Origin
Dolichos brevidentatus Mackinder, commonly known as the Mackinder's dolichos, is a plant species that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to Central and Eastern Africa, particularly found in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Tanzania.
Common Names
Aside from the Mackinder's dolichos, this plant species is also called as the African dolichos or African scented bean.
Uses
The seeds of Dolichos brevidentatus Mackinder are edible and are known to have excellent nutritional values, particularly rich in protein, fiber, and minerals. In some African communities, such as Ethiopia, the seeds are cooked with spices and herbs to make a traditional dish. Aside from its nutritional value, it is also used as a shade plant, cover crop, and soil improver due to its nitrogen fixation ability. This plant species also has medicinal uses, particularly in treating gastrointestinal and respiratory tract infections.
General Appearance
The Dolichos brevidentatus Mackinder is a herbaceous climbing plant that can grow up to 2-3 meters long. Its stems are slender and covered with short hairs. The leaves are compound, with three leaflets that are oval-shaped and slightly hairy on both sides. The flowers are pea-like and range from white or pink to lavender in color. The fruits are elongated pods that can reach up to 10 centimeters long and contain several small seeds inside.
Light Requirements
The Dolichos brevidentatus plant prefers bright indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight. When grown indoors, it should be placed near a window that receives several hours of sunlight each day. However, exposure to direct sunlight for prolonged periods can scorch the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Dolichos brevidentatus is between 15°C and 30°C (59°F - 86°F). This plant cannot tolerate extreme temperatures, and it should be kept in a warm and humid environment that is not subjected to sudden temperature fluctuations. During winter, the plant should be kept away from cold drafty areas or windows to prevent leaf drop and stunted growth.
Soil Requirements
The Dolichos brevidentatus plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and nutrients. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, and it should be allowed to partially dry before the next watering. Do not let the soil dry out completely as it will cause the plant to wilt and hinder its growth. Adding perlite or sand to the soil mix will improve drainage and prevent soil compaction.
Cultivation Methods for Dolichos Brevidentatus Mackinder
Dolichos Brevidentatus Mackinder is an annual plant that is native to the Rift Valley region in Kenya. It grows well in warm and humid climates with well-drained soil. The plant can be propagated either from seeds or by cuttings.
If you plan to cultivate this plant from seeds, you should sow them directly in the soil after the last frost. Alternatively, you can start them indoors in the early spring and transplant them outdoors once the weather is warm enough.
Watering Needs for Dolichos Brevidentatus Mackinder
Dolichos Brevidentatus Mackinder requires regular watering to thrive. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged as the plant can be susceptible to root rot. You can check if the soil is dry by inserting your finger about an inch into the soil.
During the hot and dry summer months, you may need to water your plant every day to prevent it from drying out. However, you should reduce the frequency of watering during the cooler months.
Fertilization for Dolichos Brevidentatus Mackinder
It is important to fertilize Dolichos Brevidentatus Mackinder regularly to ensure it gets the nutrients it needs. You can use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Apply the fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season, starting in early spring until the end of the summer. Avoid fertilizing your plant during the winter months as it may not be actively growing.
Pruning for Dolichos Brevidentatus Mackinder
Dolichos Brevidentatus Mackinder does not require much pruning as it generally grows in a bushy and compact manner. However, if you notice any dead or damaged branches, you should prune them off immediately. This will prevent the plant from expending energy on the damaged branches and will promote healthy growth.
You can also prune your plant to control its size and shape. Pinching off the tips of the branches can encourage bushier and more compact growth.
Propagation of Dolichos brevidentatus Mackinder
Dolichos brevidentatus Mackinder, commonly known as the Maasai bean, is a legume that belongs to the Fabaceae family. The plant is native to East Africa and is grown for its edible seeds. Propagation of Dolichos brevidentatus Mackinder can be done through a number of methods including:
Seed propagation
The most common method of propagating Dolichos brevidentatus Mackinder is through seed propagation. The seeds can be sown directly into the ground or in seed trays for transplanting. Before planting, the seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours to encourage germination. The soil should be well-drained and fertile for optimal growth. Seedlings should be thinned out to allow for proper growth and spacing between plants.
Cuttings propagation
Cuttings can also be used to propagate Dolichos brevidentatus Mackinder. Softwood cuttings taken from young plants can be used to propagate the plant, and this works best during the rainy season. The cuttings should be around 10-15 cm long and should be dipped in a rooting hormone before planting. The cuttings should then be planted in well-draining soil, and kept moist until they have established roots.
Division propagation
Division propagation of Dolichos brevidentatus Mackinder can be done by dividing mature plants into smaller sections. This method works best during the rainy season when the plant is actively growing. The sections should be planted in well-drained soil and watered regularly until they are established.
Overall, Dolichos brevidentatus Mackinder is a relatively easy plant to propagate. The most common method is through seed propagation, but cuttings and division can also be used to propagate the plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Dolichos brevidentatus Mackinder
Dolichos brevidentatus Mackinder, also known as Mackinder's slender-stemmed bean, is a plant that requires proper disease and pest management techniques to ensure healthy growth. Here are some common diseases and pests that can affect this plant, as well as ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
1. Anthracnose: This disease can cause leaf spot, twig blight and fruit rot. It is caused by the fungus Colletotrichum lindemuthianum. To manage this disease, it is recommended to plant resistant varieties, ensure proper drainage, and avoid overcrowding the plants. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of the disease.
2. Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves and stems of the plant. To control this disease, it is important to plant the crop in well-drained soil and provide sufficient air circulation. Additionally, fungicides can be used to control the spread and development of the disease.
3. Bacterial blight: This disease can cause leaf spots, blights or browning and wilting of nodules on the plant roots. To manage this disease, it is important to remove and destroy infected plants and debris. Additionally, copper-based fungicides can be used to reduce the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
1. Aphids: These pests can cause stunted growth, yellowing or curling of leaves, and sticky residue on the leaves. To control aphids, it is recommended to squish them, prune heavily infected areas, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
2. Spider mites: These pests can cause webbing on leaves and twig and leaf discoloration. To control spider mites, it is recommended to increase the humidity around plants, maintain optimum plant health, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
3. Bean leaf beetles: These pests can cause skeletonization of leaves and defoliation of the plant. To control bean leaf beetles, it is recommended to remove and destroy severely infested plants, and use insecticidal sprays or baits.
By implementing the above-mentioned disease and pest management techniques, you can ensure the healthy growth of Dolichos brevidentatus Mackinder.
