Overview
Dolichos linearifolius I.M.Johnst, also known as linear-leaved horsegram, is a leguminous plant belonging to the Fabaceae family. It is a bushy, erect, and hardy annual herb that can grow up to 1 meter (3 feet) tall. This plant is native to the East African region and is commonly found in Ethiopia, Sudan, and Kenya.
Appearance
The plant has a woody stem with numerous branches bearing leaves and flowers. The leaves are simple, alternate, and linear in shape, measuring 3-4 cm long and 0.5-1.5 cm wide. The flowers grow in clusters at the end of the branches and are small, purple, and white in color. The plant produces pods that are 2-3 cm long and 1 cm wide, containing small seeds.
Common Names
Dolichos linearifolius is commonly known as linear-leaved horsegram, slender-leafed horsegram, or narrow-leafed horsegram in English. In local Ethiopian languages, it is known as Busa, Enefito, or Gutu. In Sudan, it is referred to as Adacuba or Adasuba, while in Kenya, it is called Mnungu-mweri or Mpatani.
Uses
Dolichos linearifolius has both medicinal and nutritional values. The seeds are rich in proteins (20-25%), carbohydrates (40-45%), and fibers (15-20%) and are used in making nutritious soups and stews. The plant is also used in traditional medicine for treating various ailments such as diarrhea, respiratory infections, and fever. Additionally, it is used as animal feed due to its high protein content and hardiness. The plant is also used for soil conservation and as a cover crop in sustainable agriculture.
Light Requirements
The Dolichos linearifolius plant requires a good amount of light to grow properly. The plant prefers full sunlight exposure to partial shade. It cannot survive in low light conditions as it needs sunlight for photosynthesis. Therefore, this plant should be grown in a location where it can receive direct sunlight for at least 4-5 hours daily.
Temperature Requirements
The Dolichos linearifolius plant grows well in warm and humid climates. The average temperature range for this plant is 20°C to 30°C. The plant cannot tolerate cold temperatures and frost, so it should not be grown in regions with extreme cold weather. They can be grown indoors if the temperature is maintained.
Soil Requirements
For the Dolichos linearifolius plant, the soil should be organic-rich, well-drained, and slightly acidic (pH 5.5 to 6.5). The plant requires proper nutrients to grow well. They can grow in sandy soils if organic matter is added. The addition of compost or well-rotted manure can enhance soil fertility and aeration. The soil should be moist, but not water-logged, as this can cause root rot.
Cultivation
Dolichos linearifolius I.M.Johnst., also known as slender-leafed dolichos, is a leguminous perennial plant that requires warm temperatures and a frost-free environment for optimal growth. The plant can be cultivated in a variety of soil types, but it thrives in well-draining soils rich in organic matter.
To plant, dig holes in the soil at a depth of one to two inches and place the seeds in the hole. Cover the seeds with soil and water them immediately. Maintain consistent soil moisture until the seeds germinate, which typically takes 10 to 14 days.
Watering Needs
Slender-leafed dolichos requires consistently moist soil but cannot tolerate waterlogged soil. It is important to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot or fungal diseases.
Water the plant deeply, once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months, when the plant enters dormancy. Use a watering can or a hose with a gentle spray attachment to avoid damaging the plant.
Fertilization
Slender-leafed dolichos responds well to regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer, which contains equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply fertilizer at least once a month, beginning in the spring and continuing through the summer months.
Alternatively, you can use organic fertilizer, such as compost or manure, to enrich the soil. Combine the organic matter with the soil before planting or apply it as a top dressing around the base of the plant.
Pruning
To maintain the shape and size of slender-leafed dolichos, prune it regularly. Pruning also promotes bushier growth and reduces the risk of disease and pests.
Prune the plant in late winter or early spring, just before the new growth appears. Use clean and sharp pruning shears, and cut off any dead, broken, or diseased branches. Trim the tips of the remaining branches to control the plant's size, but avoid cutting back more than a third of the total growth in a single pruning session.
Propagation of Dolichos linearifolius
Dolichos linearifolius is a plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is a perennial, climbing plant that is native to South America. The plant is propagated using various methods which include:
Seed propagation
Seeds are the most common way of propagating Dolichos linearifolius. The seeds are harvested from the mature plant pods and dried in the sun for a few days. Once the seeds are completely dry, they can be stored in a cool, dry place. To germinate, the seeds are soaked in water for about 24 hours before sowing them in potting soil. The seeds should be sown at a depth of about 1 to 2 cm and kept moist. Germination can take three to four weeks, and the seedlings should be transplanted when they are about three inches tall.
Cutting propagation
Cutting propagation is another method of propagating Dolichos linearifolius. Cuttings should be taken from mature, healthy plants during the growing season. Cuttings should be about six inches long and should be taken from the plant's softwood stem. The cuttings should be rooted in a mixture of sand and soil and kept moist. After the cuttings root, they can be transplanted to larger pots or into the ground.
Division propagation
Division propagation is suitable for mature plants that have become large enough to divide. The plant should be dug up carefully, and the root system should be divided into several sections, making sure that each section has enough roots and shoots. The sections should then be replanted into pots or directly into the ground.
Grafting propagation
Grafting propagation is used to propagate Dolichos linearifolius onto a rootstock of a closely related plant. This method is useful when a plant is difficult to root from cuttings or when the plant is susceptible to soil-borne diseases. A scion of Dolichos linearifolius is grafted onto the rootstock of a closely related plant, and the graft union is secured with grafting tape. The plant is then grown in a greenhouse until the root system is established, and then planted into the ground.
Disease management for Dolichos linearifolius I.M.Johnst.
Like most plants, Dolichos linearifolius I.M.Johnst. can be affected by a range of diseases. Some common ones are discussed below, along with suggestions for managing them:
Leaf spot
Leaf spot appears as small brown spots on the leaves. It is usually caused by a fungus and can be spread by water. To manage this disease, remove any affected leaves and spray a fungicide on the plant. Be sure to water only at the base of the plant to avoid spreading the fungus.
Mildew
Mildew appears as white patches on the leaves and stems. It is caused by a fungus that thrives in warm, humid conditions. To manage mildew, ensure good ventilation around the plant and avoid crowding that can trap moisture. You can also use a fungicide to control the fungus.
Rust
Rust appears as orange spots on the leaves, stems, and flowers. It is caused by a fungus that thrives in moist environments. To manage rust, remove any affected parts of the plant and dispose of them. You can also use a fungicide to kill the fungus.
Pest management for Dolichos linearifolius I.M.Johnst.
Dolichos linearifolius I.M.Johnst. can also be affected by pests, as summarized below:
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the plant. They can often be controlled by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water or applying an insecticide. You can also attract natural predators, such as ladybugs, that eat aphids.
Cutworms
Cutworms are caterpillars that feed on the plant and can cut the stem at ground level. To prevent cutworms, use physical barriers, such as collars around the stem. You can also use insecticides to control cutworms.
Spider mites
Spider mites are tiny, hard-to-see insects that feed on the plant's sap. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with water or using insecticidal soap. Be sure to avoid over-fertilizing the plant as this can attract spider mites.
