Origin
Dolichos lupiniflorus N.E.Br. is native to Africa, specifically Ethiopia and Kenya. It thrives in regions with an annual rainfall of 500-800 mm.
Common names
Dolichos lupiniflorus N.E.Br. goes by several common names, including horsegram, kulthi bean, and Madras gram. In East Africa, it is known as njahi or kikuyu bean, while in India and Sri Lanka, it is called ulavalu or gahath.
Uses
Several cultures have incorporated Dolichos lupiniflorus N.E.Br. into their diets and traditional medicine. In India and Sri Lanka, the seeds are often cooked as a dal or ground into flour to make flatbread. Horsegram is also used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat kidney stones, respiratory issues, and skin conditions. Additionally, the plant is used for animal feed and as a green manure by farmers due to its nitrogen-fixing properties.
General appearance
Dolichos lupiniflorus N.E.Br. is an annual herb with long, slender, trailing stems that can reach up to 4 meters in length. The leaves are trifoliate, with each leaflet being ovate-lanceolate and 1-4 cm in length. The plant produces small, white or purple flowers in clusters that give way to pods containing oblong, brown seeds. The seeds are approximately 4 mm in length and are high in protein, fiber, and minerals.
Light Requirements
Dolichos lupiniflorus N.E.Br. requires full sun exposure for optimal growth and development. This plant species cannot tolerate shade or low light conditions, as it relies heavily on photosynthesis to produce nutrients and energy for growth. It is therefore recommended to grow Dolichos lupiniflorus N.E.Br. in an area where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
Dolichos lupiniflorus N.E.Br. is a warm-season crop that thrives in warm to hot temperatures. The ideal temperature range for growth and development is between 20 to 35°C. However, this plant species can still tolerate temperatures as high as 40°C if adequate moisture is provided. During cooler months, it is best to grow Dolichos lupiniflorus N.E.Br. in a greenhouse or indoors to ensure that the temperature requirement is met.
Soil Requirements
The growth of Dolichos lupiniflorus N.E.Br. is influenced by the soil type, pH, and fertility. This plant species prefers well-draining soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It can grow in various soil types, including sandy or loamy soils. However, a fertile soil that is high in organic matter content is ideal for optimal growth and productivity. Additionally, the soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot and other soil-borne diseases.
Cultivation
Dolichos lupiniflorus N.E.Br. thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH (6 to 7). It performs best in warm climates with full sun exposure. Prepare the soil by adding organic matter, like compost, and till it to a depth of at least 6 inches. Plant the seeds directly into the soil at a depth of 2 inches, with a spacing of 12 inches between the seeds. Cover the seeds with soil, and water gently. The seeds should germinate within 7 to 10 days.
Watering
The proper watering of Dolichos lupiniflorus N.E.Br. is essential for its growth and development. Water the plants regularly, keeping the soil moist but not saturated. During the hotter months, they may require more frequent watering. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot and fungal diseases. Water from the base to keep foliage dry. Also, it is advisable to avoid watering late in the day, as it may lead to fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Proper fertilization of Dolichos lupiniflorus N.E.Br. can help promote healthy growth and increase yields. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, at the time of planting. You can also add a nitrogen-rich fertilizer about a month after planting to boost growth. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Overfertilization can lead to excessive vegetative growth with little to no yield.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to maintain the health and productivity of Dolichos lupiniflorus N.E.Br. Generally, they do not require much pruning, except for removing any dead or damaged branches. If the plants become too bushy, you can pinch back the tips of new growth to encourage branching. It would be best to prune in the early morning or late evening to minimize stress on the plants.
Propagation of Dolichos lupiniflorus N.E.Br.
Dolichos lupiniflorus N.E.Br. or the White Lupin Bean is a legume plant belonging to the family Fabaceae. It is commonly propagated through seeds and cuttings. Both these methods have their benefits and drawbacks, but they are effective nonetheless.
Propagation by seed
Propagation by seed is the most commonly used method for the Dolichos lupiniflorus. It is an easy way to propagate the plant and is also cost-effective. The seeds of Dolichos lupiniflorus are 7-8 mm in diameter and should be sown during the spring season. The soil should be moist and well-drained for optimum growth. Once the seeds have been sown, they should be covered with a thin layer of soil. The seeds should be watered regularly and kept in a warm and sunny area for maximum growth and germination.
Propagation by cuttings
Propagation of Dolichos lupiniflorus by cuttings is an effective method, especially when the plant needs to be grown in a particular type of soil. Cuttings can also be used to propagate plants that are already well-established. The cuttings taken from the plant should be 3-4 inches long and should be planted in moist and well-drained soil. The cuttings should be watered regularly and kept in a warm and sunny area. Within a few weeks, new roots will start to appear, and the plant will begin to grow.
Overall, Dolichos lupiniflorus N.E.Br. can be propagated through both seed and cutting methods, and both are effective. The seed method is cheaper and easier, while the cutting method is more effective when trying to grow plants in a particular type of soil or when propagating well-established plants.
Disease and Pest Management for Dolichos lupiniflorus N.E.Br.
Dolichos lupiniflorus N.E.Br., also known as the hyacinth bean or lablab bean, is a climbing plant that is grown for its edible seeds and pods. However, this plant is susceptible to a range of diseases and pests that can damage its growth and reduce its yields. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Dolichos lupiniflorus and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
1. Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that causes small, sunken lesions on the leaves, stems, and pods of the plant. As the lesions grow, they become brown or black and can cause the leaves to wilt and drop off. To manage anthracnose, remove and destroy infected plant debris. Apply fungicides to affected plants according to label instructions.
2. Bacterial blight: This is a bacterial disease that causes watery spots on the leaves and stems of the plant. These spots can eventually turn brown and cause the leaves to fall off. To manage bacterial blight, remove and destroy infected plant debris. Avoid overhead irrigation and apply copper-based fungicides to affected plants.
3. Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that causes a powdery white coating on the leaves of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, remove and destroy infected plant debris. Apply sulfur-based fungicides or neem oil to affected plants according to label instructions.
Common Pests
1. Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects suck the sap from the plant and can cause it to become stunted or deformed. To manage aphids, spray the plants with a strong jet of water to dislodge them. If necessary, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to affected plants.
2. Spider Mites: These tiny insects can cause the leaves of the plant to become stippled or yellowed. They are usually found on the undersides of leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plants with a strong jet of water to dislodge them. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to affected plants.
3. Leaf Miners: These insects tunnel inside the leaves of the plant, causing white or brown streaks to appear. To manage leaf miners, remove and destroy affected leaves. Apply neem oil or spinosad to affected plants according to label instructions.
By managing diseases and pests on Dolichos lupiniflorus N.E.Br., growers can ensure healthy and productive plants.
