Origin
Dolichos emarginata P.Beauv. is a species of legume plant commonly found in the tropical regions of Africa, particularly in Sudan, Somalia, Ethiopia, and Kenya.
Common Names
The plant is known by several common names, including wild lablab, Egyptian bean, and hyacinth bean. In Kenya, it is referred to as njahi or mbura.
Uses
The plant has a long history of use in traditional African medicine, where it is used to treat a variety of ailments, including diarrhea, dysentery, and respiratory infections. The seeds are also used as a food source and can be prepared in a variety of ways, including boiling, roasting, and fermenting. Additionally, the plant is used as a forage crop for livestock and can be used to improve soil fertility due to its ability to fix nitrogen.
General Appearance
Dolichos emarginata P.Beauv. is a climbing, perennial plant that can reach up to 3 meters in height. The stem of the plant is thin and flexible, allowing it to climb and cling to nearby structures for support. The leaves are trifoliate, with each leaflet ranging from 1-10 cm in length and 1-5 cm in width. The flowers are purple or white and are produced in clusters. The fruit is a pod that can range in length from 5-15 cm and contains several seeds.
Growth conditions for Dolichos emarginata P.Beauv.
Dolichos emarginata P.Beauv. is a plant species that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is commonly found in tropical Africa and is known for its beautiful purple flowers and edible seeds. The plant usually grows as a vine and can reach a height of up to 10-20 feet.
Light requirements
The plant requires bright sunlight for most of the day to grow and thrive. It is recommended to place the plant in a spot that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight. Inadequate light can cause the plant to grow slowly and have stunted growth.
Temperature requirements
The plant grows well in warm and humid conditions. The ideal temperature for growth is between 20-30°C (68-86°F). If the temperature goes below 10°C (50°F), the plant may not survive. Therefore, it is important to protect the plant from extreme heat and cold by providing proper shade and insulation.
Soil requirements
The plant prefers well-drained, fertile, and slightly acidic soils. The pH should range from 6.0 to 7.0. The soil should be rich in organic matter and nutrients to support the plant's growth. Adding compost or other organic matter can help improve the soil quality. However, the plant can also tolerate poor soil conditions if it receives proper care and nutrients.
Cultivation Methods for Dolichos Emarginata P.Beauv.
The Dolichos emarginata P.Beauv. plant, commonly known as kidney bean, is cultivated as an annual in most regions. It thrives in well-draining soil that is composed of organic matter, sand, and loam in equal parts. Plant the seeds in a sunny location once the frost danger has passed, and make sure to space them 3-4 feet apart.
Watering Needs for Dolichos Emarginata P.Beauv.
To ensure proper growth, make sure the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water your kidney bean plants no more than once a week, depending on local weather conditions. During periods of drought or high temperatures, it may be necessary to water more frequently.
Fertilization of Dolichos Emarginata P.Beauv.
Widely available fertilizers with a balanced N-P-K ratio are suitable for Dolichos emarginata P.Beauv. plants. When the plants begin to bloom, they will benefit from a side dressing of 5-10-10 fertilizer worked into the soil around the plant's base. Reapply after four weeks to ensure continuous blooming.
Pruning Dolichos Emarginata P.Beauv.
Remove dead, damaged, or discolored leaves and stems from the plant. Dolichos emarginata P.Beauv. does not need extensive pruning, except for the removal of the occasional wayward stem. If necessary, cut back the plant's top after it completes flowering to stimulate further growth and branching.
Propagation of Dolichos emarginata P.Beauv.
Dolichos emarginata P.Beauv., commonly known as the tropical kidney bean or jack bean, belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is an annual legume crop with edible seeds and is widely cultivated in tropical regions for its high nutrient content and soil-improving properties. Propagation of this plant can be done through the following methods:
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method for propagating Dolichos emarginata. The seeds of this plant are large, hard, and have a thick seed coat. To facilitate germination, it is recommended to soak the seeds in water for at least 12 hours before planting. The seeds can be directly sown in the field or in seedbeds in well-drained soil.
The ideal temperature for seed germination is between 27-30°C, and the seeds should be kept moist during germination. The seedlings can be transplanted to the field when they have developed two to three true leaves. The spacing between plants should be around 30 cm to allow for proper growth.
Cuttings propagation
Cuttings propagation is another method that can be used to propagate Dolichos emarginata. This method involves taking stem cuttings from mature plants and planting them in a well-drained rooting medium. The cuttings should be taken from the upper part of the plant and should be at least 10-15 cm in length.
Before planting, the cuttings should be treated with a rooting hormone to improve the success rate of rooting. The rooting medium should be kept moist, and the cuttings should be kept in a shaded area until they have developed roots. Once roots have developed, they can be transplanted to the field.
Conclusion
Propagation of Dolichos emarginata P.Beauv. can be done through seed propagation or cuttings propagation. Both methods can be used to propagate this plant successfully, and the choice of method will depend on factors such as availability of planting material and the end use of the crop.
Disease and Pest Management for Dolichos emarginata P.Beauv.
Dolichos emarginata P.Beauv. is a legume plant that is commonly cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions. This plant is susceptible to various pests and diseases, which can affect its growth and yield. In this section, we will discuss the common diseases and pests that might affect Dolichos emarginata and suggest ways to manage them.
Diseases
Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause brown or black spots on leaves, stems, and pods. To manage anthracnose, remove infected plant parts and apply fungicides to prevent further spread.
Mosaic virus: This viral disease can cause yellowing and mottling of leaves, stunted growth, and reduced yield. There is no cure for mosaic virus, so infected plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent further spread.
Rust: This fungal disease can cause orange or brown spots on leaves and stems. To manage rust, remove infected plant parts and apply fungicides to prevent further spread.
Pests
Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from plant leaves and transmit viruses. To manage aphids, spray affected plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Cutworms: These larvae can cut through the stems of young plants, causing wilting and death. To manage cutworms, remove debris and weeds from the planting area and use wire collars or diatomaceous earth to protect seedlings.
Spider mites: These tiny insects can cause yellowing and stippling of leaves and reduce plant growth. To manage spider mites, spray affected plants with water and insecticidal soap or neem oil.
By using proper disease and pest management practices, growers can protect their Dolichos emarginata plants and promote healthy growth and yield.
