Dolichos longistipellatus Harms
Dolichos longistipellatus Harms is a flowering plant species of the family Fabaceae, subfamily Faboideae. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, particularly in the highlands of eastern Africa.
Common names
The plant is commonly known as the long-stalked dolichos or the long-pod dolichos.
Appearance
Dolichos longistipellatus is a woody and twining climber that grows up to 6 meters in length. Its leaves are compound, with 3 leaflets that are ovate-lanceolate to elliptic-lanceolate in shape. The plant produces attractive and showy flowers that are pinkish-purple in color and approximately 1.5 cm in length. The fruit of the plant is a hard and elongated pod that measures up to 35 cm in length and 1 cm in width.
Uses
Dolichos longistipellatus has several uses in traditional medicine. The plant's roots, bark, and leaves are used to treat various ailments, such as fever, diarrhea, and stomachache. The fruit of the plant is edible and is typically consumed by boiling or frying. Additionally, the plant is cultivated as an ornamental vine due to its showy flowers and striking fruit.
Light Requirements
The plant Dolichos longistipellatus Harms requires full sun exposure or partial shade. It can tolerate direct sunlight if provided with sufficient water. Indoors, it can be grown in a place with bright light but not in direct sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for the growth and development of Dolichos longistipellatus Harms is between 18°C to 26°C. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of 10°C and a maximum temperature of 35°C. Temperatures below 10°C can cause the plant to die, and temperatures above 35°C can affect the rate of growth.
Soil Requirements
The plant Dolichos longistipellatus Harms prefers well-draining, loamy soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. It requires soil that is rich in organic matter, and it should be moist but not waterlogged. The plant also does well in sandy soils.
Cultivation Methods
Dolichos longistipellatus Harms, also known as the Snake Bean plant, is a heat-loving crop that thrives in warm and humid conditions. It is a climbing vine that requires support for growth. Therefore, it is recommended that you use a trellis or stakes to provide the necessary support while it grows.
It is best to plant the Dolichos longistipellatus Harms in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH range of 6.0-7.5 is ideal for optimal growth. These plants require full sun to produce fruit, so it is important to plant them in an area that receives direct sunlight throughout the day.
Watering Needs
Dolichos longistipellatus Harms needs regular watering. The soil should be kept evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Irrigation should be done when the soil is dry to a depth of about an inch.
It is important to avoid overhead watering as this can increase the likelihood of plant diseases. Instead, drip irrigation or a soaker hose can be used to water the plants at the base.
Fertilization
Dolichos longistipellatus Harms requires regular fertilization throughout its growing season. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, every three weeks starting from when the plant reaches about 6 inches tall. You can also fertilize with compost or aged manure before planting.
It is essential to avoid over-fertilization, as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of fruit production.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for the proper growth and maintenance of Dolichos longistipellatus Harms. The plant requires regular pruning to remove any dead, diseased or damaged stems and to promote new growth.
It is best to prune the plant in the morning when the plant is well-hydrated. Use sterilized pruning shears to avoid the spread of diseases. Cut just above a node, leaving a small stub, and avoid cutting too close to the main stem.
Lastly, make sure to dispose of any pruned material away from the plant to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Dolichos longistipellatus Harms
Dolichos longistipellatus Harms is an ornamental plant that can be propagated through several methods.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Dolichos longistipellatus Harms is through seeds. The seeds should be sown in well-drained soil in a warm, humid place. The soil should be kept moist, and the seeds should germinate within a week or two.
After the seedlings have grown two true leaves, they can be transplanted to their permanent location. The best time to transplant seedlings is during the growing season when the weather is mild and there is enough rainfall to keep the soil moist.
Cuttings Propagation
An alternative propagation method for Dolichos longistipellatus Harms is through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from the plant during its growing season and placed in well-draining soil. Cuttings should be kept in a warm, humid place and regularly watered.
The cuttings should root within two to four weeks and can be transplanted to their permanent location once they have rooted. Cuttings should be transplanted during the growing season when the weather is mild and there is enough rainfall to keep the soil moist.
Division Propagation
Division is another propagation method for Dolichos longistipellatus Harms, which can be done during the growing season. The plant can be carefully dug up and divided into sections. Each section should have some roots and a few stems.
The divided sections should be transplanted to their permanent location, with each section planted at the same soil depth as it was before. The plants should be watered well and kept in a place with enough shade until they are well-established.
These are the propagation methods for Dolichos longistipellatus Harms. Choose the method that suits you best and enjoy growing this beautiful plant!
Disease and Pest Management for Dolichos longistipellatus Harms
Dolichos longistipellatus Harms, also known as the Long-stalked Bean, is a legume that is prone to certain pests and diseases. Proper management is important in order to maintain healthy growth and optimal yields.
Common Diseases
One common disease that affects Dolichos longistipellatus is powdery mildew, which can cause a white or grayish film on the leaves and stems. This can be managed by providing good air circulation and spacing the plants properly. Fungal diseases such as anthracnose and root rot can also affect this plant, and infected plants should be removed immediately to prevent the spread of disease.
Common Pests
Dolichos longistipellatus can also be affected by a variety of pests including aphids, mites, and thrips. These pests can be managed using insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils. Caterpillars and beetles can also cause damage to this plant, and handpicking them can be an effective control method. Slugs and snails can also be a problem, and using physical barriers such as copper tape or diatomaceous earth can help to keep them away.
Preventative Measures
Preventing disease and pest problems in Dolichos longistipellatus can be achieved by maintaining good cultural practices, such as proper irrigation, fertilization, and pruning. Regular scouting for pests and diseases is also important, as early detection and management can prevent larger problems from developing. Crop rotation and the use of disease-resistant cultivars can also be effective preventive measures.
Overall, with proper management, Dolichos longistipellatus Harms can thrive and produce healthy yields.
