Overview
Dioscorea dusenii Uline, also known as Dusen's yam, is a climbing vine native to South America. It belongs to the family Dioscoreaceae, which is known for its starchy edible tubers. Dusen's yam has been cultivated for centuries for its medicinal properties and nutritious tubers.Appearance
Dusen's yam has elongated, heart-shaped leaves that are arranged alternately on its stem. The vines can grow up to six meters long and are supported by nearby trees or structures. The plant produces small yellow flowers that are arranged in clusters and have a faintly sweet fragrance. The underground tubers are the most distinctive feature of Dusen's yam. They can grow up to 1 meter in length and 20 cm in diameter, and can weigh up to 20 kg. The tubers are rough and brown on the outside, with a creamy white flesh on the inside. They can be eaten raw or cooked and have a starchy, slightly sweet taste.Common Names
Dusen's yam is also known as jicama de monte, cebú de monte, yacón de monte, and wild yam. In Colombia, it is referred to as Cuoré.Uses
Dusen's yam is used both as a food source and as a medicinal plant. The tubers are rich in complex carbohydrates, fiber, and minerals such as potassium, phosphorus, and iron. They are also a good source of antioxidants. In traditional medicine, the tubers are used to treat various ailments such as diabetes, hypertension, and arthritis. They are known for their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. The leaves and roots of Dusen's yam also have medicinal uses. Overall, Dusen's yam is an important plant in South American culture and cuisine. Its large, nutritious tubers and medicinal properties make it a valuable resource for local communities.Growth Conditions of Dioscorea dusenii Uline
Light: Dioscorea dusenii Uline thrives in partial shade or filtered sunlight. Direct and intense sunlight should be avoided as it can cause damage to the plant.
Temperature: The plant prefers warm and humid conditions to flourish. The temperature range that is suitable for Dioscorea dusenii Uline growth is 20°C to 30°C. It is sensitive to cold temperatures and should be protected from frost and freezing temperatures.
Soil: The plant requires well-drained and moist soil that is rich in nutrients. Sandy loam and clay soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5 are ideal for the growth of Dioscorea dusenii Uline. The soil should be rich in organic matter and have good water-holding capacity.
Water: Regular and moderate watering is necessary for the growth and survival of Dioscorea dusenii Uline. The plant should be watered when the top layer of the soil is dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while under watering can cause the plant to wilt and die.
Fertilizer: The plant should be fertilized during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer to ensure healthy growth and development. Excessive fertilization should be avoided as it can cause damage to the roots and leaves of the plant.
Propagation: Dioscorea dusenii Uline can be propagated through stem cuttings and seeds. Stem cuttings should be taken during the growing season and planted in well-draining soil. Seeds should be planted in a seedbed and kept moist until they germinate.
Pest and Diseases: The plant is prone to attack by pests and diseases such as mites, aphids, and fungal infections. Proper plant care, including regular watering and fertilization, can help prevent these issues. Chemical treatments can also be used as a last resort for pest control.
Cultivation Methods for Dioscorea dusenii Uline
Dioscorea dusenii Uline, commonly known as Yam, is a perennial plant that thrives in tropical climates. It is best grown in fertile, well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. When planting, ensure that the soil is deeply tilled to allow the roots to penetrate easily and receive enough nutrients.
The recommended planting method for yams is through vine cuttings. Cuttings should be planted directly into the soil, with an average spacing of about 1m x 1m. The planting should happen in early Spring, and planting holes should be filled up with fine soil.
Watering Needs for Dioscorea dusenii Uline
Yams are water-loving plants and require a regular supply of moisture throughout the growing season. A well-established yam plant should receive a minimum of one inch of water every week. The frequency of watering may vary depending on the climatic conditions, soil type, and the yam cultivar. It is always advisable to do a soil moisture test to determine water requirements.
In wet seasons with high rainfall, ensure that the soil drainage is sufficient, as yams are susceptible to waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Fertilization for Dioscorea dusenii Uline
Yams need a regular supply of essential nutrients for growth and development. A balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10:20:10 is recommended. The fertilizer should be applied at 2-3 weeks intervals, starting from when the vines begin to show. The application rate should be 150-200kg of fertilizer per acre.
