Overview of Diplazium esculentum
Diplazium esculentum (Retz.) Sw. is a fern species that belongs to the family Athyriaceae. It is commonly known as Vegetable fern, Paku-pakis, Pucuk paku, and Endeh-loloh in different regions. Native to Southeast Asia, the plant is widely distributed in countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines.
Appearance of Diplazium esculentum
Diplazium esculentum is a perennial fern that grows up to 1.5 meters tall. The plant has a rhizome that is about 1cm in diameter and brownish in color. The leaves of the plant are about 0.5-1 meters long and 20-30cm wide. The leaf stalks are grooved, and the leaf blades are pinnately divided into narrow and pointed segments that are about 8-15cm long.
Uses of Diplazium esculentum
Diplazium esculentum is a popular vegetable in many Southeast Asian countries. The young leaves and shoots of the plant are harvested and consumed as a vegetable. The plant is rich in nutrients such as vitamins A and C, calcium, and iron. It is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as fever, diarrhea, and stomach problems. The plant is also used for landscaping and ornamental purposes due to its attractive fronds.
In conclusion, Diplazium esculentum is an important plant species that is valued for both its nutritional and medicinal properties. Its unique appearance also makes it a popular ornamental plant in many regions around the world.
Light Requirements
Diplazium esculentum requires partial to full shade for optimal growth. It is not tolerant of direct sunlight and should be grown in an area with filtered or diffused light. Too much sun can scorch the leaves and cause the plant to wilt.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Diplazium esculentum is between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius. The plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 10 degrees Celsius but growth may be slowed. Temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius may cause the leaves to wilt and the plant to suffer. It is important to maintain a consistent temperature range to promote healthy growth.
Soil Requirements
Diplazium esculentum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH range of 5.5 to 7.5 is ideal for this plant. It can tolerate slightly acidic soil but may suffer in alkaline conditions. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, as waterlogging can cause root rot. Adding organic matter to the soil can help retain moisture and provide essential nutrients for growth.
Cultivation
Diplazium esculentum, also known as vegetable fern or pakô, is a type of edible fern widely cultivated in Asia. This fern thrives in warm and humid conditions, making it suitable for tropical and subtropical areas. To cultivate Diplazium esculentum, you need to provide it with a favorable environment, adequate water, and nutrients.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Diplazium esculentum are moderate. This fern requires consistent moisture but can't tolerate waterlogged soils. Therefore, you should aim to keep its soil moist but not water-saturated. You can achieve this by watering it at regular intervals and avoiding creating puddles in its soil. During the rainy season, you may reduce the frequency of watering, while in dry periods, you may need to water the fern more often.
Fertilization
To ensure optimal growth and productivity, Diplazium esculentum requires regular fertilization. You can use organic or inorganic fertilizers once every three months. However, over-fertilizing can harm this fern, so be cautious not to overdo it. You can apply the fertilizer around the fern's base or gently sprinkle it over its soil. After fertilization, water the fern thoroughly to distribute the nutrients evenly.
Pruning
Diplazium esculentum may develop bushy canopies that block sunlight from the lower parts. To prevent that, you should prune the fern occasionally to remove the excess foliage. Pruning also helps to shape the fern and keep it within manageable size. You can cut the unwanted fronds at the base using a sharp pruning tool. To reduce the risk of contamination, you should sterilize the pruning tool before and after use.
Propagation of Diplazium esculentum (Retz.) Sw.
Diplazium esculentum (Retz.) Sw., commonly known as Vegetable fern or Paku-pakis, is propagated through various methods such as spores, division, and tissue culture.
Propagation by spores:
Spore propagation is the most common method of propagating Diplazium esculentum. Spores are collected from mature fronds and sown on a moist surface. It is essential to keep the surface moist and well-ventilated to prevent fungal growth. The spores will germinate into small gametophytes, which develop into ferns.
Propagation by division:
Division is another method of propagating Diplazium esculentum. The plant is dug up and divided into smaller pieces, each with roots and fronds. The smaller plants are then replanted in a well-prepared bed with fertile soil and good drainage.
Propagation by tissue culture:
Tissue culture is a modern method of propagating Diplazium esculentum. It involves taking tissue samples from the plant and growing them in a laboratory under sterile conditions. The tissue samples are grown on nutrient media containing plant hormones and growth regulators. The tissue cultures are then transferred into pots for acclimatization.
Regardless of the method used, Diplazium esculentum requires warm, humid conditions and adequate moisture for successful propagation.
Disease Management
The Diplazium esculentum plant is mainly susceptible to fungal diseases, which are caused by excessive moisture and humidity. The common fungal diseases that affect the plant include leaf spot, root rot, and powdery mildew.
To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy affected plant parts, ensure proper plant spacing to allow enough air circulation, and avoid overhead watering. For root rot, remove and destroy affected plants, improve soil drainage, and avoid overwatering. To manage powdery mildew, spray the plant with a mixture of baking soda and water or neem oil, avoid overhead watering, and ensure proper plant spacing.
Pest Management
Diplazium esculentum is also susceptible to insect pests such as scales, mealybugs, and spider mites. These pests can cause wilting, yellowing and stunted growth of the plant.
To manage these pests, prune and remove affected plant parts, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and improve cultural practices such as proper plant spacing and regular watering. Additionally, introducing natural enemies such as ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps can help control insect pests.
