Origin
Cicer microphyllum, commonly known as small leafed chickpea, is a wild annual plant species belonging to the Fabaceae family. It is a native species to the Middle East and Mediterranean regions, including Iran, Iraq, Syria, Jordan, and Lebanon.
Common Names
Small leafed chickpea is known by various common names in its native range, including Ardekan (in Iran), Habet Al Khadra (in Iraq), and Hummus Aswad (in Syria).
Appearance
The small leafed chickpea is a small herbaceous plant that grows to a height of 15–30 cm. Its leaves are small, measuring 1.5–3 cm long and 1–1.5 cm wide, with a dark green color. The plant's flowers are white or light pink in color and grow in clusters of two to four. The seeds are small, measuring 2-3 mm in diameter, and are light green in color.
Uses
Cicer microphyllum is not commonly cultivated for food production due to the small size of its seeds. However, the plant has significant potential for use in the restoration of degraded lands, as it is tolerant to drought and can grow in poor soil conditions. The plant's seeds contain a high amount of protein, making them suitable for use in animal feed. Small leafed chickpea is also a source of traditional medicine in its native range, with various parts of the plant used to treat diarrhea, fever, and infections.
Growth Conditions of Cicer microphyllum
Light: Cicer microphyllum generally prefers bright but indirect sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can damage its leaves and roots. Therefore, it is recommended to place the plant near a window that receives filtered light or in a shaded area.
Temperature: The ideal temperature for Cicer microphyllum is between 20°C to 30°C. The plant cannot tolerate extreme heat or cold conditions. Therefore, it is essential to maintain the plant in a warm and humid environment because it is native to tropical regions.
Soil: Cicer microphyllum requires well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients and has a slightly acidic pH level. A soil mix containing equal parts of sand, perlite, and peat moss is ideal for this plant. Additionally, the soil must be moist but not waterlogged, and it should be allowed to dry out partially before the next watering to avoid root rot.
Fertilizer: It is recommended to fertilize Cicer microphyllum with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. The fertilizer must be diluted to half strength before application to avoid excess nutrients and burning of the plant roots. In contrast, during the dormant period, the plant requires little to no fertilizer.
Humidity: Cicer microphyllum requires moderate to high humidity levels to thrive. It is recommended to increase humidity levels around the plant by misting its leaves with water or placing a humidifier near the plant. In case the environmental humidity levels are low, which can lead to the drying of the plant's leaves.
Water: The plant requires frequent watering to thrive but must not be overwatered. The soil must be kept moist but not soggy. During the growing season, the plant must be watered thoroughly, and the top layer of soil must be allowed to dry out partially before the next watering. In contrast, during the dormant period, the plant requires less frequent watering.
Propagation: Cicer microphyllum can be propagated through stem cuttings or by dividing its rhizomes. Stem cuttings can be placed in a moist rooting medium and kept in a warm and humid environment until they root. Dividing the rhizomes can be done during the plant's dormant period by separating the rhizomes and planting them in a new pot with fresh soil.
Cultivation Methods
The Cicer microphyllum plant is native to the Mediterranean and prefers warm, dry conditions. It grows best in well-draining soil and needs good aeration for optimal growth. The plant needs a full day of sunlight but also can tolerate some partial shade.
It can be grown outdoors or in a container if given proper care. For outdoor planting, space the seedlings approximately 20-25 cm apart, and ensure that the soil is moist, but not waterlogged. Be sure to remove any weeds and debris to avoid competition with the young plant.
Watering Needs
Cicer microphyllum plants need regular watering, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. In the peak of summer, the plant may need watering every two to three days, while in winter, it may require watering once a week or even less.
When watering the plant, ensure the soil is evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Check the soil moisture level by sticking your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, then it's time to water.
Fertilization
For optimal growth, Cicer microphyllum needs a well-balanced fertilizer that includes nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer once every two weeks during the growing period in spring and summer. Avoid applying fertilizer during winter when the plant is dormant.
When applying the fertilizer, take care not to over-fertilize the plant as it can lead to salt buildup in the soil, which can affect the plant's growth.
Pruning
Cicer microphyllum plants require minimal pruning. To promote bushier growth, pinch back the tips of the plant when it reaches about 15 centimeters in height. This will encourage more lateral growth and result in fuller plants.
If there are any dead, diseased, or broken stems or branches, remove them promptly with sterilized pruning shears. This will prevent disease from spreading and improve the appearance of the plant.
Propagation of Cicer Microphyllum
Cicer microphyllum, also known as small-leaved chickpea, is a leguminous plant that is native to the Mediterranean and Middle East regions. The plant is an important source of protein and has medicinal uses as well. Propagation of Cicer microphyllum can be done through various methods, which are described below:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Cicer microphyllum is through seeds. Seeds should be collected from healthy plants that are at least two years old. The seeds should be stored in a cool and dry place. Before sowing, the seeds need to be soaked in warm water for 24 hours. This will help to soften the hard seed coat and increase the chances of germination. The seeds should then be sown in well-draining soil, and watered regularly but not excessively. Germination should occur within 7-14 days.
Cuttings Propagation
Cicer microphyllum can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from healthy and mature plants that are at least two years old. The cuttings should be taken in the spring before new growth appears. The cuttings should be about 10-15 cm long and should have at least three nodes. The leaves should be removed from the bottom half of the cutting. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be watered regularly and kept in a warm, humid place with bright, indirect light. Rooting should occur within 3-4 weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Cicer microphyllum
Cicer microphyllum also known as small-leaved chickpea is susceptible to several diseases and pest attacks that can significantly reduce plant yield and quality. Here are some common diseases and pests that affect the plant and suggested management practices:
Diseases
Ascochyta blight: This is a fungal disease that causes dark spots on leaves, stems, and pods. The spots eventually merge and form large patches that cause the plant to wilt and die. To manage this disease, avoid overhead irrigation, use disease-free seeds, and maintain plant hygiene by removing and destroying infected plants and plant debris. Fungicides can also be used in severe cases.
Fusarium wilt: This is a soil-borne fungal disease that causes yellowing of leaves, wilting, and stunted growth. The infected plants eventually die. The best way to manage Fusarium wilt is to plant resistant varieties. Crop rotation, soil solarization, and avoiding waterlogging can also help reduce the disease incidence.
Root rot: This is a fungal disease that thrives in wet soils and causes roots to rot. The infected plants wilt and die, and the disease can easily spread to nearby plants. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering, improve soil drainage, and use disease-free seeds. Fungicides can also be used in severe cases.
Pests
Bean leaf beetle: This is a common pest that feeds on leaves, pods, and seeds. The feeding damage leads to reduced plant yield and quality. To manage this pest, use row covers, handpick and crush the beetles, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Aphids: These sap-sucking insects feed on leaves, causing yellowing and stunted growth. They also excrete a sticky substance that attracts mold. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or ladybugs.
Thrips: These insects cause damage by feeding on leaves, flowers, and seeds. They also transmit plant viruses. To manage thrips, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and eliminate weeds that serve as alternate hosts.
With these disease and pest management practices, you can protect your Cicer microphyllum plant from diseases and pests, leading to a healthy, yield-rich crop.