For organic farmers, application of well-rotted manure or compost is enough to supply the soil with essential nutrients.
Pruning for Dioscorea dusenii Uline
Pruning yams is essential in controlling the growth and directing the available resources towards the production of tubers. Pruning should be done when the vines reach a length of about 1m. Ensure that you leave at least two healthy leaves on each stem after pruning. The process can help control diseases and pests, ensure aeration and improve ripening.
When harvesting, cut back all the vines at the soil level to allow unobstructed access to the tubers.
Propagation of Dioscorea dusenii Uline
Dioscorea dusenii Uline, commonly known as "wild yam," can be propagated through various methods. Here are some ways you can propagate this plant:
Seed Propagation
Seeds are the primary method for propagation of Dioscorea dusenii Uline. The seeds should be collected as soon as the fruit ripens and sown within a week for better germination rates. The seedbeds should be filled with well-drained, rich soil. The seeds should be planted about 1-2 cm deep into the soil and covered with a thin layer of soil. Keep the soil moist throughout the germination process, which typically takes 1-2 months.
Cuttings
Cuttings are another method of propagating Dioscorea dusenii Uline. Take cuttings from the nodal points with at least two nodes and plant them in a pot with soil. Cover the pot with a plastic bag and keep the soil moist to maintain humidity. After a few weeks, when the cutting has grown roots, you can transplant it into a larger pot or outside in a suitable location.
Division
Division is another method of propagating Dioscorea dusenii Uline. The plant can be divided into smaller sections and transplanted into a pot or outside location. Carefully loosen and remove the soil around the plant, and separate the plant into sections (containing both roots and shoots). Replant these sections in a pot or directly in the ground.
Air Layering
Air layering is a propagation method that encourages the plant to produce roots while still attached to the mother plant. This is done by selecting a stem and removing a circular section of bark about 5-10 cm long. The exposed stem should be covered with moist sphagnum moss and wrapped with plastic wrap to maintain humidity. After roots form, cut the stem below where the roots emerged and transplant it into a pot or in the ground.
With the right care and proper propagation method, Dioscorea dusenii Uline can be easily propagated, and growing multiple plants can be achieved in no time.
Disease and Pest Management for Dioscorea dusenii Uline
Dioscorea dusenii Uline is a plant that is native to South America and belongs to the family of Dioscoreaceae. The plant is prone to various diseases and pests that can damage its roots, leaves, and tubers. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that affect Dioscorea dusenii Uline and ways to manage them:
Diseases:
Fungal Diseases: The plant is highly susceptible to fungal diseases such as anthracnose, powdery mildew, and root rot. Anthracnose can cause dark spots on the leaves, while powdery mildew creates a white, powdery film on the leaves. Root rot, on the other hand, can cause the roots to rot and the plant to wilt.
Management: The best way to manage fungal diseases is to prevent them from occurring in the first place. Ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil and not overwatered. Additionally, maintain proper hygiene practices, such as pruning off diseased plant parts and avoiding watering the plant from above. If the disease persists, chemical fungicides or biologic fungicides can be used.
Pests:
Root Knot Nematode: The plant is susceptible to root knot nematodes. These pests burrow into the roots and cause gall-like structures, hindering the plant's growth and development.
Management: To prevent root knot nematodes, use nematode-resistant cultivars of Dioscorea dusenii Uline. Also, practice crop rotation and avoid planting the crop in the same soil where nematode-infected plants were present before. Chemical nematicides can also be used.
Scales and Mealybugs: These insects can cause yellowing of leaves and stunted growth of the plant. They can also excrete honeydew, which attracts ants.
Management: The best way to manage scales and mealybugs is to use insecticidal soaps and oils or neonicotinoid insecticides.
In conclusion, proper maintenance and care, along with timely disease and pest control measures, can help prevent and manage diseases and pests in the Dioscorea dusenii Uline plant.
