Overview of Citrullus rehmii De Winter
Citrullus rehmii De Winter is a species of flowering plant, and it belongs to the family Cucurbitaceae. The plant is commonly known as the Namib tsamma or the Namibian wild watermelon, and it is native to Africa. The plant grows in hot, arid regions such as the Namib Desert, where it survives by storing water in its fleshy fruit.
Appearance
The Namibian wild watermelon has a distinctive appearance. It is a trailing plant with hairy stems that can reach up to 2m in length. The leaves are thick and fleshy, with coarse teeth on the margins. The flowers are pale yellow, and the fruit is spherical, measuring between 3-5cm in diameter. The fruit has a hard rind, and when it is mature, it is yellowish-brown in color. The seeds of the fruit are black and angular.
Uses
Citrullus rehmii De Winter is traditionally used by indigenous people in Africa for its medicinal properties. The fruit is believed to have diuretic and laxative effects and is used to treat various ailments such as urinary tract infections, constipation, and kidney stones. In addition to its medicinal properties, the fruit is also used as a source of food. The pulp of the fruit is edible and has a sweet, refreshing taste. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants and is a good source of hydration for those living in arid regions.
The Namibian wild watermelon has potential as a crop plant due to its ability to survive in harsh environments. It has been studied for its drought tolerance, and research is ongoing to develop cultivars that can be grown commercially.
Light Requirements
Citrullus rehmii De Winter requires full sunlight to grow and thrive. It should be positioned in an open area where it can receive at least eight hours of direct sunlight every day. If the available sunlight is insufficient, it may become weak and eventually die. It can tolerate some shade during the early growth stages, but as it matures, it requires full sun exposure to bear fruit.
Temperature Requirements
Citrullus rehmii De Winter is a warm-season crop that requires a warm and dry climate to thrive. It grows best at an optimal temperature range of 24°C to 32°C. Temperatures below 18°C or above 40°C may cause poor growth, delayed fruit development or cause the plant to wilt and die. It is important to protect the plant from frost and cold weather as it cannot survive below 10°C.
Soil Requirements
Citrullus rehmii De Winter prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH range for this plant is between 6.0 and 7.5. The plant requires a deep, loamy soil with good aeration to allow for proper root development. It is also important to avoid soils that are heavy, compacted, or waterlogged, which may cause root rot and poor growth. Adding organic matter to the soil can help improve soil texture and nutrient availability.
Cultivation Methods
Citrullus rehmii, commonly known as Barooti watermelon, is a tropical plant that requires warm temperatures to grow. Therefore, cultivate it in warm regions with well-draining soil. The plant needs plenty of sunlight, so ensure that it receives at least six hours of full sunlight daily.
Start growing your Citrullus rehmii by sowing the seeds about ½ inch deep and 2-3 feet apart. Water the seeds regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Once the seedlings emerge, thin them out, leaving the strongest ones to grow.
Watering Needs
Watering Citrullus rehmii is essential, especially during the flowering and fruiting stage. However, overwatering can lead to root rot and reduce the plant's productivity.
Water the plant once a week, ensuring that the soil is moist to a depth of at least 6 inches. During hot weather, you may need to water more frequently, probably twice a week.
Fertilization
To promote healthy growth and abundant fruiting, Citrullus rehmii requires regular feeding. You can use organic matter such as compost or animal manure or a complete fertilizer blend.
Apply the fertilizer or organic matter in early spring, before the plant starts to flower. Repeat the application every six weeks until the fruits start to develop. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can cause the plant to produce too many leaves instead of fruits.
Pruning
Pruning Citrullus rehmii is essential to promote healthy growth and fruiting. Once the plant reaches about six feet in length, pinch off the tips of the stems to encourage lateral branching. Lateral branches produce more fruiting spaces than a single vertical stem.
Remove any yellow or wilted leaves to prevent the spread of diseases and infections. Also, remove any suckers or shoots that grow from the ground as they tend to reduce the plant's productivity.
