Overview of Dolichos linearis E.Mey.
Dolichos linearis E.Mey. is a flowering plant species that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is commonly known as the long-leaved dolichos, feather-leaf dolichos, or snake bean. The plant is a climbing vine that grows up to 4 meters long and is native to Southern Africa.
Appearance
The leaves of the Dolichos linearis E.Mey. are long, narrow, and feather-like, hence the common name feather-leaf dolichos. The leaflets are lanceolate and grow to a length of up to 10 centimeters. The plant produces white or pinkish flowers that are approximately 1 centimeter in length. The pods of the plant are thin and elongated, growing up to 30 centimeters in length and contain numerous small seeds.
Common uses
The Dolichos linearis E.Mey. plant is commonly grown for its edible pods, which are used in various culinary preparations. In African cuisine, the beans are cooked and used in stews and soups. They can also be boiled, fried, or roasted and eaten as a snack. Additionally, the plant is used as a traditional medicine in various regions of Africa. The leaves and roots of the plant are used to treat various ailments, including skin disorders, dental problems, and digestive issues.
Overall, the Dolichos linearis E.Mey. is a versatile and useful plant that has a unique appearance. It is valued both for its culinary uses and its medicinal properties.
Light Requirements
The Dolichos linearis E.Mey. plant thrives in full sunlight to partial shade. It is best to place the plant in a location that receives a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight per day. If the plant is placed indoors, it should be near a bright, sunny window.
Temperature Requirements
Dolichos linearis E.Mey. plants require warm temperatures to grow. The ideal temperature range for these plants is between 18°C to 25°C. If the temperature drops below 15°C, the plant growth will be stunted and may eventually die. Therefore, it is best to keep the plant in a warm location and avoid placing it in a drafty area or near an air conditioner.
Soil Requirements
The Dolichos linearis E.Mey. plant prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 5.8 to 6.2. The soil should be rich in organic matter and have good water retention capacity. It is best to amend the soil with compost or peat moss to improve soil quality before planting the seed. The plant does not tolerate waterlogged or water-deficient soils.
Cultivation Methods for Dolichos linearis E.Mey.
Dolichos linearis E.Mey. is a climbing plant that requires a support system to grow. The plant is best grown in warm climates and requires full sunlight for healthy growth. It grows well in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Propagation of Dolichos linearis E.Mey. is usually done through seed sowing. The seeds should be sown preferably during the rainy season and placed in deep furrows about 2-3 cm deep in the soil.
Watering Needs
Dolichos linearis E.Mey. requires regular watering, especially when it is young and still establishing roots. It is best to water the plant at the base, ensuring that the soil is moist but not water-logged. The plant prefers humid conditions but can tolerate some drought once established.
Fertilization
It is advisable to fertilize Dolichos linearis E.Mey. with organic fertilizers once a month during the growing season. Nitrogen-based fertilizers are suitable for the plant's growth as they promote the development of leaves and shoots. However, excessive use of fertilizers can lead to the growth of foliage at the expense of flowers.
Pruning
Pruning of Dolichos linearis E.Mey. is essential to control the plant's size and shape. The plant should be pruned after flowering to encourage new growth and promote branching. The dead or damaged parts should be removed regularly. Train the plant on the support system to ensure that the branches are properly spaced and do not intertwine, which can affect air circulation and light penetration.
Propagation of Dolichos linearis E.Mey.
Dolichos linearis E.Mey., commonly called the butterfly pea or Kikuyu toilet creeper, is an attractive, fast-growing climber with masses of delicate, pea-like purple flowers that blooms throughout the year. It is a popular choice for both ornamental and medicinal purposes. Propagation of Dolichos linearis E.Mey. can be achieved through various methods which include:
Seed propagation:
One of the most common methods of propagating Dolichos linearis E.Mey. is from seed. The seeds can be sown either directly into garden beds or in a potting mix in seed trays. For best results, soak the seeds in water for 24 hours before planting. Sow the seeds at a depth of 10-15mm and water thoroughly. It is essential to maintain consistent moisture levels and warm temperatures (around 20°C) until the seedlings emerge, which can take from 7 to 14 days.
Cuttings:
Another way of propagating Dolichos linearis E.Mey. is through stem cuttings. Take 10-15cm long cuttings from the end of the plant's stem, remove the lower leaves, and dip the cuttings in rooting hormone powder. Place the cuttings in a potting mix and keep them moist. The cutting should be covered with a plastic bag to facilitate high humidity levels and prevent moisture loss. Keep the pot in a bright, warm spot until the cuttings root, which takes about 6-8 weeks.
Division:
Dolichos linearis E.Mey. can also be propagated by dividing the plant's root ball. Choose a healthy plant, remove it from the soil, and carefully separate it into sections, each with several stems and roots attached. Replant each section in a new pot or garden bed, water thoroughly, and keep them in a shaded spot until new growth develops.
Layering:
Layering is another propagation method applicable to Dolichos linearis E.Mey. Select a section of the stem from the parent plant, make a small incision or wound on the stem, apply rooting hormone powder and then bury the incised part, holding it in place with a stake and soil. This will create a new root system in that portion of the stem, after roots develop, it can be transplanted to its permanent position wihtout damaging the stem.
To successfully propagate Dolichos linearis E.Mey., it is crucial to keep the soil or propagation mix continually moist, provide access to bright but filtered sunlight and a warm spot. Additionally, the newly planted cuttings or seedlings should not be exposed to direct sunlight until they are established.
Disease Management
Dolichos linearis E.Mey. is susceptible to a few diseases that can cause damage to the plant and reduce yield. The following are some common diseases and ways to manage them:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause dark, sunken spots on leaves, stems, and pods. To manage it, remove and destroy infected plant debris, avoid overhead irrigation, and apply fungicides.
- Yellow mosaic virus: This virus causes yellowing and distorted leaves, stunted growth, and reduced yield. To prevent it, plant only virus-free seeds and control the insect vectors of the virus.
- Rust: This fungal disease can cause orange-yellow pustules on leaves and stems. To manage it, remove and destroy infected plant debris, practice crop rotation, and apply fungicides.
Pest Management
Dolichos linearis E.Mey. is also susceptible to attack by pests that can cause damage to the plant. The following are some common pests and ways to manage them:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth and yellowing leaves. To manage them, use insecticidal soap or oil, introduce natural predators like ladybugs, and remove heavily infested plant parts.
- Cutworms: These caterpillars can cut the stem at the base and cause the plant to wilt and die. To prevent them, use physical barriers like cardboard collars around the stem, till the soil to expose the cutworms to predators, and apply pesticide to the soil.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling on leaves and reduce yield. To manage them, spray the plant with water to reduce humidity, introduce natural predators like predatory mites, and use insecticidal soap or oil.
