Origin
Dioscorea brownii Schinz is a plant native to West Africa, specifically from Cameroon to the Ivory Coast.
Common Names
Dioscorea brownii Schinz is commonly known as brown yam, monkey yam, or cocoyam in several African countries including Cameroon, Nigeria, and Togo.
Uses
The tuber of Dioscorea brownii Schinz is a staple food in many West African countries such as Cameroon, Nigeria, Ghana, and Togo. It is boiled or roasted and commonly eaten with soup or stew. The yam is also a significant source of nutrients like proteins, carbohydrates, and vitamins.
Dioscorea brownii Schinz has also been found to have medicinal properties. In Cameroon, the leaves of the plant are used to treat fever and abdominal pain, while the root is believed to possess antipyretic (fever-reducing) and analgesic (pain-relieving) properties.
General Appearance
Dioscorea brownii Schinz is a climbing plant with a perennial rootstock that produces tubers. The stem climbs up to 5 meters high and is thin, smooth, and green. The leaves are alternate, simple, and heart-shaped with a pointed tip and a base that is deeply lobed. The flowers are small and occur in clusters on a long, branching shaft. The tuber is brown, cylindrical, and grows up to 30 cm long, with a rough, warty skin.
Light Requirements
Dioscorea brownii Schinz plants require bright, indirect sunlight for optimal growth. It is best to place them near a south or west-facing window. Direct sunlight can scorch the foliage, while too little light can cause the plant to become weak and spindly.
Temperature Requirements
These plants prefer warm temperatures between 60°F and 75°F (15°C and 24°C). They can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures, but it is important to avoid exposing them to cold drafts or temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil for Dioscorea brownii Schinz plants is well-draining and nutrient-rich. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is recommended for optimal growth. It is important to ensure that the soil does not become too compacted, as this can prevent water from draining properly and lead to root rot.
Cultivation
The Dioscorea brownii Schinz plant requires well-draining soil, with a pH range between 5.5 and 7.5. You can cultivate the plant from seeds or stem cuttings, though stem cuttings are more reliable. Planting should occur in spring to summer.
It is important to choose a location with moderate to full sunlight for your plant, and protect it from frost. The plant can grow up to 10 feet and requires support to prevent it from falling over. You may use trellises or stakes to support your plant.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering during the growing season, with the soil kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply, enough water for the soil to be saturated. During the winter, reduce watering until the soil almost dries out, then water again.
Monitor your plant for signs of underwatering, such as leaf yellowing and drooping. Overwatering can cause root rot, so be cautious not to saturate the soil to the point of standing water.
Fertilization
The plant benefits from regular fertilization. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season and reduce fertilization to once a month during winter.
If you notice that your plant's leaves are turning yellow, it could indicate nitrogen deficiency. In this case, fertilize with a higher nitrogen fertilizer than before.
Pruning
Trimming back the stems promotes bushier growth. Cut back your plant when it reaches a desired height. Pruning the plant makes it easier to manage, which encourages healthier plant growth.
Trimming is best done during dormancy, typically in winter, or after flowering in the summer. Prune out any damaged or diseased stems as soon as you notice them.
Propagation of Dioscorea Brownii Schinz
Dioscorea Brownii Schinz, commonly known as the Brown's Yam, belongs to the family Dioscoreaceae. Native to Kenya and Tanzania, it's a climbing, perennial, and herbaceous plant that produces underground tubers. The plant is propagated through several methods, which include:
Propagation through tubers
The primary method of propagating Dioscorea Brownii Schinz is through tubers. The tubers, which are the underground plant structures, are the storage organs that serve as the primary propagules of the plant. To propagate the plant, the tubers with eyes are harvested from mature plants during the dormancy period. The eyes are the small buds or protrusions on the tubers' surface that develop into stems and leaves.
After harvesting, ensure that the tubers are healthy and have no signs of disease or damage. Cut the tubers into pieces, ensuring that each piece has at least one eye. The cut pieces are then planted in well-draining soil medium in a place with high humidity and indirect sunlight.
Propagation through seeds
The plant can also be propagated through seeds. The seeds are obtained from mature plants and are usually sown in a well-prepared nursery bed. The seeds germinate into seedlings after about two weeks, after which they can be transplanted into the main field.
However, seed propagation is a less desirable method of propagation due to the low germination rate and inconsistency in plant characteristics.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Propagation via Stem Cuttings is a fast method of propagating Dioscorea Brownii Schinz. Select healthy stems from mature plants and cut them into pieces. Ensure that each cutting is at least 10 centimeters long and has a couple of leaves attached. The stems are then planted in a well-prepared soil medium in a shaded area, and high humidity and moderate sunlight are maintained. After a few weeks, some of the cuttings will develop roots and can be transplanted to their permanent positions.
In summary, Dioscorea Brownii Schinz can be propagated through tubers, seeds, and stem cuttings. The primary method is through the tubers, while seed propagation is less desirable due to low germination and inconsistency in characteristics. Stem cuttings are a quick and straightforward way to propagate the plant.
Disease and Pest Management of Dioscorea brownii Schinz
Dioscorea brownii Schinz, commonly known as the Malawi yam, is a hardy, perennial plant that grows in warm regions. It is resistant to pests and diseases, but occasional infestations can occur. In this article, we will discuss some of the common diseases and pests that affect Dioscorea brownii Schinz and suggest ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
One of the common diseases that affect Dioscorea brownii Schinz is anthracnose. It is caused by a fungus and is characterized by dark, sunken spots on the plant leaves and stems. To manage this disease, remove the affected plant parts, and spray the plant with a fungicide.
Bacterial wilt is another disease that affects Dioscorea brownii Schinz. It is caused by bacteria that clog the plant's water-conducting vessels, causing the plant to wilt and eventually die. To manage this disease, remove the diseased plant and do not plant yam in the same soil for at least two years.
Common Pests
The common pests that affect Dioscorea brownii Schinz are mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites. Mealybugs suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and leaf yellowing. Aphids feed on plant parts, causing distorted growth and honeydew secretion. Spider mites cause leaf yellowing and wilting, leading to plant death. To manage these pests, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
The sweet potato weevil is another pest that affects Dioscorea brownii Schinz. It feeds on the plant's tubers, causing rotting and degradation of yield. To manage this pest, use pheromone traps to attract and trap the weevils, and practice crop rotation.
Conclusion
Disease and pest management are critical aspects of growing Dioscorea brownii Schinz. By identifying and managing the common diseases and pests that affect this plant, farmers can ensure optimum growth and yield. It is important to follow good cultural practices such as crop rotation and proper sanitation to prevent the occurrence of diseases and pests.
