Origin and Common Names
Dolichos buchananii Harms, also known as the Buchanan's Bean or Wild Bean, is a legume plant species in the Fabaceae family. It is commonly found in tropical Africa, specifically in countries like Ghana, Cameroon, and Nigeria.Uses
Although it is not a popular food crop, some communities in Africa use the plant's leaves and seeds for food. The plant is also used in traditional medicine to treat ailments like fever, stomach aches, and wounds. In addition, the seeds are a good source of protein, and the plant is used as a cover crop in farming to improve soil fertility.Appearance
Dolichos buchananii Harms is a climbing plant that grows up to 4 meters in length. The leaves are composed of three oval or elliptical leaflets, and the flowers are a bright pink to light purple color. The plant produces long, flat, and curved pods that contain up to six seeds. The seeds are black and small, with a hard outer coat.Light Requirements
The plant Dolichos buchananii requires full sun to partial shade to grow well. It can grow under direct sunlight but may require a bit of shade during the hottest part of the day. In areas with intense sunlight, it is best to grow this plant under partial shade.
Temperature Requirements
Dolichos buchananii grows best in tropical to sub-tropical climates. It is a warm-season plant that requires a temperature range of 20°C to 35°C for successful growth. The ideal temperature for this plant is about 25°C to 30°C. It cannot withstand frost or very low temperatures, and so it cannot grow outdoors in areas with extremely cold climates.
Soil Requirements
The plant thrives in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clayey soils. A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (6.0-7.5) is the best for growing Dolichos buchananii. It requires regular watering, but the soil should not be waterlogged or too soggy as this may result in root rot.
Cultivation
Dolichos buchananii Harms is a woody climbing vine that is native to tropical Africa. It can reach a height of up to 20 feet when supported by other vegetation or structures. It is a warm-weather plant and requires temperatures above 55°F for germination. It is best grown in areas with an average temperature of 70°F -85°F. When planting, ensure that the soil pH is between 6 and 7.5, and the soil is well-draining.
Watering Needs
During the growing season, Dolichos buchananii Harms needs regular and consistent watering. The plant requires about 1-2 inches of water per week. It is best to avoid overhead watering because this can cause fungal diseases. Instead, water at the base of the plant to prevent wetting the leaves. Mulching around the plant can also help retain moisture in the soil, minimizing the frequency of watering.
Fertilization
Fertilization is essential for the growth and development of Dolichos buchananii Harms. The plant relies on nutrients from the soil, and regular fertilization ensures the soil has enough nutrients. When planting, it is advisable to add compost or well-rotted manure to the soil to improve its fertility. Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are the primary nutrients needed for plant growth. During the growing season, apply fertilizer rich in these nutrients about every three weeks to promote healthy plant growth.
Pruning
Pruning Dolichos buchananii Harms is essential to promote healthy growth and maintain the plant's shape. The best time to prune the plant is in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Trim away any dead or damaged stems, as well as any stems crossing over each other. This will prevent the plant from becoming tangled and promote healthy airflow, which can reduce the risk of fungal infections. If the plant becomes too long or the stems become too thick, prune branches to control the size and shape of the plant.
Propagation of Dolichos buchananii Harms
Dolichos buchananii Harms, also known as the Buchanan's Cowpea, is a species of climbing plant, commonly found in tropical Africa and Asia. The plant is grown for its edible beans, which are rich in protein and other essential nutrients. Propagation of Dolichos buchananii Harms can be done through several methods.
Seed propagation
The most common method of propagating Dolichos buchananii Harms is through seed. The beans produced by the plant can be harvested and used for propagation. The seeds should be allowed to dry before sowing. The seeds can be planted directly in the ground or in containers such as seed trays. The ideal temperature for germination is 20-30°C. The seeds should be planted at a depth of 2-3 times their length and watered regularly.
Cuttings propagation
Dolichos buchananii Harms can also be propagated through cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants during the growing season. The cuttings should be 10-15 cm in length and should be taken from the tips of the shoots. The leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in a rooting hormone before planting. The cuttings should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist. They should be placed in a warm, shaded area until they have rooted.
Air layering propagation
Air layering is another propagation method that can be used for Dolichos buchananii Harms. This method involves making a cut in a branch of the plant and applying a rooting hormone to the area. A ball of moist sphagnum moss is wrapped around the cut, and the area is covered with plastic. Roots will form at the cut and the plant can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted once the roots have developed.
Disease and Pest Management for Dolichos buchananii Harms
Dolichos buchananii Harms, commonly known as Buchanan's Coral Bean, is a deciduous flowering shrub that belongs to the Fabaceae family. This plant is usually grown as an ornamental plant due to its beautiful red-colored flowers that bloom during the summer season. However, like most plants, it is also susceptible to diseases and pests. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that causes circular or irregular spots on the leaves, which may turn yellow and drop prematurely. To manage this disease, remove and destroy the infected leaves and stems and avoid watering the plant from overhead.
Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that causes a powdery white or gray coating on the leaves and stems. To manage this disease, improve air circulation around the plant, remove and destroy infected plant parts, and use fungicides if needed.
Root rot: This is a fungal disease that affects the roots and causes stunted growth, wilting, and yellowing of the leaves. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering the plant and improve the soil drainage.
Pests
Leaf-feeding caterpillars: These pests feed on the leaves, causing irregular holes or patterns on them. To manage these pests, handpick them from the plant or use biological control methods like introducing natural predators like birds or insects.
Scales: These pests attach themselves to the stems and leaves of the plant and suck the sap, causing yellowing, wilting, and premature dropping of the leaves. To manage these pests, remove and destroy the infested plant parts or use insecticides.
Spider mites: These pests are tiny and difficult to spot with the naked eye, but they cause yellowing, wilting, and webbing on the leaves. To manage these pests, improve the humidity around the plant and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Regular inspection of the plant for any signs of diseases or pests can help prevent them from spreading. Proper care and maintenance of the plant, such as providing adequate water, sunlight, and nutrients, can also improve its overall health and make it less susceptible to diseases and pests.
