Origin of Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek
Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek is an edible bean that is native to West Africa. It is distributed across Nigeria, Cameroon, and Togo. In Nigeria, it is widely cultivated in the northern part of the country, especially in the states of Kano, Jigawa, and Sokoto.
Common Names of Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek
Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek is commonly known as "Adua" in Hausa language, "Atili" in Fulfulde language, "Kwakwa" in Kanuri and Yobe, "Kulikuli" in Nupeland, and "Gwate" in Tiv language. The common English names are "Florida velvet bean" and "ant sand bean".
Uses of Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek
The seeds of Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek are used for food in West African countries. The seeds are eaten boiled in soups or as a snack. In Nigeria, where the plant is widely cultivated, it is used in making a popular snack called "kulikuli". The leaves and pods of the plant are also consumed as vegetables.
In traditional medicine, the plant is used in the treatment of different ailments. The roots, seeds, and leaves are used in preparing herbal medicines for the treatment of cough, fever, and diarrhea. The plant is also believed to have aphrodisiac properties.
General Appearance of Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek
Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek is a climbing annual plant that can grow up to 3 meters in height. The stems are slender, hairy, and angular. The leaves are trifoliate and alternate. The leaflets are papery, oval, and pointed. The flowers are borne on racemes and are purple in color. The fruits are flattened, hairy pods that are up to 15 cm long. The seeds are ovoid, black, and flattened.
Light Requirements
Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek grows best in full sunlight or partial shade. However, it cannot tolerate low light conditions. Therefore, it should be kept in a spot that receives direct or indirect sunlight for most of the day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can grow in a wide range of temperatures, but it prefers warm temperatures and cannot survive frost. It grows well in temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 20°C and 25°C. It is not recommended to keep this plant in places with extreme temperatures, as it may affect its growth and appearance.
Soil Requirements
Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek requires a well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. It can grow in different types of soil, but prefers loamy soil. The soil should have a pH ranging from 6.5 to 7.5. It is recommended to add organic matter to the soil before planting to improve its fertility and water retention capacity. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, as waterlogging may cause root rot.
Cultivation Methods for Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek
Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek is a species of drought-resistant legumes that thrives well in various climatic conditions. It is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimum care and attention. Here are some of the cultivation methods to consider when growing Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek:
- The plant is versatile and does well in various soils, ranging from loamy to well-drained sandy soils.
- The species requires a warm and temperate climate, making them ideal for growing in both tropical and sub-tropical regions.
- Plant Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek in a sunny location, where it can get at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Sow the seeds directly in the ground, at a depth of 5-7cm, and space them 30-45cm apart,
Watering Needs for Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek
Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek requires moderate watering to thrive. Here are some tips on watering:
- Water the plants once a week, especially during dry seasons or prolonged drought.
- Avoid over-watering the plants, as this can lead to root rot and affect growth.
- Ensure that the soil is moist, but not waterlogged for maximum growth.
Fertilization for Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek
Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek requires minimal fertilization. Here are some tips on fertilization:
- Add compost manure before planting to enrich the soil with organic matter and improve soil texture.
- Top-dress the plants with an all-purpose fertilizer after 6-8 weeks of planting to boost growth.
- Avoid excessive use of chemical fertilizers, as this can lead to leaching and affect the plant's overall health.
Pruning for Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek
Pruning is not necessary for Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek, but it can help to improve yields and plant growth. Here are some tips on pruning:
- Pinch off the tips of the shoots when the plant is young to promote branching and bushier growth.
- Remove any dead or diseased leaves or branches immediately when noticed, to prevent the spread of diseases and insect infestations.
- Harvest the pods regularly to encourage continuous blooming and ensure the plant remains productive.
Propagation of Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek
Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek is a perennial plant native to Africa. It is also known as the velvet bean and is commonly used as a cover crop and green manure. Propagation of Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek can be done through the following methods:
Seed propagation
Propagation through seeds is the most common method of propagating Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek. The seeds of Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek are large and can be sown directly into the soil 2-3 cm deep. The ideal soil temperature for seed germination is 25-30°C. The seeds typically take 7-10 days to germinate, and the plant can start flowering in 50-60 days.
Cutting propagation
Propagation through cuttings is also possible with Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek. Softwood cuttings of about 10 cm long can be taken from the current season's growth. The bottom end of the cutting should be treated with rooting hormone powder and planted in a well-draining rooting medium. The cutting should be kept in a warm, humid environment with bright, indirect light until new growth appears. The cutting can be planted in the desired location after 2-3 months.
Division propagation
Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek can also be propagated through division. This method involves separating the existing plant into multiple smaller plants with roots. The plant should be lifted carefully from the soil and the roots should be separated into smaller sections. Each section should have at least one growing point and a sufficient root system. The new plants can be replanted in well-draining soil and watered regularly until established.
Disease Management for Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek
The plant Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek is relatively pest-resistant, but some diseases may still affect it. Fungal infections are the most common diseases that affect the plant.
One of the most common fungal diseases is powdery mildew, which can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, remove any infected plant material and destroy it. Then, spray the plant with a fungicide approved for use on Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek.
Another fungal disease is downy mildew, which can cause yellow spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, remove any infected plant material and destroy it. Then, spray the plant with a fungicide approved for use on Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek.
Rust is another fungal disease that can affect the plant. It can cause orange or brown spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, remove any infected plant material and destroy it. Then, spray the plant with a fungicide approved for use on Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek.
Pest Management for Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek
Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek does not usually attract many pests. However, some common pests that may affect the plant include aphids, spider mites, and thrips.
Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that can cause distortion and curling of the leaves of the plant. To manage these pests, wash the plant regularly with a strong spray of water. Alternatively, treat the plant with an insecticide approved for use on Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek.
Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause yellowing and stunted growth of the plant. To manage these pests, wash the plant regularly with a strong spray of water. Alternatively, treat the plant with an insecticide approved for use on Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek.
Thrips are small, slender insects that can cause discoloration and distortion of the leaves of the plant. To manage these pests, remove any infected plant material and destroy it. Then, treat the plant with an insecticide approved for use on Dolichos glabrescens R.Wilczek.
