long, trailing stem that can reach several meters in length. The leaves are dark green and trifoliate (three-leaflet), with a distinct triangular shape. The flowers are small, pale yellow or white, and are arranged in axillary clusters. The fruit is a flattened, straight or slightly curved pod that is about 3-5 cm long and contains several small, black seeds.
Uses
Adenodolichos punctatus (Micheli) Harms subsp. decumbens (Verdc.) Verdc. is used for various purposes. In traditional medicine, the plant is used for the treatment of various ailments such as skin diseases, respiratory problems, and to induce lactation in nursing mothers. The leaves of the plant are used as a vegetable and are rich in protein and minerals. The plant is also used as a ground cover in landscaping and erosion control due to its trailing growth habit.
Light Requirements
Adenodolichos punctatus subsp. decumbens prefers direct sunlight, but it can also tolerate partial shade. When grown indoors, it is advisable to place it near a south-facing window to ensure it receives sufficient light.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for Adenodolichos punctatus subsp. decumbens is between 15°C to 25°C. This plant can tolerate slightly lower temperatures, but it may suffer from frostbite if exposed to temperatures below 10°C in the winter. In contrast, high temperatures exceeding 30°C can cause the leaves to wither and drop.
Soil Requirements
Adenodolichos punctatus subsp. decumbens grows best in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH range between 6 to 7.5. A mixture of loam, sand, and peat moss in a ratio of 2:1:1 is an excellent choice for this plant. Adding some manure or compost will aid in enriching the soil.
Cultivation methods
Adenodolichos punctatus (Micheli) Harms subsp. decumbens (Verdc.) Verdc. is an easy to cultivate plant that prefers a warm, dry climate. It can be grown in full sun or partial shade, and well-draining soil is essential to prevent waterlogging. Planting should be done towards the end of winter or beginning of spring.Watering needs
While Adenodolichos punctatus (Micheli) Harms subsp. decumbens (Verdc.) Verdc. is drought-tolerant, it still requires regular watering during the growing season. Water the plant deeply once a week, and increase this frequency during periods of hot, dry weather. Be careful not to overwater as this can cause root rot.Fertilization
To promote healthy growth and flowering, Adenodolichos punctatus (Micheli) Harms subsp. decumbens (Verdc.) Verdc. can be fertilized with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season. Avoid fertilizing during periods of drought as this can harm the plant.Pruning
Adenodolichos punctatus (Micheli) Harms subsp. decumbens (Verdc.) Verdc. does not require regular pruning, however, it can be pruned after flowering to maintain its shape and keep it compact. Cut back any dead or diseased wood, and remove any crossing branches to promote good airflow within the plant.Propagation Methods
The plant Adenodolichos punctatus (Micheli) Harms subsp. decumbens (Verdc.) Verdc. can be propagated through several methods. These methods include:
Seeds
Propagation through seeds is the most common and easiest method for Adenodolichos punctatus (Micheli) Harms subsp. decumbens (Verdc.) Verdc. Seeds can be collected from the plant, cleaned, and then sown into a propagation tray or directly into the ground or pots. The seeds should be sown at a depth of about 1 to 2 centimeters, and they should be covered with a layer of soil. The soil should be kept moist, and the seeds should germinate within 7 to 10 days.
Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is another method which is suitable for Adenodolichos punctatus (Micheli) Harms subsp. decumbens (Verdc.) Verdc. Semi-hardwood cuttings can be taken from the plant, either from the stem or from the branches. The cuttings should be 10 to 15 centimeters long and should have two to three leaves. Remove the leaves from the lower half of each cutting, then dip the base of the cutting into rooting hormone and insert the cutting into a pot filled with moist soil. Place the pot in a warm, shaded area and keep the soil moist. The cuttings should root within 3 to 4 weeks.
Division
Propagation through division should be done during the plant's dormant period. To divide Adenodolichos punctatus (Micheli) Harms subsp. decumbens (Verdc.) Verdc., gently dig up the plant and separate the roots into sections. Each section should have a viable stem and roots. Replant the divided sections into their own pots, and keep them in a warm, shaded area with moist soil. The plants should establish themselves within a few weeks.
Grafting
Propagation through grafting is a more advanced method. This method involves attaching a scion (a piece of the plant with desirable characteristics) onto a rootstock (a compatible plant). It is advisable to get professional help if undertaking this method.
Disease and Pest Management for Adenodolichos punctatus (Micheli) Harms subsp. decumbens (Verdc.) Verdc.
Adenodolichos punctatus subsp. decumbens is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, sometimes it may be affected by various problems that can affect its growth and yield. To ensure the optimum growth and well-being of Adenodolichos punctatus subsp. decumbens, it is essential to adopt appropriate disease and pest management practices.
Common Pests
Adenodolichos punctatus subsp. decumbens may be affected by pests such as Bean fly (Ophiomyia spencerella), Aphids, Whiteflies (Bemisia tabaci), Mites, and Caterpillars. These pests generally suck the sap from the plant, leading to stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and even death of the plant.
The best way to manage these pests is to adopt appropriate preventive measures such as regular inspection of the plant, removal of affected parts, and application of organic pesticides such as neem oil, insecticidal soap, or pyrethrin. In case of severe infestation, it is advisable to contact a professional pest control company to help manage the problem effectively.
Common Diseases
Adenodolichos punctatus subsp. decumbens can be affected by several diseases such as root rot, bacterial blight, and Anthracnose. Root rot is caused by Fusarium spp. and Pythium spp. and is characterized by wilting of leaves, yellowing, and eventual death of the plant. Bacterial blight is caused by Xanthomonas campestris and is characterized by water-soaked lesions on leaves and stems. Anthracnose is caused by Colletotrichum spp. and is characterized by dark-brown to black spots on leaves and stem.
To manage these diseases, it is essential to adopt preventive measures such as good crop rotation, proper irrigation management, and sanitation practices such as removal of affected plant debris. Application of fungicides such as copper-based fungicides and biological control agents such as Trichoderma sp. can also be useful in preventing or managing the diseases.
Overall, it is essential to adopt appropriate preventive measures and practices to manage pests and diseases effectively. Proper care and management of Adenodolichos punctatus subsp. decumbens can lead to higher yield, better quality, and increased profitability for farmers.
