Overview of Dolichos genistiformis Chiov.
Dolichos genistiformis Chiov. is a flowering plant belonging to the Fabaceae family, commonly known as the showy dolichos. This plant is native to Africa and is widely distributed in several African countries, including Ethiopia, Sudan, Tanzania, and Botswana. The plant thrives in arid and semi-arid regions of Africa and can be found growing in rocky, dry, and sandy soils.
General Appearance of Dolichos genistiformis Chiov.
Dolichos genistiformis Chiov. is a perennial woody climber that can grow up to 10 meters long. The plant's stem is slender and twining, with greenish-grey bark and numerous tendrils. Its leaves are thin and elliptic, with a pointed tip and rounded base, and are dark green in color. The plant produces spectacular pink, purple, or violet flowers that are clustered in racemes at the end of branches. The flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies and are followed by bumpy, elongated seedpods.
Common Names of Dolichos genistiformis Chiov.
Dolichos genistiformis Chiov. has many other common names, including:
- ?Kharos (Nama)
- Iburgi (Kikuyu)
- Kana Kaba (Amharic)
- Lengalengwe (Tswana)
- Lentera (Cushitic)
- Makomboki (Kamba)
- Mwavuli (Swahili)
- Ndutu (Turkana)
- Sambiri (Shona)
Uses of Dolichos genistiformis Chiov.
Dolichos genistiformis Chiov. has several traditional and medicinal uses:
- The plant's young shoots, pods, and leaves are edible and are used as vegetables in some African countries.
- It is used in traditional medicine to treat various diseases such as fever, malaria, liver and kidney problems, and wounds.
- The plant is used as a source of fiber to make ropes, baskets, and other craft items.
- It is used in landscaping as an ornamental climber due to its attractive flowers and foliage.
Light Requirements
Dolichos genistiformis is highly adapted to grow in areas with plenty of sunlight. It requires bright and direct sunlight to thrive. Inadequate light will result in stunted growth, making it difficult for the plant to produce the lush, green foliage that characterizes it. Therefore, it is essential to place the plant in a sunny location, preferably an area that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight every day.
Temperature Requirements
For optimal growth, Dolichos genistiformis requires warm temperatures that range between 18°C to 25°C. It is a tropical plant that is sensitive to cold temperatures, and exposure to frost can cause severe damage to the plant's foliage and roots. Therefore, it is essential to protect the plant during the colder months of the year, either by bringing it indoors or covering it with protective clothing. On the other hand, high temperatures above 27°C can cause dehydration, wilting, and leaf scorch, making it essential to provide enough shade during hot days.
Soil Requirements
Dolichos genistiformis thrives in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH should be between 5.8 and 7.2. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils, but it grows best in loamy soils that retain some moisture while draining excess water. Before planting, it is vital to prepare the soil by adding compost or aged manure, which will provide essential nutrients and improve soil structure. Additionally, mulching around the plant with organic materials such as straw or grass clippings will help retain soil moisture and suppress weed growth.
Cultivation Methods
Dolichos genistiformis Chiov, commonly known as the Egyptian Bean or Mosaic Bean, is a herbaceous annual plant that is easy to grow. The plant thrives in areas with warm temperatures and can be grown in well-drained soils. It requires full sun exposure for optimal growth and flowering.
This plant grows best when directly sown to the ground, as transplanting may cause stress and damage to the roots. Sow the seeds in early spring after the threat of frost has passed. To enhance seed germination, soak the beans in warm water overnight before sowing. Plant the seeds at a depth of about 1 inch and space them about 4 to 6 inches apart.
Watering Needs
The Egyptian Bean requires regular watering, especially during dry spells. Keep the soil slightly moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply at least once a week, providing enough water to reach the root zone. Avoid overhead watering as this may cause the leaves to rot and promote the spread of fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Dolichos genistiformis Chiov. requires adequate fertilization to promote healthy growth and high yields. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Use a slow-release nitrogen-based fertilizer when planting the seeds to provide a steady supply of nutrients throughout the growth cycle.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to maintain the shape of the Egyptian Bean plant and improve air circulation. Remove the damaged, diseased, and dead stems and branches as soon as they appear. Pinch the tips of the plant when it reaches about 6 inches in height to promote bushier growth. Once the plant reaches about 1 foot tall, clip off the top of the stem to encourage the production of side shoots and more flowers.
