Origin:
Centrosema Pubescens Benth., commonly known as Centro, is a leguminous plant species that belongs to the genus Centrosema. It is native to Central and South America, but it has spread to many tropical and subtropical regions throughout the world.
Common names:
It is known by several names such as Centro, Butterfly Pea, and Brazilian Butterfly Pea, among others.
Uses:
Centro has many potential uses. It is commonly used as a forage crop for livestock, as it is high in protein and nutrients. The plant is also used in crop rotation to boost soil fertility, as it forms nodules on its roots, which are capable of fixing nitrogen from the atmosphere and adding it to the soil. Furthermore, the plant has been traditionally used in medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. A tea made from the leaves and flowers of the plant is also used to treat respiratory problems and fever. The plant has recently shown promise as a bioenergy crop with potential use in biofuel production.
General appearance:
Centrosema Pubescens Benth. is a climbing or trailing vine that typically reaches 2-4 meters in length. Its leaves are trifoliate, with each leaflet measuring 2-7 cm long and 1.5-4 cm wide. The plant produces showy, butterfly-shaped flowers that are usually blue or purple in color, although some cultivars have pink or white flowers. The flowers measure 2-3 cm in diameter and are arranged in clusters. The fruits are slender, elongated pods that measure up to 12 cm long and contain up to 25 seeds. The plant prefers well-drained soils and a tropical or subtropical climate, but it can also grow in temperate climates with adequate moisture.
Light Requirements
Centrosema pubescens Benth. prefers full to partial sun, meaning it needs at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to thrive. The plant is sensitive to shading and will become leggy and stunted if planted in an area with insufficient light.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is known for its ability to tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It grows well in both hot and humid environments, as well as cooler regions, as long as there is no frost. The ideal temperature range for Centrosema pubescens Benth. is between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). The plant does not tolerate extreme heat, drought, and frost well, so precautions should be taken during such conditions.
Soil Requirements
Centrosema pubescens Benth. prefers well-draining soils that are fertile, slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0), and rich in organic matter. The plant doesn't like to sit in waterlogged soils. The ideal soil for planting Centrosema pubescens Benth. is a sandy loam or loamy soil. We recommend mixing organic matter like compost, manure, or leaf mold to improve the soil's structure, nutrient content, and water-holding capacity.
Cultivation Methods
Centrosema pubescens Benth. is best grown in warm climates with well-drained soils. It can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be scarified before planting to increase germination rates. The recommended planting distance is 60 cm x 60 cm between rows and plants.
Watering Needs
The plant requires moderate watering, particularly during the growing season. Watering should be done when the soil is dry to a depth of approximately 5 cm. Overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot and plant death.
Fertilization
Centrosema pubescens Benth. benefits from regular applications of nitrogen-rich fertilizer, particularly during the early stages of growth. During the flowering and fruiting season, phosphorus and potassium-rich fertilizers are recommended. Fertilizers should be applied at the base of the plant and watered immediately afterward.
Pruning
Pruning is not essential for Centrosema pubescens Benth. However, removing dead or diseased branches can help maintain optimum plant health. Pruning should be done during the dormant season to avoid affecting the plant's growth and yield.
Propagation of Centrosema pubescens Benth.
Centrosema pubescens Benth. is primarily propagated through seeds. However, vegetative propagation can also be used as a method of propagation in cases where seed availability is limited or seasonal.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds of Centrosema pubescens Benth. can be collected from mature pods that have turned brown and dry. The seeds should be cleaned and sown immediately or stored in a cool, dry place for future use. Before sowing, the seeds must be scarified to break dormancy.
The scarification process can be done manually by filing or nicking the seed coat or through chemical treatment using concentrated sulfuric acid or boiling water. After scarification, the seeds are soaked in clean water for 24 hours before sowing.
Sowing of seeds can be done directly in the field or in nurseries. In field planting, the seeds are sown at a depth of 2-3 cm, while in nurseries, the seeds are sown in seed trays with well-drained soil mix. Germination of seeds usually occurs within 7-14 days after sowing, and seedlings can be transplanted to the field or larger pots after 4-6 weeks.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of Centrosema pubescens Benth. can be done using stem cuttings. The stem cuttings should be obtained from a healthy and disease-free mother plant. Cuttings should be 10-15 cm long and should have at least three nodes.
The lower leaves of the cuttings should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone powder. Cuttings are then planted in a well-draining rooting medium, such as sand or vermiculite. The cuttings must be kept moist and under shade for at least 3-5 weeks until roots develop.
When the roots have fully developed, the cuttings can be transplanted to the field or larger pots with fertile soil mix.
Disease and Pest Management for Centrosema pubescens Benth.
Centrosema pubescens Benth. is a legume crop that is mainly grown for forage production. Like any other crop, it is susceptible to disease and pest attacks, which can lead to significant yield losses and reduced quality of the forage. Therefore, effective disease and pest management strategies must be adopted to minimize these negative impacts.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Centrosema pubescens Benth. is anthracnose. This fungal disease can cause leaf spots, stem cankers, and defoliation, leading to reduced growth and yield. Other diseases that can affect the plant include rust, powdery mildew, and leaf blight.
To manage anthracnose and other fungal diseases, it is essential to maintain a clean field by removing infected plant debris and practicing crop rotation. Foliar applications of fungicides can also be used, but it is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions and avoid excessive use.
Common Pests
The most common pest that attacks Centrosema pubescens Benth. is the legume pod borer. This insect pest can cause significant damage to the developing pods, resulting in a reduction in yield. Other pests that can affect the plant include aphids, thrips, and cutworms.
To manage legume pod borers and other insect pests, it is essential to monitor the field regularly and use integrated pest management strategies such as biological control, cultural practices, and the use of insecticides as a last resort. Additionally, planting early maturing varieties can help to avoid pest attacks.
Conclusion
Effective disease and pest management are crucial for the successful production of Centrosema pubescens Benth. It is essential to adopt a proactive approach by monitoring the field regularly, adopting good cultural practices, and using pesticides as a last resort. By doing so, farmers can minimize the negative impacts of disease and pest attacks and ensure a successful harvest.
