Origin of Dolichos erectus Baker f.
Dolichos erectus Baker f. is a species of flowering plant in the family Fabaceae, which is native to tropical Africa, specifically to countries such as Cameroon, Benin, Ghana, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone.
Common Names of Dolichos erectus Baker f.
Dolichos erectus Baker f. has several common names, including climbing bean, stick bean, and elephant ear bean. In Nigeria, it is called akoningbo in Yoruba and ayoyo in Hausa.
Uses of Dolichos erectus Baker f.
The climbing bean is primarily used as a vegetable or a legume crop. The seeds of Dolichos erectus Baker f. are sometimes used as a substitute for coffee beans. The plant also has medicinal uses in traditional African medicine, where it is known to be an effective remedy for ailments such as diarrhea, dysentery, and bronchitis.
General Appearance of Dolichos erectus Baker f.
Dolichos erectus Baker f. is a perennial climbing plant that can grow up to 5 meters in length. The stems are slender and brown in color, while the leaves are glossy green, ovate, and trifoliate with a length of up to 15 cm. The flowers are white or pink with purple markings and grow in clusters of up to 10. The beans are oblong and hairy, and the pods are 20 to 30 cm in length.
Growth Conditions for Dolichos Erectus Baker f.
Dolichos Erectus Baker f. is a heat-loving plant that thrives well under full sunlight. It is also known as Sigmoid bush bean and grows as a subshrub which can reach a height of up to 1 meter. Being a tropical plant, it requires warm conditions for germination and growth.
Light Requirements
The plant requires full sunlight exposure for optimum growth. The light intensity should be able to provide at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. Insufficient light may cause poor growth and stunted development of the plant.
Temperature Requirements
The Dolichos Erectus Baker f. plant has a warm temperature requirement. The ideal temperature for its growth and development should be between 23°C to 30°C. Any temperature fluctuations should be minor, and it cannot withstand frost or cold temperatures. They prefer warm, humid, and frost-free environments.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers sandy loam soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It also thrives well in well-drained soils with good organic matter content. The soil should be light but rich in nutrients, and it should not hold water for long periods. Excess water can lead to root rot.
Additionally, the Dolichos Erectus Baker f. is a legume plant that is capable of fixing atmospheric nitrogen through rhizobia bacteria. Therefore, it is not necessary to fertilize it with nitrogen. However, other nutrients such as phosphorus should be supplemented for optimum growth.
Cultivation methods
Dolichos erectus Baker f. is a vigorous perennial plant native to tropical Africa and widely distributed throughout the tropics and subtropics of the world. The plant can be grown either as an annual or perennial, depending on the climatic zone and the local weather conditions.
The plant should be placed in a warm, sunny location with well-drained soil. It needs regular watering and adequate nutrients to thrive. The plant can be propagated from seeds or stem cuttings.
For optimal growth, the plant should be grown in a soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.8.
Watering needs
Dolichos erectus Baker f. requires regular watering throughout the growth period. The plant prefers a moist soil but does not tolerate waterlogging. Overwatering can cause the plant to develop root rot and other diseases.
The amount of water required depends on the local weather conditions. In dry climates, the plant may require daily watering, while in humid climates, two to three times per week may be sufficient.
Fertilization
Dolichos erectus Baker f. requires regular fertilization to produce abundant foliage and flowers. The plant responds well to balanced fertilizers containing equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
The fertilizer should be applied every four to six weeks during the growing season. The amount of fertilizer required depends on the quality of the soil and the growth phase of the plant. Too much fertilizer can damage the roots and affect the plant's growth.
Pruning
Dolichos erectus Baker f. requires regular pruning to maintain an upright growth habit and prevent the plant from becoming too tall and spindly. Pruning should be done after the plant has finished flowering.
The plant should be pruned back by one-third to one-half of its length. The pruning should be done above a leaf node, and care should be taken not to damage the main stem.
Pruning promotes the growth of new branches and encourages the plant to produce more flowers. The cuttings and pruning waste can be used for propagation or added to the compost pile.
Propagation of Dolichos erectus Baker f.
Dolichos erectus Baker f. can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings, and layering.
Propagation through seeds
Seeds should be sown during the warm season in well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1 to 2 cm and spaced 15 to 20 cm apart. The germination period can range from 6 to 12 days, and seedlings can be transplanted after 2 to 3 weeks.
Propagation through stem cuttings
Stem cuttings taken from young, healthy plants can be used for propagation. The cuttings should be 15 to 20 cm long and should be taken at a 45-degree angle. The leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed, and the cutting should be planted in well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The cuttings should be watered regularly, and roots should develop within 3 to 4 weeks.
Propagation through layering
Propagation through layering involves bending a low hanging branch down to the soil, burying a portion of it, and then waiting for roots to form at the buried portion. Once roots have formed, the branch can be cut and planted in well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Layering can be done during the warm season and can take 4 to 6 weeks for roots to develop.
Disease and Pest Management for Dolichos Erectus Baker f.
Diseases: Dolichos erectus Baker f., also known as the climbing bean, is susceptible to various diseases that can negatively impact its growth and development.
Bean Common Mosaic Virus: This virus is a common problem among beans and can result in stunted plant growth, yellowing of leaves and an overall reduction in yield. To prevent this virus, growers should ensure that all seeds are certified virus-free and should remove any affected plants immediately.
Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes large brown lesions on the leaves, stems, and pods, leading to a wilting of the plant. To prevent anthracnose, growers should practice crop rotation, avoid overhead watering, and use fungicides.
Pests: Pests can also pose a threat to the health and growth of Dolichos erectus Baker f.
Aphids: These tiny insects are often found on the undersides of leaves, causing wilting, yellowing, and distortion of plant growth. To prevent aphids, growers can use insecticidal soap or a strong jet of water to wash them off.
Flea Beetles: These beetles have a tendency to consume the leaves and stems of Dolichos erectus Baker f., causing significant damage to the plant. To prevent flea beetles, growers can use row covers, plant early, and use insecticides.
Cutworms: These pests are most active during the night and can cause significant damage to the growing plant by cutting through the stem at or just below the soil line. To prevent cutworms, growers can use collar barriers or apply insecticides.
In conclusion, Dolichos erectus Baker f. can be affected by various diseases and pests that can significantly impact growth and yield. However, implementing appropriate management strategies such as crop rotation, the use of certified virus-free seeds, and applying insecticides can effectively prevent their occurrence and ensure the plant's overall health.
