Introduction
Desmodium procumbens (Mill.) Hitchc. is a widely-distributed plant that is known by various common names around the world. It is known for its various traditional medicinal properties and is used in different ways by many cultures.Origin and Distribution
Desmodium procumbens is an herbaceous plant that is native to Southeast Asia and has been naturalized in many other areas of the world, including India, Nigeria, and the Caribbean. It is commonly found in disturbed areas, along roadsides, in fields, and on waste ground.Common Names
Among its many popular names, Desmodium procumbens is known as "Creeping tick trefoil", "Horseherb", "Trailing beggarweed", "Trailing wistaria", "Tick clover" and "Trailing Desmodium". In Nigeria, it is known as "Akerejupon" in Yoruba, while in Ghana it is called "Ahingoli" in Twi.Uses
Desmodium procumbens has been used in traditional medicines for centuries, particularly in Asia and tropical regions. It has been used to treat various ailments such as cough, fever, respiratory infections, and allergies. It has also been used as a liver tonic and to treat hepatitis. In some cultures, the plant is known to provide relief from snake bites, scorpion, and stinging insect bites. In addition to its medicinal values, Desmodium procumbens is also used as a forage crop for livestock due to its high nutritional value. Furthermore, it is known for its potential to control soil erosion, as its deep roots helps to stabilize loose soil to prevent erosion.Appearance
Desmodium procumbens is a sprawling or creeping plant that can grow up to one meter in length. Its stem is thin and flexible, with leaves measuring about 2.5 cm wide and 6 cm long. Its flowers are small, purple, or pink in color, and grow in clusters at the nodes of the stem. The fruit is a small pod that curls inward to release seeds. Its roots are thin and long, allowing the plant to grow in loose soil and providing stabilization.Light Requirements
Desmodium procumbens is adapted to grow in a wide range of light conditions, from full sun to partial shade. It can cope with direct sunlight, but prefers shaded areas where it can grow under the canopy of other plants. This species can thrive in areas with low to moderate light intensity and can withstand short periods of drought.
Temperature Requirements
The temperature requirements of Desmodium procumbens are relatively moderate. It prefers a humid and warm environment, with an average temperature of 20-25°C, although it can tolerate temperatures ranging from 15°C to 35°C. Temperatures above 35°C might cause stress on the plant and hinder growth. During winter, the plant can withstand light frost or even temperatures as low as -5°C, but this may affect its growth and reduce seed production.
Soil Requirements
Desmodium procumbens tends to grow best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soil. However, the optimal pH range lies between 5 and 7. This plant is adaptable to various soil conditions, and it can even grow in soils contaminated by heavy metals, making it an excellent choice for phytoremediation projects. Good soil moisture levels are important for the sustained growth and health of the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Desmodium procumbens, commonly known as creeping tick trefoil, is a tropical perennial plant that can adapt to a variety of soil and sunlight conditions. However, to achieve optimal growth and yield, it is advisable to cultivate this plant in loamy soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5 and with a good drainage system. This plant prefers partial shade and cannot withstand frost. Therefore, it is essential to grow the plant in a warm and humid climate. Propagation of Desmodium procumbens can be done through seeds or cuttings. Sow the seeds in a nursery bed or directly in the field with a spacing of 30 cm between plants. If using cuttings, ensure that they have three to four nodes and are kept moist until they start to develop roots. Once the cuttings have roots, they can be transplanted to the field.Watering Needs
Desmodium procumbens requires moderate watering, especially during the dry season. Water the plants twice a week, depending on the weather conditions. Ensure that the soil is moist but not water-logged as this may cause the roots to rot. Over-watering can also lead to poor growth and yield.Fertilization
Fertilization is crucial in the cultivation of Desmodium procumbens. Use organic manure or a complete fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 4:3:2. Apply the fertilizer at a rate of 50 kg/ha during planting and 25 kg/ha after every harvest. Ensure that the fertilizer is applied evenly around the plant and, if possible, cover it with soil to prevent the nutrients from being washed away.Pruning
Pruning is necessary for the upright growth of Desmodium procumbens. It is recommended to prune the plants two to three weeks after emergence. This helps to remove the dead, diseased, or damaged parts of the plants, stimulates new growth, and promotes healthy plant development. Pruning can also prevent the plants from becoming too dense, which can lead to poor air circulation and pest infestation.Propagation of Desmodium procumbens (Mill.) Hitchc.
Desmodium procumbens (Mill.) Hitchc. can be propagated through both sexual and asexual methods. The following are ways to propagate the plant:
1. Seed propagation
Desmodium procumbens (Mill.) Hitchc. can be propagated by seeds. The seeds should be collected when they are ripe and dry. Soak the seeds in water for a day before sowing to soften the hard coat. Sow the seeds in a nursery bed or in pots containing well-drained soil. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and keep them moist.
2. Cutting propagation
Desmodium procumbens (Mill.) Hitchc. can also be propagated by cuttings. Take cuttings from the parent plant, making sure that they are healthy and disease-free. Cuttings should be taken in the early morning or late afternoon. Prepare the cuttings by removing the lower leaves and making a diagonal cut at the base. Dip the cut end in a rooting hormone and plant them in a pot containing well-drained soil. Cover the pots with a polythene bag to maintain humidity and place them in a shaded area. Roots will form in three to four weeks.
3. Division propagation
Desmodium procumbens (Mill.) Hitchc. can also be propagated through division. Divide the parent plant at the beginning of the growing season when new growth appears. Carefully remove the plant from the soil and separate the roots into new sections. Each section should have at least three shoots and a good root system. Plant the sections in pots or directly into the ground, ensuring that the soil is well-drained. Water thoroughly.
Disease Management
Some common diseases that Desmodium procumbens might be susceptible to are:
- Leaf spot
- Anthracnose
- Root rot
To manage these diseases, it is recommended to:
- Remove and destroy any infected plant debris or leaves to prevent the spread of disease
- Avoid overhead watering to prevent water from sitting on leaves for an extended period of time
- Apply fungicides specifically targeted to the disease affecting the plant
- Ensure the soil is well-drained to prevent root rot
Pest Management
Some common pests that Desmodium procumbens might be susceptible to are:
- Aphids
- Thrips
- Caterpillars
To manage these pests, it is recommended to:
- Use insecticidal soap or neem oil sprays specifically targeted to the pest affecting the plant
- Encourage beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings to naturally control pest populations
- Regularly inspect plants for signs of pest infestation and remove any affected plant parts
- Maintain plant health and vigor through proper watering and fertilization to reduce pest susceptibility
