Overview: Dioscorea schliebenii R.Knuth
Dioscorea schliebenii R.Knuth, commonly known as Schlieben's yam, is a plant species of the family Dioscoreaceae. It is native to tropical Africa, specifically in Cameroon, Gabon, and the Republic of Congo. The plant is a perennial woody vine that belongs to the group of plants commonly called "yam".
Description: General Appearance
The Dioscorea schliebenii R.Knuth is a robust vine that can grow up to 5 meters tall. Its stem, or tuber, is usually very thick and covered with dark brown bark. The leaves are alternate, cordate, and up to 15 cm long and 10 cm wide. The plant produces male and female flowers that are small and yellowish in color. The fruit is a capsule containing three to four seeds that are black and fleshy.
Uses
The Schlieben's yam is widely used as food, medicine, and ornamental plant. The tuber of the plant is highly nutritious, rich in starch, and is consumed by many African communities. The yam is praised for its high energy content, which makes it ideal in supporting the daily demands of laborious work in different parts of Africa. It is also used in traditional medicine and is believed to have a wide range of healing properties. The plant has also been cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its attractive leaves and flowers, particularly in Europe and North America.
Light Requirements
The Dioscorea schliebenii R.Knuth plant requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight per day and partial shade during hot afternoons. The plant can also thrive in areas with bright, indirect light. Therefore, it is best to grow the plant in a location that receives ample sunlight and partial shade.
Temperature Requirements
The Dioscorea schliebenii R.Knuth plant requires warm temperatures, with a temperature range of 18°C to 35°C. The plant cannot tolerate freezing temperatures, and frost can damage or kill it. Therefore, it is best to grow the plant in an area with a consistently warm temperature.
Soil Requirements
The Dioscorea schliebenii R.Knuth plant grows best in well-drained and fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. It is best to incorporate compost and other organic matter into the soil before planting the Dioscorea schliebenii R.Knuth plant. The plant does not tolerate standing water, so it is essential to ensure that the soil has good drainage.
Cultivation Methods of Dioscorea Schliebenii R.Knuth
Dioscorea schliebenii R.Knuth, also known as an African yam, is a hardy perennial vine that is native to tropical West Africa. This plant is mainly propagated by the use of tubers, seeds, or stem cuttings.
It is important to note that yams grow best in warm temperatures with at least six hours of sunlight per day. Therefore, the best time to plant is in the early summer when the temperature is warmer. Before planting, prepare the soil by adding compost to improve fertility and drainage.
The plant should be grown in an area where there is support for its climbing vines. The use of a trellis or stake is vital as it helps to support the plant and keep it off the ground.
Watering Needs for Dioscorea Schliebenii R.Knuth
African yam requires consistent and regular watering. The plants should be watered at least twice a week depending on the humidity and temperature. During dry spells, the plants should be watered more frequently to prevent drying out and wilting.
It is important to water the plants in the morning or late afternoon when the temperature is cooler. This ensures that the plant has ample time to absorb and use the water before the heat returns. Also, avoid overwatering as this can cause the roots to rot and, ultimately, cause the plant’s death.
Fertilization of Dioscorea Schliebenii R.Knuth
The application of fertilizers is essential to the growth and development of African yam. The use of organic fertilizers such as manure, compost, or bone meal is highly recommended as they provide essential nutrients and improve soil fertility.
Fertilizers should be applied twice during the growing season, once at planting and another at mid-season. Apply the fertilizers just before heavy rains or irrigation to allow it to penetrate the soil.
Pruning of Dioscorea Schliebenii R.Knuth
Pruning is not necessary for African yam, but it can help control the growth of the plant and improve yield. Prune the plants during the growing season to control vines’ growth and maintain a desirable shape.
Remove any dead or diseased parts of the plant to prevent the spread of diseases. Additionally, regular pruning increases airflow, which helps to prevent fungal diseases, and allows for better light penetration.
Propagation of Dioscorea schliebenii R.Knuth
Dioscorea schliebenii R.Knuth, also known as Ethiopian potato, is a climber native to Africa, particularly in Ethiopia. It produces underground tubers that are used as a food source. Propagation of Dioscorea schliebenii R.Knuth is mainly done vegetatively.
Vine cuttings
One common propagation method for Dioscorea schliebenii R.Knuth is through vine cuttings. This involves taking a cutting from an existing plant's vine and growing it into a new plant. It is best to take cuttings in the stem's middle part, where it is soft and flexible, making it easier to root. The vine cuttings should be planted vertically or at a slanted angle. Cut the lower and older leaves, leaving only one or two young leaves at the tip of the stem. One advantage of propagating through vine cuttings is that it is easy to produce many plants in a short amount of time.
Tubers
Another method of propagating Dioscorea schliebenii R.Knuth is through tubers, which are the plant's underground storage organ. These tubers can be planted whole or cut into pieces. When cutting the tuber, each piece must have at least one eye or bud. After cutting, the pieces should be left to dry for a day or two to avoid rotting. Plant the tubers in well-drained soil, preferably sandy loam. Water the plant regularly and ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Dioscorea schliebenii R.Knuth is mainly propagated through vine cuttings and tubers. Vine cuttings are easy to produce, while tubers allow for the preservation and sharing of genetic material. Whatever method is chosen, it is essential to ensure that the plant receives adequate water, light, and nutrients for successful growth and development.
Disease Management
Dioscorea schliebenii R.Knuth is susceptible to several fungal diseases, including anthracnose, stem, and root rot. To manage anthracnose, remove and destroy diseased plant material, plant in well-draining soil, and apply a fungicide. Stem rot is best managed by ensuring that the plant has adequate space, air circulation, and water. Root rot can be managed by avoiding overwatering, plant in well-draining soil, and apply a fungicide.
Pest Management
Common pests that affect Dioscorea schliebenii R.Knuth are rodents, snails, and slugs. To control rodents, place traps or baits around the plants, remove any debris, and keep the area clean. To reduce snail and slug populations, remove their hiding places, such as piles of leaves or debris, and handpick them from the plant when possible. If necessary, apply a slug or snail bait around the perimeter of the plant.
