Overview of Dioscorea dinteri Schinz
Dioscorea dinteri Schinz, also known as the "Dinter's yam," is a plant species that belongs to the family Dioscoreaceae. This plant is native to Africa, particularly in Cameroon, Nigeria, and Gabon. It is a perennial climbing vine that grows on trees and other support structures. Dioscorea dinteri Schinz is a valuable crop plant that is widely cultivated and highly prized by local communities.
Appearance of Dioscorea dinteri Schinz
The Dioscorea dinteri Schinz plant has elongated rhizomes that can grow up to 2-3 meters long. Its stem is slender and smooth, with well-developed nodes and internodes. The leaves of this plant are usually heart-shaped, with a length of approximately 12-14 cm and a width of 9-10 cm. The leaves can either be entire or three-lobed, with pointed tips and slightly wavy margins. The flowers of Dioscorea dinteri Schinz are typically small, about 6-8 mm long, and greenish-yellow in color. The plant bears small fruits that are spherical and about 2-4 cm in diameter, containing several seeds.
Common Names and Uses of Dioscorea dinteri Schinz
Dioscorea dinteri Schinz is known by different names, depending on the region and the language used. In the Igbo language of Nigeria, it is called "Akoghoro"; in the Yoruba language, it is called "Baula," while in the Douala language of Cameroon, it is called "Obole." With its high nutritional value and medicinal properties, Dinter's yam is a staple food and an essential source of income for many African communities. The rhizome of the plant is rich in carbohydrates, dietary fibers, and other essential nutrients, making it a good source of energy and a useful component in various traditional dishes. The yam is also used medicinally to treat various ailments such as digestive disorders, muscular pain, and respiratory problems.
Light Requirements
The Dioscorea dinteri Schinz plant requires a substantial amount of sunlight. It grows well when placed in a location that receives ample sunlight, preferably 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. If the plant is indoors, it is recommended to be placed near a south-facing window to mimic its natural habitat.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the Dioscorea dinteri Schinz plant is between 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). However, the plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C (50°F) and high as 32°C (90°F) for a short duration. Plant owners must be careful not to expose the plant to extreme temperature changes as it may negatively affect growth.
Soil Requirements
The Dioscorea dinteri Schinz plant thrives in a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mixture. The soil pH range should be between 5.5 and 6.5 for optimal growth and development. The addition of organic matter such as compost or peat moss to the soil is recommended for better water retention and aeration.
Avoid overwatering the plant as it can lead to waterlogging and root rot. Instead, water the plant periodically, allowing the soil to dry out between watering sessions to ensure adequate drainage.
Cultivation Methods
Dioscorea dinteri Schinz is a climbing plant that thrives in tropical and subtropical regions. The plant can grow up to 10 meters long and needs support to climb. When planting D. dinteri, choose a site with well-draining soil and partial shade. The plant can tolerate full sun but will need more water to grow.
Plant the tubers horizontally, in shallow pits, with the buds facing upwards. Cover the plant with soil, leaving about two to three centimeters of the tuber above the soil. Water the plant after planting and regularly afterward to keep the soil consistently moist.
Watering Needs
Dioscorea dinteri Schinz requires consistent moisture to thrive, making regular watering essential. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on your soil type and weather conditions. Avoid overwatering, as this may cause root rot, especially in poorly draining soil.
During the dry season, increase the frequency of watering, making sure the soil does not dry out. Consider mulching around the plant to help retain moisture and reduce water stress.
Fertilization
D. dinteri Schinz requires regular feeding with nitrogen-rich fertilizer. Fertilize the plant every two to three weeks, using a balanced fertilizer with high-nitrogen content. Apply the fertilizer around the base of the plant, making sure not to touch the stem or foliage.
During the growing season, you can supplement with potassium fertilizer to encourage tuber development. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this may cause excessive foliage growth and reduce tuber yield.
Pruning
Pruning Dioscorea dinteri Schinz is vital to maintain plant health and improve harvest. You can prune the plant during the dormant period or after harvest. Remove any damaged, diseased, or dead stems and leaves. Prune back the remaining stems to about four to six nodes, leaving enough foliage to support the plant's growth.
If you grow D. dinteri Schinz for foliage, you can prune the plant regularly to encourage new growth and reduce overcrowding. Be careful not to prune too much foliage, as this may affect tuber production.
Propagation of Dioscorea dinteri Schinz
Seed propagation: One of the primary methods of propagating the Dioscorea dinteri Schinz plant is through seeds. The seeds must be harvested when the fruit is mature. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil, preferably in a mixture of sand and loam, or in a container. To hasten germination, it is important to scarify or soak the seeds first before planting them. The ideal temperature range for germination is between 20-25°C.
Stem cutting propagation: Another method of propagating Dioscorea dinteri Schinz is through stem cutting. This technique involves choosing healthy stems that possess at least three nodes along with the leaves. The stem is cut below the node and should be at least 30cm long. The cutting should be inserted into a potting mixture comprising of sand, soil, and vermiculite at a depth of 5-7cm. The cutting should be kept in a warm and humid location with moderate sunlight.
Tuber propagation: Dioscorea dinteri Schinz can also be propagated through tubers. The tubers are usually dug up from the ground in the dormant season when the plant is not growing. The tubers should be separated from the parent plant and planted in a pot containing loamy soil mixed with a small amount of sand and vermiculite. The ideal temperature range for growth is between 20-30°C, with moderate sunlight and humid conditions.
Disease and Pest Management for Dioscorea dinteri Schinz
Dioscorea dinteri Schinz, commonly known as the yellow yam, is a food crop grown in tropical and subtropical regions. While it is a hardy species, it is susceptible to several diseases and pests. Here are some common ones and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, stems, and roots of the plant. Symptoms include dark, circular lesions on the leaves, stem cankers, and rotting of the roots. To manage anthracnose, avoid planting in areas with a history of the disease, and practice good hygiene. Remove and destroy infected plant material and avoid overhead irrigation.
Yam mosaic virus: This virus is transmitted by aphids and affects the leaves of the plant, causing yellowing and mottling. There is no cure for yam mosaic virus, and infected plants should be destroyed to prevent the spread of the virus. To prevent infection, control aphids through the use of insecticides or by growing the plant under a physical barrier.
Root-knot nematodes: These are microscopic worms that live in the soil and feed on the roots of the plant. Infected plants show stunted growth, wilting, and can die. To manage root-knot nematodes, avoid planting in infected soil or rotating the crop with non-susceptible species. Nematode-resistant varieties can also be used.
Pests
Sweet potato weevil: This is a beetle that feeds on the tubers of the plant, causing damage and rotting. To manage sweet potato weevil, use insecticides and practice good hygiene. Infected plant material should be removed and destroyed.
Whiteflies: These small insects suck the sap of the plant and cause the leaves to turn yellow. They also excrete a sticky substance, which can lead to the growth of sooty mold. To manage whiteflies, use insecticidal soap or oil. Introducing natural predators like ladybugs can also help control their population.
Spider mites: These are tiny pests that feed on the leaves of the plant, causing them to appear mottled and discolored. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap or oil and increase humidity around the plant. Regularly washing the leaves with water can also help control their population.
