Origin of Derris indica
Derris indica (Lam.) Bennett is a perennial plant native to Southeast Asia, particularly in India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar.
Common Names of Derris indica
This plant is commonly known as the "Indian Derris" or "Indonesian Derris." It is also known as "Lakshman booti" and "Pongamia."
Uses of Derris indica
Derris indica has several uses in traditional medicine and agriculture. Its roots contain rotenone, a natural insecticide that can control pests like aphids, mites, and worms. It is also used to treat ailments like dysentery, leprosy, and skin diseases in traditional medicine. The oil extracted from the plant is used as a biodiesel, and the seeds are used to make candles and soap.
General Appearance of Derris indica
The Indian Derris plant is a woody climber that can grow up to 20 meters in length. Its leaves are long, pointed, and shiny green. The flowers are small, purple, or pink in color, and bloom in clusters from October to November. The plant produces a pod that can contain up to 8 seeds, which are round and slightly flattened. The roots of the plant are thick and woody.
Light Requirements
Derris indica prefers moderate to full sunlight conditions. It can also thrive under partial shade, but it is not recommended to grow it under full shade as this can limit its growth potential and affect its overall vigor.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is adaptable to a range of temperatures and can grow in both warm and cool climates. However, the optimum temperature for growth is between 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. Anything below 10 degrees Celsius can slow down growth, while temperatures above 35 degrees Celsius can cause heat stress and affect the plant's health.
Soil Requirements
Derris indica grows best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It prefers soils that are slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH range between 6 to 7.5. For optimal growth, the soil should be water-retentive but not waterlogged. It can also tolerate certain types of soil such as sandy loam, clay loam, and red lateritic soils, provided they are well-draining and nutrient-rich.
Cultivation of Derris indica (Lam.) Bennett
Derris indica (Lam.) Bennett, also known as the Indian Derris, is a leguminous plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is predominantly found in India and Asia. For successful cultivation, ensure the following conditions are met:
- Plant D. indica in a well-draining soil, preferably with a pH range of 5.5-7.7.
- The plant requires partial shade or full sunlight with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 32°C.
- Ensure that the plant is located in a place where it is protected from strong winds.
- The plant needs adequate spacing to enhance proper air circulation. A spacing of 2-3 meters apart would suffice.
Watering Needs
The watering requirements for D. indica depend on various factors such as soil type, temperature, and humidity levels. For optimal growth and development, the plant requires sufficient moisture in the soil. The following are important tips for watering D. indica:
- Provide water consistently, ensuring that the soil remains evenly moist but not waterlogged.
- Water the plant regularly, especially during extended dry periods with minimal rainfall.
- Avoid overwatering the plant because it can cause root rot and lead to stunted growth.
Fertilization
D. indica responds well to proper fertilization. The following are essential tips for fertilizing D. indica:
- Use a balanced fertilizer to provide the optimum nutrient requirement for the plant.
- Apply fertilizers in early spring and summer, or as needed. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant as it can lead to excess foliage and reduced flowering.
- For organic fertilization, use compost or manure that has been aged. Apply and work it into the soil around the base of the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential aspect of D. indica's maintenance as it promotes proper growth and flowering of the plant. The following are important tips for pruning:
- Prune D. indica in early spring before new growth emerges.
- Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches to promote airflow and reduce the risk of pest and disease infestation.
- Use sharp and sterile pruning tools to avoid injuring the plant.
- Prune the plant to maintain its desired shape and size.
Propagation of Derris indica (Lam.) Bennett
Derris indica (Lam.) Bennett, commonly known as the Indian Derris, is a leguminous vine with a wide range of medicinal properties, including insecticidal, fungicidal, and molluscicidal activities. The plant is propagated through both sexual and asexual means.
Sexual Propagation
The plant produces seed pods containing several seeds. To propagate the plant through sexual means, collect fresh seed pods from a mature plant. The seeds must be extracted from the pods and sown immediately in pots filled with fertile, well-draining soil. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Germination will take between 10-25 days.
Asexual Propagation
Derris indica can be propagated asexually through cuttings and layering.
Cuttings: Take stem cuttings from a healthy, mature plant. The cuttings should have three nodes and should be about 15-20 cm long. Dip the basal end of the cutting in rooting hormone powder and plant it in a pot filled with well-draining soil. Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag and place it in a bright, warm location away from direct sunlight. After four to six weeks, the cutting should have rooted.
Layering: Select a healthy, low-lying stem of the plant and put it in contact with the soil. Cover the stem with soil leaving the growing tip exposed. After some time, roots will grow from the covered stem and a new plant will form. Once the new plant forms, it can be separated from the parent plant and potted.
Regardless of the propagation method, the new plants should be cared for by providing adequate sunlight, water, and nutrients. Transplant the seedlings into individual pots and once they outgrow their pots, transplant them to a permanent location.
Disease Management
Derris indica is generally a hardy plant, but it is still susceptible to certain diseases. The following are some common diseases that affect the plant:
- Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and stems of the plant. It causes leaf spots and can lead to defoliation. To control anthracnose, it is important to remove infected plant parts and apply a fungicide to the plant.
- Leaf spot: This is another fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant. It causes small, circular spots on the leaves that can coalesce and form large lesions. To prevent leaf spot, it is important to maintain good air circulation around the plant and avoid getting water on the leaves. Additionally, applying a fungicide can be beneficial.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by fungi that infect the roots of the plant. It can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. To prevent root rot, it is important to avoid overwatering the plant and to improve soil drainage. Additionally, applying a fungicide can be effective.
Pest Management
Derris indica is also susceptible to certain pests. The following are some common pests that affect the plant:
- Whiteflies: These insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause wilting and yellowing of the leaves. To control whiteflies, it is important to remove infected plant parts and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to the plant.
- Aphids: These insects also feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To prevent aphids, it is important to maintain good air circulation around the plant and remove any infected plant parts. Additionally, applying insecticidal soap or neem oil can be effective.
- Caterpillars: These insects can chew on the leaves and stems of the plant, causing significant damage. To control caterpillars, it is important to handpick them off the plant or apply a biological insecticide.
