Origin
Dolichos oliveri Schweinf. var. kilimandscharicus Taub. ex Baker f. is a plant species that belongs to the family of Fabaceae. It is native to East Africa, specifically Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda.
Common Names
The plant has several common names, which include Kilimandschari Dolichos, Nyungu ya Ngombe, Nyungu ya Fisi, and Mountain Bean.
Uses
The plant has various uses, especially in traditional medicine. The root and leaves of the plant are boiled and used to treat various ailments, such as fever, diarrhea, edema, and venereal diseases. The stem bark is used to relieve pain and to treat skin diseases. Additionally, the plant is used as a source of forage for cattle.
General Appearance
Dolichos oliveri Schweinf. var. kilimandscharicus Taub. ex Baker f. is a perennial climbing or straggling plant that grows to a height of 3 meters. The plant has a woody base, with stems that are densely hairy and up to 1 centimeter thick. The leaves are large and alternate, with leaflets that are 3 to 11 in number and variable in shape, from broadly ovate to lanceolate. The flowers are purple or pink in color, and the fruits are long and hairy pods that contain several seeds.
Growth Conditions for Dolichos oliveri Schweinf. var. kilimandscharicus Taub. ex Baker f.
Dolichos oliveri Schweinf. var. kilimandscharicus Taub. ex Baker f. is a fast-growing perennial twining herb that thrives in tropical and subtropical areas. To make sure that this plant grows to its full potential, the following growth conditions must be provided:
Light
The plant requires full sunlight to grow optimally. Hence, it is recommended that the plant be grown in an open field or in an area that receives a minimum of six hours of full sunlight each day. The plant may become stunted if grown in an area with insufficient sunlight.
Temperature
The plant grows best in warm temperatures between 18 and 30°C. If temperatures drop below 16°C, the plant may start to lose its foliage. If temperatures rise above 35°C, the plant may become stressed and stop growing, or even die. Therefore, temperature plays an important role in the growth of Dolichos oliveri Schweinf. var. kilimandscharicus Taub. ex Baker f.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. The soil must be rich in organic matter and have a good water holding capacity. Sandy loam and clay loam soils are ideal for growing this plant. It is important to note that the soil should not be boggy or waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot and cause the plant to decline.
Cultivation Methods for Dolichos oliveri Schweinf. var. kilimandscharicus Taub. ex Baker f.
Dolichos oliveri Schweinf. var. kilimandscharicus Taub. ex Baker f. is a climbing plant that is generally cultivated from seeds. To cultivate this plant, grow it in well-draining soil that is fertile, loose, and rich in organic matter. This plant is best grown in full sun to partial shade and requires plenty of moisture during the growing period.
The seeds of Dolichos oliveri Schweinf. var. kilimandscharicus Taub. ex Baker f. should be sown in a germination tray, and then transferred to individual pots or containers when they reach a height of about 10cm. Alternatively, you can also directly sow the seeds in the prepared garden bed. The plant will start climbing in a few weeks and should be trained onto a support structure such as a trellis or a pole.
Watering Needs for Dolichos oliveri Schweinf. var. kilimandscharicus Taub. ex Baker f.
Dolichos oliveri Schweinf. var. kilimandscharicus Taub. ex Baker f. requires regular watering to ensure that the soil remains consistently moist. During the growing season, water the plant at least once a week, or more often if the soil dries out quickly. Reduce the frequency of watering during the cooler months.
However, be careful not to over-water the plant, as this can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. Always ensure that the soil is well-drained and that there is no waterlogging.
Fertilization for Dolichos oliveri Schweinf. var. kilimandscharicus Taub. ex Baker f.
Dolichos oliveri Schweinf. var. kilimandscharicus Taub. ex Baker f. benefits from regular applications of organic fertilizers such as compost, well-rotted manure, or bone meal. Apply a balanced fertilizer once every month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and improve the soil's nutrient content.
Avoid using chemical fertilizers on this plant as they can cause damage to the roots and negatively impact the health of the plant.
Pruning of Dolichos oliveri Schweinf. var. kilimandscharicus Taub. ex Baker f.
Pruning Dolichos oliveri Schweinf. var. kilimandscharicus Taub. ex Baker f. is not necessary, but it can help maintain its shape and promote bushier growth. Prune the plant during the late winter or early spring months just before the start of the growing season.
To prune, cut back any diseased, damaged, or old growth, then shape the plant by selectively trimming the tips of the shoots to control its size and shape.
Propagation of Dolichos oliveri Schweinf. var. kilimandscharicus Taub. ex Baker f.
Dolichos oliveri Schweinf. var. kilimandscharicus Taub. ex Baker f. is easiest to propagate by seeds or cuttings.
Propagation by seeds:
The seeds need a lot of sunlight, warmth, and moisture to germinate. Scarifying the seeds with sandpaper or soaking them overnight before planting can increase the germination rate. Seeds should be planted in fertile, well-draining soil at a depth of about 1 to 2 cm. Water seedlings regularly, and protect them from strong winds and full sun exposure.
Propagation by cuttings:
Propagation by cuttings is generally less common for Dolichos oliveri Schweinf. var. kilimandscharicus Taub. ex Baker f., but it can be successful if done correctly. Select a healthy stem that is not too woody, and cut a length about 10 to 15 cm long. Make sure the cutting has at least one set of leaves and several nodes. Dip the end of the cutting in rooting hormone, then plant it in moist, well-draining soil. Place the potted cutting in a warm, bright area, and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The cutting should root in about 4 to 6 weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Dolichos oliveri Schweinf. var. kilimandscharicus Taub. ex Baker f.
Dolichos oliveri Schweinf. var. kilimandscharicus Taub. ex Baker f. is generally a hardy plant, but like all plants, it can still be susceptible to a range of diseases and pests. Here are some common problems to look out for and how to manage them:
Diseases:
Anthracnose. This fungal disease can affect leaves, stems, and pods, causing yellowing, wilting, and eventual death of the plant. Control measures include crop rotation, removing infected plant debris, and using fungicides.
Rust. This fungal disease appears as rusty-looking patches on the surface of the leaves. Rust is favored by high humidity, so proper spacing of plants to improve air circulation can help. Fungicides can also be used to manage rust.
Mosaic virus. This viral disease affects the leaves, causing distortion and mottling. Affected plants should be removed immediately to prevent the spread of the virus.
Pests:
Aphids. These small insects suck the sap from leaves, causing them to curl and become distorted. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap sprays or introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings.
Cutworms. These caterpillars feed on young seedlings, cutting through the stem at ground level. To deter cutworms, place collars around the base of seedlings, made from cardboard or plastic cups. Alternatively, use insecticidal products to control them.
Trips. These tiny insects feed on the sap from the plant, causing leaves to become distorted and discolored. Control measures include spraying with insecticidal soap or introducing natural predators, like minute pirate bugs.
Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to plant diseases and pests, and providing good growing conditions for Dolichos oliveri Schweinf. var. kilimandscharicus Taub. ex Baker f. can go a long way in preventing problems from occurring. Proper watering, spacing and nutrition will keep the plants healthy and strong, making them less susceptible to disease and pest damage. Regular monitoring of plants is important, so that any problems can be spotted and dealt with quickly before they get out of hand.