Propagation of Citrullus rehmii De Winter
Citrullus rehmii De Winter, commonly known as the Namib Tsamma, is a watermelon species that is native to Namibia. This drought-resistant plant is propagated using several methods including:
Seed Propagation
The easiest and most common way to propagate Citrullus rehmii is through seeds. The seeds can be obtained from mature fruits of the plant. Once the seeds are extracted, they should be washed and allowed to dry. The dried seeds can be sowed directly in the soil or in seedling trays.
The best time to sow the seeds is in early summer or late spring. Before planting, the soil should be pre-moistened and loose. The seeds should be sowed at a depth of 1-2 cm and spaced about 1 meter apart.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation involves taking stem cuttings from the parent plant and rooting them in the soil. This method is ideal when propagating from a mature Citrullus rehmii plant.
To propagate using this method, select healthy and mature stems for cutting. The stems should be cut from the base of the plant and should be about 15-20 cm in length. Remove the leaves from the bottom of the stem before planting.
The cuttings should be inserted into pre-moistened soil at a depth of 5-10 cm. Water the soil and cover the pot with plastic to help maintain moisture levels. After a month or two, the plant should have developed roots and can be transplanted into the main field.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting propagation is a method that involves attaching the stem of a young Citrullus rehmii plant onto the rootstock of a mature plant. This method is ideal when the soil conditions are not suitable for the plant.
To propagate using this method, select a healthy young plant and remove leaves from its base. Cut it into a V-shape and remove the bud from the stem. The bud is then inserted into an opening made in the rootstock.
The grafted plant should be watered regularly and covered with plastic to protect it against pests and diseases. After a month or two, the plant should have developed enough roots to be transplanted into the main field.
Propagation of Citrullus rehmii De Winter can be done using various methods such as seed propagation, cutting propagation, and grafting propagation. However, seed propagation remains the most common and easiest method to propagate the plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Citrullus rehmii De Winter
Citrullus rehmii De Winter, also known as the desert watermelon, is a plant that belongs to the family Cucurbitaceae. Like other members of the Cucurbitaceae family, this plant is susceptible to various diseases and pests. Therefore, it is crucial to have an effective disease and pest management plan to ensure healthy growth and productivity of the plant.
Common Diseases
One common disease that affects Citrullus rehmii De Winter is powdery mildew. It is a fungal disease that appears as white or gray powdery patches on the leaves, stems, and fruit. To prevent powdery mildew, ensure proper air circulation, and avoid overcrowding by planting the plants at proper spacing. Remove the infected leaves, and use fungicides to control the spread of the disease.
Another disease that commonly affects Citrullus rehmii De Winter is bacterial wilt. It is a bacterial disease that causes wilting of leaves, followed by death of the plant. The bacteria are mostly introduced into the plant through wounds or insect bites. To manage bacterial wilt, prevent insect infestations, and avoid injuring the plant during cultivation. Use resistant varieties, manage irrigation, and rotate crops regularly.
Common Pests
Citrullus rehmii De Winter may also be attacked by various pests, including aphids, cucumber beetles, and squash bugs. Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from the plant, leading to stunted growth and distortion of leaves. To combat aphids, use insecticidal soap, remove infested leaves, and introduce natural predators, such as ladybugs and lacewings. Cucumber beetles are another common pest that feeds on the plant, leading to damage and reduced productivity. To control cucumber beetles, practice crop rotation, use insecticide as a last resort, and remove the infested plants. Squash bugs are also a nuisance, as they feed on the leaves and stems, causing wilting and death of the plant. To manage squash bugs, handpick them, use insecticides, and avoid planting related crops near the plant.
Overall, proper disease and pest management for Citrullus rehmii De Winter involves a combination of cultural, biological, and chemical methods. It is essential to monitor the plant regularly for any signs of disease or pest infestations and take immediate action to prevent further spread.
