Overview
Desmodium adscendens (Sw.) DC. var. adscendens is a perennial plant species that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to various parts of Africa and is widely used in traditional medicine for its various medicinal properties.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Tick Trefoil, Desmodium, and West Indian Strongback.
Appearance
Desmodium adscendens is a herbaceous plant that grows up to 1 meter in height. Its stem is woody at the base and covered with soft hair. The leaves are trifoliate, with ovate to lanceolate leaflets that are slightly pointed at the tip. The plant produces small, pink or purple flowers that grow in spikes or racemes. The fruit is a small pod that contains small seeds.
Uses
Desmodium adscendens is widely used in traditional medicine in various African countries. The plant is believed to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-spasmodic, and diuretic properties. It is also used to treat respiratory disorders, such as coughs, bronchitis, and asthma. The leaves of the plant are often boiled to make an infusion or decoction for internal use. The root is also used externally as a poultice to treat wounds, boils, and other skin infections.
Light Requirements
Desmodium adscendens is a sun-loving plant that thrives in bright light conditions. It prefers full sunlight and can tolerate partial shade, but excessive shade may hinder its growth and development. Therefore, it is recommended to grow the plant in an area that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
Desmodium adscendens is a warm-season plant that grows best when the temperature is between 70-85°F (21-30°C). The plant can tolerate higher temperatures but may require additional watering to prevent dehydration. If the temperature falls below 50°F (10°C), the plant may begin to suffer, and prolonged exposure to cold temperatures may result in plant death.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows best in well-drained, moist, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH range for Desmodium adscendens is between 6-7.5. It can tolerate slightly acidic or alkaline soil conditions but may not grow optimally. The plant grows well in sandy loam and loamy soils but can also thrive in other soil types, including clay and sandy soils.
Cultivation of Desmodium adscendens
Desmodium adscendens can be grown successfully in a range of soils. However, it prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant thrives in areas with high moisture, warm temperatures, and moderate to high humidity. It is best to grow it in partial shade, especially during hotter climates. The plant requires adequate spacing to allow good air circulation. Depending on the planting method, Desmodium adscendens takes about 2-3 months to establish its stand and flower.
Watering Needs
The plant requires sufficient moisture to grow, but too much water can cause root rot. It is essential to water the plant thoroughly, especially during its growing season. Watering should be done once a week, and the soil should be allowed to dry out between watering times. During the rainy season, it's important to monitor the water usage to avoid overwatering.
Fertilization
Desmodium adscendens is responsive to organic and inorganic fertilizer. However, it's best to apply organic fertilizers such as well-rotted manure or compost to the soil before planting. The application of synthetic fertilizers such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium should be done several weeks after planting. It is recommended to use a slow-release fertilizer to avoid burning the plant's roots. Generally, Desmodium adscendens does not require high levels of fertilization.
Pruning
Desmodium adscendens should be pruned occasionally to promote branching, remove dead, and damaged branches. The best time for pruning is during the plant's dormant season, which typically occurs after flowering. Hard pruning can be done every 3-4 years after planting to maintain the plant's vigor and prevent overcrowding. High pruning intervals help to maintain the plant's productivity, especially when it's under continuous harvesting. When pruning, it's best to use clean and sharp pruning tools to minimize damage, facilitate healing, and prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Desmodium adscendens
Desmodium adscendens, commonly known as climbing tick trefoil, is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. There are several propagation methods for D. adscendens which include:
Seed propagation
The most common method of propagating D. adscendens is through seeds. The seeds can be collected from the matured pods of the plant. The pods should be harvested at the right time, which is when they turn brown and start to split open. The seeds should be allowed to dry naturally for a few days before storage or planting.
The seeds should be sown in well-drained soil and covered with a thin layer of soil. The soil must be kept moist, but not too wet until germination occurs in two to three weeks. Once the seedlings have grown and developed leaves, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Vegetative propagation
Another method of propagation is through stem cuttings. Stem cuttings should be taken from healthy plants during the growing season. The cuttings should be about 4-6 inches long and have at least two or three nodes. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be planted in well-drained soil. The soil should be kept moist, and the cuttings should be placed in a shaded location until they develop roots.
Division
Division is another method of propagating D. adscendens. The plant should be lifted from the ground carefully and divided into two or more sections. Each section should have roots and shoots. The divided sections should be planted in well-drained soil and kept moist until they establish.
Propagation of D. adscendens is relatively easy, and the success rate is high if the right conditions are provided for the plants.
Disease and Pest Management for Desmodium adscendens (Sw.) DC. var. adscendens
Desmodium adscendens (Sw.) DC. var. adscendens, commonly known as climbing tick trefoil, is a plant species known for its medicinal properties. It is native to Africa and is commonly used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. However, like any other plant species, it is susceptible to diseases and pests that can affect its growth and yield. Here are some common diseases and pests that affect Desmodium adscendens and ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
The following are the common diseases that affect Desmodium adscendens:
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant, causing small, dark spots to appear on them. If not managed properly, it can cause defoliation and reduce the plant's yield. To manage this disease, it is essential to maintain good sanitation practices, such as removing infected leaves and debris from the plant's surroundings and avoiding over-irrigation. Fungicides can also be used to treat severe cases of leaf spot.
Rust
Rust is another fungal disease that affects Desmodium adscendens, characterized by the appearance of reddish-brown spots on the plant. The disease can cause leaf drop, defoliation, and stunted growth. To manage rust, regular pruning, and removal of infected plant parts is recommended. Applying fungicides can also help control the spread of the disease.
Mosaic Virus
Mosaic virus is a viral disease that affects the leaves of the plant, causing them to become mottled and distorted. There is no cure for this disease, so the best way to manage it is to prevent its spread. Maintaining good sanitation practices, such as washing hands and tools before handling the plant, and controlling the spread of the insect vectors can help prevent its spread.
Common Pests
The following are the common pests that affect Desmodium adscendens:
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant, leaving behind a sticky residue. They can cause stunted growth and deformation of the plant. To manage aphids, regular spraying of insecticidal soap or neem oil on the plant can help control their population. Encouraging the population of natural predators, such as ladybugs and lacewings, can also help control aphids.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the underside of the plant's leaves, causing them to turn yellow and eventually fall off. To manage spider mites, hosing the plant with a strong stream of water can help dislodge the pests. Applying insecticidal soap or neem oil can also help control their population.
Thrips
Thrips are small, slender insects that feed on the plant's leaves, buds, and flowers. They can cause distortion of plant parts and reduce the plant's yield. To manage thrips, applying insecticidal soap or neem oil on the plant can help control their population. Encouraging the population of natural predators such as minute pirate bugs and lacewings can also help control thrips.
In conclusion, managing diseases and pests in Desmodium adscendens is essential for maintaining healthy plant growth and yield. Implementing good sanitation practices, regular pruning, and removing infected plant parts can prevent the spread of diseases. Applying insecticides and encouraging natural predators can help manage the population of pests.
