Origin
Digera muricata (L.) Mart. var. trinervis commonly known as "Khar Shireen" or "Bhure-Shireen" is a member of the Amaranthaceae family. It is native to India, where it is abundantly found throughout the country.
Common Names
The plant is known by various local names, such as Bhaakle, Bhure-Shireen, Dhaki, Dighari, and Khar Shireen.
Uses
The plant has several medicinal properties and has been used in traditional Indian medicine for centuries. The leaves, stems, and roots of the plant are used to treat a variety of ailments, including asthma, bronchitis, cough, dysentery, fever, and rheumatism. The plant has also been used as a diuretic, tonic, and laxative. Additionally, the plant is commonly used as a vegetable in India, where it is cooked and eaten as a leafy green.
General Appearance
The plant is an annual or short-lived perennial herb that grows up to 1.5 m in height. It has a branched stem and green to purple leaves that are lanceolate to ovate in shape. The leaves are 2-10 cm long, with three prominent veins. The plant produces small green flowers in axillary or terminal clusters, which are followed by small seeds that are 0.6-1.2 mm in diameter. The plant prefers a hot and humid climate and can be found growing wild in wastelands, fields, and roadsides throughout India.
Light Requirements:
Digera muricata (L.) Mart. var. trinervis commonly grows in tropical and subtropical regions where it receives ample sunlight. The plant needs a minimum of six hours of sunlight per day for optimum growth. It can tolerate partial shade, but too much shade can lead to stunted growth and poor yields.
Temperature Requirements:
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Digera muricata (L.) Mart. var. trinervis is between 20°C and 35°C. The plant is frost-sensitive and cannot survive in temperatures below 10°C. In regions where the temperature drops below 10°C, the plant grows well in a greenhouse or indoor settings.
Soil Requirements:
Digera muricata (L.) Mart. var. trinervis grows well in well-drained, fertile soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The plant prefers sandy loam or clay loam soils. It can tolerate soil salinity to some extent, but it is not suitable for highly saline soils. The soil should be rich in organic matter, and it should be adequately moist but not waterlogged.
Cultivation
Digera muricata (L.) Mart. var. trinervis is typically grown as an annual plant in warm regions. It grows well in full sunlight and in well-draining, fertile soil. The ideal soil pH is 6.0 to 6.8.
Watering Needs
This plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Over-watering can cause root rot, while under-watering can lead to stunted growth and poor fruit development.
Fertilization
Digera muricata (L.) Mart. var. trinervis is a heavy feeder and requires regular fertilization throughout the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied every two to three weeks. Organic fertilizers, such as compost or well-rotted manure, can also be used.
Pruning
Pruning is not typically necessary for Digera muricata (L.) Mart. var. trinervis. However, removing any damaged or diseased leaves can help prevent the spread of disease. Pinching back the tips of young plants can encourage bushier growth and more fruit production.
Propagation of Digera muricata (L.) Mart. var. trinervis
Digera muricata (L.) Mart. var. trinervis can be propagated through seeds and stem cuttings. The propagation method depends on the availability of the planting material and the intended use of the plant.
Propagation through Seeds
Seeds are the most common method of propagating Digera muricata (L.) Mart. var. trinervis. Seeds are usually collected from mature plants and sown in nursery beds or directly in the field. The seeds are sown at a depth of 1-2 cm and spaced at a distance of 30 cm between rows and 10 cm between plants. Germination usually takes place in 10-20 days.
Seed viability is maintained for up to one year if stored in a cool and dry place. Seeds should be harvested from healthy plants to ensure healthy propagation material.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are another method of propagating Digera muricata (L.) Mart. var. trinervis. Cuttings are taken from mature plants during the dormant season. The cuttings should be approximately 15-20 cm long and should have at least 2-3 nodes. The cuttings are then planted in well-draining soil in the nursery or directly in the field.
The cuttings should be planted at a depth of 2-3 cm, and the soil should be kept moist until the cuttings establish roots. The cuttings should be protected from excessive sunlight and wind until they have established roots and new growth has begun to appear. Rooting usually takes place in 6-8 weeks.
Cuttings should be harvested from healthy plants to ensure healthy propagation material. Regular pruning of mature plants can provide an ongoing source of propagation material.
Disease and Pest Management for Digera muricata (L.) Mart. var. trinervis
Digera muricata (L.) Mart. var. trinervis, commonly known as Spiny Fruit Sowthistle, is a hardy plant that grows well in various environments. However, it is susceptible to several diseases and pests that can damage the plant and reduce its yield. Therefore, it is important to manage these issues to maintain healthy growth and productivity. Here are some common diseases and pests that affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that appears as brown or black spots on the leaves, which can merge to form larger areas. To prevent leaf spot, avoid overhead watering, and remove and dispose of infected leaves. Apply a fungicide in severe cases.
Fusarium Wilt: Fusarium wilt is a fungal disease that causes yellowing and wilting of the leaves and stems. The pathogen lives in the soil and can spread quickly. There is no cure for fusarium wilt, so prevention is essential. Avoid planting in infected soil and rotate crops regularly.
Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots and causes wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth. To prevent root rot, ensure proper drainage by improving soil structure and avoid waterlogging. Apply a fungicide in severe cases.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are tiny insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing curling and yellowing of leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are destructive pests that eat the leaves and stems of the plant. Apply a Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) insecticide to control caterpillars.
Trips: Thrips are small, slender insects that feed on the leaves and flowers of the plant, causing deformities and discoloration. Use sticky traps or insecticidal soap to control thrips.
Regular monitoring and timely action can help manage diseases and pests effectively. It is also essential to maintain good sanitation practices and proper plant nutrition to maintain healthy growth. By following these measures, you can prevent and manage diseases and pests effectively, ensuring optimal plant health and productivity.
