Overview of Crotalaria angulata auct. non P. Mill.
Crotalaria angulata auct. non P. Mill. is a plant that belongs to the Fabaceae (Legumes) family. It is a species of flowering plant that is native to tropical regions of Africa, America, Asia, and the Pacific. This plant is commonly known as Angular crotalaria, Rattlebox, or Sunn Hemp. It is a popular cover crop that is widely cultivated in many countries because of its various uses and benefits.
General Appearance of Crotalaria angulata auct. non P. Mill.
Crotalaria angulata auct. non P. Mill. is an annual or perennial plant that grows up to 1-2 meters tall. It has an upright stem and numerous branches that form a bushy appearance. The leaves are simple, alternate, and ovate to lanceolate in shape, with a length of about 2-5 cm. The flowers are yellow in color, clustered in racemes, and bloom from June to September. The fruit is a cylindrical pod that contains many small seeds, and each seed is covered with fine hairs.
Uses of Crotalaria angulata auct. non P. Mill.
Crotalaria angulata auct. non P. Mill. has many uses and benefits, which include:
- As a cover crop: Angular crotalaria is one of the most popular cover crops used in agriculture. It has a deep root system that helps to improve soil health, increase soil fertility, and control weeds. It is commonly used for crop rotation, intercropping, and fallowing.
- As a forage crop: Sunn hemp is a valuable forage crop that is high in protein, minerals, and vitamins. It is commonly used as feed for cattle, sheep, and goats.
- As a green manure: Angular crotalaria is an excellent green manure that helps to enrich the soil with nitrogen. It is commonly used for organic farming, soil improvement, and land reclamation.
- As a medicinal plant: Rattlebox has many medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as fever, inflammation, respiratory infections, and gastrointestinal problems.
- As an ornamental plant: Sunn hemp is sometimes used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes because of its attractive, yellow flowers.
In conclusion, Crotalaria angulata auct. non P. Mill. is a versatile plant that has many benefits and uses. It is a valuable addition to any farm or garden that can improve soil health, provide forage, and serve as a source of medicinal properties.
Light Requirements
Crotalaria angulata auct. non P. Mill. is a plant that requires full sunlight. They grow well in locations with direct natural sunlight, but can also thrive under artificial lights with a spectrum of 400-700 nm for at least 14 hours a day.
Temperature Requirements
As a tropical plant, Crotalaria angulata auct. non P. Mill. requires warm temperatures to grow optimally. The ideal temperature range for growth is between 20 and 30°C. They can tolerate temperatures between 16 to 35°C, but extreme temperature fluctuations should be avoided, as these can negatively affect growth and development.
Soil Requirements
Crotalaria angulata auct. non P. Mill. requires a well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH range should be between 6.0 to 7.0. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil textures, but it grows best in sandy soils. Regular soil moisture is essential for good growth and development, but waterlogged soils should be avoided.
Cultivation methods:
Crotalaria angulata is a beautiful plant that can thrive both indoors and outdoors. It requires enough sunlight that ranges from full sun to partial shade. It can grow in different soils such as sandy, loamy, or clay soils, but it prefers well-draining soil. Before planting, it is recommended to prepare the soil correctly by adding organic matter such as compost and manure.
Watering needs:
Proper watering is essential for the healthy growth of Crotalaria angulata. You need to water the plant whenever the top inch of the soil is dry. However, note that it is crucial not to overwater it as it can lead to root rot. You should also ensure that the plant pot has a proper drainage system and remove any water that collects in the saucer to avoid waterlogging that can cause the roots to suffocate.
Fertilization:
You can fertilize the plant using an all-purpose fertilizer, especially during its growing season, which is during the spring and summer seasons. The recommended ratio of fertilizer is approximately 10-10-10. However, it is crucial to dilute the fertilizer to half its recommended strength. Also, reduce fertilization during the winter season.
Pruning:
Crotalaria angulata does not require extensive pruning. Instead, it requires a bit of maintenance pruning to remove any damaged or dead stems or leaves. This keeps the plant looking neat and healthy. You can also prune it to maintain its shape or size. However, it is advisable to sterilize your pruning tools to avoid transmitting any diseases to the plant.
Propagation of Crotalaria angulata
Crotalaria angulata auct. non P. Mill. is a plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family and is commonly known as Angular crotalaria. It is an annual or perennial herb that grows up to 1 meter tall and has yellow flowers. This plant is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Australia.
Propagation Methods
Crotalaria angulata can be propagated through various methods, including seeds, stem cuttings, and division.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Crotalaria angulata is through seed propagation. The seeds of this plant can be collected from mature pods and sown in a well-prepared bed. The seedlings will emerge within two to three weeks and should be thinned out to allow for proper growth.
Stem Cuttings
Propagation through stem cuttings is also possible for Crotalaria angulata. Cuttings should be taken from mature stems and leaves removed. Then, the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-prepared bed or container. Avoid planting cuttings in areas where soil is too moist as this plant prefers well-drained soil.
Division
Crotalaria angulata can also be propagated through division. This method is best done during the plant's dormant season. Simply dig up the plant and separate the roots into sections, ensuring that each section has a healthy root system and stems. Replant the sections in well-prepared soil.
No matter the propagation method chosen, it is important to ensure that the newly propagated plants are kept well-watered and protected from strong winds and direct sunlight until they are well established.
Disease Management
Crotalaria angulata is susceptible to various diseases that can affect its growth, yield, and quality. Some of the common diseases are:
- Root rot: This fungal disease causes wilting, yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, and eventual death of plants. It can be managed by removing the infected plants, sterilizing tools used on them, and rotating crops.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes yellow spots on leaves, which turn brown over time. It can be managed by pruning infected leaves, ensuring adequate spacing between plants, and applying a fungicide if necessary.
- Mosaic virus: This viral disease causes mottled or streaked leaves, stunted growth, and reduced yields. It can be managed by removing infected plants, controlling the spread of aphids, and growing disease-resistant varieties.
To prevent diseases, it's essential to maintain good cultural practices such as proper irrigation, fertilization, and sanitation. Regular scouting and monitoring of plants can also help detect any signs of disease early.
Pest Management
Crotalaria angulata is also vulnerable to various pests that can cause significant damage if left unchecked. Some of the common pests are:
- Aphids: These small insects can cause stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and the spread of mosaic virus. They can be managed by using insecticidal soap, neem oil, or natural predators such as ladybugs.
- Cutworms: These larvae can cut plant stems at ground level, causing seedlings to die. They can be managed by using physical barriers, such as collars or planting at a higher elevation.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing of leaves, stippling, and webbing. They can be managed by increasing humidity, using insecticidal soap or neem oil, or introducing predator mites.
Preventing pest infestations can be done by implementing good cultural practices, such as maintaining adequate plant hygiene, removing weeds, and avoiding over-fertilization. Additionally, monitoring plants regularly for any signs of pests can allow for early detection and intervention.