Propagation of Dolichos genistiformis Chiov.
Dolichos genistiformis Chiov. commonly known as Ethiopian oak is propagated by seed and vegetative methods.
Propagation by seed
The seeds of Dolichos genistiformis Chiov. can be collected from mature pods during the months of November to January. The collected seeds are then cleaned, treated with a fungicide, and sown in a nursery bed. The soil in the nursery bed should be well-drained and fertile. The seeds should be sown 1-2 cm deep and watered regularly. Germination occurs in 10-15 days, and the seedlings are transplanted to individual pots when they are 3-4 months old.
Vegetative propagation
Dolichos genistiformis Chiov. can also be propagated vegetatively through cuttings. Semi-hardwood cuttings of 15-20 cm length with 2-3 nodes are collected during the months of July and August. The basal leaves are removed, and the cuttings are treated with a rooting hormone and planted in a rooting media consisting of sand, peat, and perlite in equal proportion. The cuttings are kept in a moist chamber, and rooting occurs in 30-40 days. Once the cuttings have rooted, they are transplanted into individual pots and kept in a shaded area for 3-4 months before planting in the field.
Disease and Pest Management for Dolichos genistiformis Chiov.
Dolichos genistiformis Chiov. is a leguminous plant that is commonly grown in several parts of Africa. Like other crops, the plant is susceptible to several diseases and pests that can cause significant economic losses. Fortunately, several disease and pest management strategies can help farmers to control the spread of diseases and pests and improve plant health and productivity.
Common Diseases
Dolichos genistiformis Chiov. can be attacked by a variety of diseases, and the severity of the disease varies depending on several factors, including the pathogen strain, environmental conditions, and plant susceptibility. Some common diseases that can affect Dolichos genistiformis Chiov. include:
- Bacterial blight: This is a common disease that affects many legumes, including Dolichos genistiformis Chiov. Infected plants develop water-soaked spots on leaves and stems, which eventually turn into dark, sunken lesions with yellow halos. To manage bacterial blight, farmers should practice crop rotation, use certified seeds, and avoid planting in areas with a history of the disease.
- Fusarium wilt: This is a fungal disease that causes wilting and yellowing of leaves, followed by the death of the plant. Fusarium wilt can survive in the soil for many years, and infected plants should be removed and destroyed. To manage Fusarium wilt, farmers should use disease-free seeds, avoid planting in infected soils, and rotate crops with non-host plants.
- Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that causes black spots on the leaves and pods, leading to defoliation and fruit rot. The disease spreads rapidly in wet and warm environments, and infected plants should be removed and destroyed. To manage Anthracnose, farmers should use resistant cultivars, avoid overhead irrigation, and practice good sanitation.
Common Pests
Dolichos genistiformis Chiov. can attract several pests, which can reduce plant productivity and quality. Some common pests that can affect Dolichos genistiformis Chiov. include:
- Aphids: These are small insects that suck sap from the plant, causing deformation and yellowing of leaves. Aphids secrete a sugary substance called honeydew, which attracts ants and promotes the growth of sooty mold. To manage aphids, farmers should encourage natural enemies (like ladybugs), remove weed hosts, and use insecticidal soap.
- Leafhoppers: These are small insects that cause yellowing and curling of leaves, resulting in stunted growth and reduced yield. Leafhoppers are attracted to leguminous plants, and population buildup can occur quickly. To manage leafhoppers, farmers should use sticky traps, use insecticidal soap, and remove weed hosts.
- Bean beetle: These are small beetles that feed on leaves, stems, and pods of Dolichos genistiformis Chiov. The damage caused by the pest can lead to reduced yield and quality. To manage Bean beetles, farmers should use row covers, handpick the beetles, and use insecticidal soap.
Overall, the key to managing pests and diseases in Dolichos genistiformis Chiov. is prevention. Farmers should practice good crop hygiene, use disease-free seeds, rotate crops, and eliminate weed hosts to reduce the potential for pests and diseases. Additionally, farmers can use cultural, biological, and chemical control methods to manage pests and diseases effectively.
