Overview
Dolichos carnosus A.Chev. is a plant species that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is known by various common names such as Nitta tree, Snake bean, Lima bean and Bonavist bean. The plant is primarily cultivated for its edible seeds and pods and has a range of uses.
Origin
The plant is native to tropical West Africa, but it has been introduced in various parts of Asia, including China, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. It is also being cultivated in some parts of South America and the Caribbean.
Appearance
Dolichos carnosus A.Chev. is a climbing vine that can grow up to 10 meters in height. Its leaves are trifoliate, with leaflets measuring about 7-12 cm in length and 4-7 cm in width. The plant produces long pods that are cylindrical and slightly curved. The pods can grow to be between 25-40 cm in length and 2-3 cm in width. The seeds are large and oblong-shaped, measuring about 15-20 mm in length and 11-13 mm in width.
Uses
The plant is primarily cultivated for its edible seeds and pods. The seeds are a good source of protein, fiber, and various nutrients such as potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus. The leaves of the plant can also be used as a vegetable and are a good source of vitamin C. Additionally, the plant is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as malaria, diabetes, and high blood pressure. The pods of the plant are also used as animal feed.
In some cultures, the plant is also used for decorative purposes due to its attractive appearance. Bonavist bean is known for its vigorous growth and can be used to create cool shaded areas that are perfect for relaxing and entertaining.
Light conditions
Dolichos carnosus A.Chev. thrives in full sun or partial shade. To produce good yield, it requires at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature requirements
The plant grows best in warm temperatures with a minimum of 16°C and maximum of 35°C.
Soil requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soil with a pH ranging from 6.0-7.5. It can grow well in a variety of soil types such as clay, loamy, or sandy soil. The soil also needs to be enriched with organic matter for optimum growth and yield.
Cultivation
Dolichos carnosus A.Chev., also known as purple hyacinth bean, is a warm-season vine that grows well in tropical and subtropical regions. The plant prefers well-drained, fertile soil and full sun exposure. It can be grown using seeds, which should be directly planted into the soil after the frost has passed. The plant can reach a height of 10-15 feet, so ensure sufficient support is available.
Watering Needs
Purple hyacinth bean requires regular watering for healthy growth. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. It is advisable to water the plant in the morning to allow sufficient time for the leaves to dry off before nightfall. During dry spells or hot weather, the plant may require more frequent watering.
Fertilization
The plant responds well to fertilizers, particularly those rich in phosphorus and potassium. Fertilization should be done during the growing season to enhance the plant's growth and flowering. A balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 5-10-5 can be used. Apply the fertilizer two weeks after planting and repeat it every four to six weeks or as needed.
Pruning
Pruning can help to promote the plant's growth and enhance its appearance. It is essential to control the plant's size and prevent it from overgrowing. Remove the overgrown or damaged stems and leaves to keep the plant healthy. Ensure that pruning is done early in the growing season to avoid hindering the plant's flowering.
Propagation of Dolichos carnosus A.Chev.
Dolichos carnosus A.Chev., commonly known as the Winged Bean, is a tropical plant that is widely cultivated for its edible pods, seeds, and leaves. Propagation of this plant can be done through various methods, which are discussed below:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Dolichos carnosus is through seeds. The seeds are usually collected from mature pods and should be sown during the rainy season. The seeds can be directly sown in the field or in nursery beds. If sown in nursery beds, the seedlings are transplanted to the field after 4-6 weeks. The seeds usually germinate within 10-14 days.
Vegetative Propagation
Dolichos carnosus can also be propagated through vegetative means. This method involves the use of stem cuttings or root cuttings. Stem cuttings should be taken from mature plants and should be about 30 cm long. The cuttings should be treated with rooting hormones and planted in a rooting medium such as sand or soil. Root cuttings should be taken from mature roots and planted in a well-drained soil medium. The cuttings should be kept moist until they start to produce new growth.
Air Layering
Air layering is another method of propagating Dolichos carnosus. This method involves creating a wound on a mature stem and covering the wound with moist soil or rooting medium. Roots will develop at the wound site, and the stem can be cut and transplanted after the roots have grown sufficiently.
Grafting
Grafting is another method of propagating Dolichos carnosus. This method involves taking a scion from a mature plant and grafting it onto a seedling rootstock. The scion should be chosen from a healthy and disease-free plant, and the grafting should be done by a skilled grafter. This method is usually used for propagation of hybrid varieties.
Overall, propagation of Dolichos carnosus A.Chev. can be done through various methods, including seed propagation, vegetative propagation, air layering, and grafting. The choice of method depends on the availability of planting materials and the desired outcome.
Disease and Pest Management for Dolichos carnosus A.Chev.
Dolichos carnosus A.Chev. is a robust, twining, and herbaceous vine that grows up to 5 meters long. It is commonly cultivated for its edible green pods that are used in many culinary dishes. However, the plant is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect the yield and quality of the crop.
Common Diseases
1. Anthracnose - This fungal disease causes small, circular, and sunken spots with a dark brown margin on leaves, stems, and pods. The affected tissues eventually rot and drop off, leading to defoliation and reduced yield. To manage anthracnose, remove and destroy the infected plant debris, ensure adequate spacing between plants, and spray with a copper-based fungicide.
2. Powdery Mildew - Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white or gray powdery growth on the leaves and pods, leading to stunted growth and reduced yield. To control powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering, ensure adequate air circulation through pruning and spacing, and treat with a sulfur-based fungicide.
3. Bacterial Wilt - This bacterial disease infects the plant through wounds or natural openings, causing wilting, yellowing, and death of the plant. To control bacterial wilt, practice crop rotation, remove and destroy the infected plants, and treat with copper-based bactericides.
Common Pests
1. Aphids - These small, pear-shaped insects suck the sap from the plant, causing curling and yellowing of the leaves, and stunted growth. To manage aphids, introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil, or use reflective mulch.
2. Cutworms - Cutworms are the caterpillar form of several moth species that feed on the stem at or below the soil surface, causing wilting and death of the plant. To manage cutworms, till the soil to expose and kill the pupae, reduce the moisture level by avoiding overwatering, and treat with Bacillus thuringiensis.
3. Spider Mites - Spider mites are tiny, eight-legged creatures that suck sap from the plant, causing stippling, yellowing, and webbing on the leaves. To control spider mites, spray with a miticide, increase humidity through frequent misting, or introduce beneficial insects like predatory mites.
By implementing these disease and pest management strategies, you can ensure a healthy and productive Dolichos carnosus A.Chev. crop.
