Overview
Dolichos pratensis (E.Mey.) Taub., commonly known as dolichos or field bean, is a fast-growing perennial plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. This plant is native to Africa, particularly in Ethiopia, and it is also distributed in other tropical and subtropical regions around the world. In some countries, dolichos is cultivated as a food crop, forage, and vegetable, while in other places, it is grown as an ornamental plant and medicinal herb.
General Appearance
The dolichos plant has a woody stem that can reach up to 7 meters in length, with climbing or trailing tendrils, which may extend up to 2 meters long. The leaves of the dolichos plant are trifoliate, with oval-shaped leaflets measuring 2-8 cm long and 2-5 cm wide. The flowers are papilionaceous, with shades of pink, purple, and white, and are borne in axillary racemes.
Common Names
This plant has various common names, depending on the country or region where it is found. In Ethiopia, it is known as Ayate, while in the United States, it is called cowpea. Other common names include Chinese long bean, asparagus bean, yardlong bean, and snake bean.
Uses
The dolichos plant has various uses and benefits. As a food crop, the young pods and seeds are consumed as a vegetable or cooked in stews and soups. The leaves and stems are also used as animal feed and fodder. In addition, dolichos is used as a medicinal plant, with its roots and leaves being used to treat various ailments, such as fever, diarrhea, and malaria. The plant's fibers are also used for basketry, weaving, and making ropes and cords.
Furthermore, dolichos has ornamental value, and its attractive flowers make it a suitable addition to gardens and landscapes. This plant is also used for soil improvement, as it has the ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, thus enhancing its fertility.
Light Requirements
Dolichos pratensis requires full sun exposure to grow properly. It thrives in areas with direct sunlight and minimal shade. Insufficient light can lead to slow growth and weak stems.
Temperature Requirements
This plant thrives in warm and temperate environments. It requires an average temperature range of 18-28°C for optimal growth. Too much heat or frosty weather can damage the plant's growth and decrease its yield.
Soil Requirements
Dolichos pratensis prefers fertile soil with good drainage capabilities. It grows best in soil with a pH value ranging from 6.5-7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter that helps retain moisture and improve plant nutrient absorption. Additionally, the plant cannot tolerate waterlogged soils, and it is therefore important that the soil has suitable drainage conditions.
Cultivation methods for Dolichos pratensis
Dolichos pratensis is a hardy and low-maintenance plant that is easy to cultivate in different types of soils. The plant grows well in sandy or loamy soil with a pH of 5.5 - 7.5. Cultivate the soil well by plowing, tilling or digging to remove weeds and rocks and enhance soil aeration. Sow the seeds directly in the soil, as the plant is relatively resistant to transplanting.
Watering needs for Dolichos pratensis
Dolichos pratensis requires moderate watering, especially during the flowering and fruiting stage. Water the plant deeply and regularly, ensuring that the soil around the roots is always moist. However, the plant is susceptible to waterlogging, so ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization for Dolichos pratensis
Dolichos pratensis grows best in soil rich in organic matter. Apply organic manure such as compost or well-rotted animal manure during planting to boost nutrient levels in the soil. You can supplement the soil with phosphate-rich fertilizer such as rock phosphate to enhance plant growth. Avoid over-fertilization, which can cause excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers and fruits.
Pruning of Dolichos pratensis
Dolichos pratensis is a climbing plant that requires support to grow. Prune the plant early during the vegetative stage to create a strong framework for the plant to climb. Train the vines to climb in the desired direction by tying them to the support structure. Remove any diseased, dead or damaged parts periodically to minimize the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Dolichos pratensis (E.Mey.) Taub.
Propagation of Dolichos pratensis can be done through both sexual and asexual methods. The specific process of propagation depends on the intended use for the plant and the resources available.
Sexual Propagation
Sexual propagation involves the use of seeds to grow new plants. Dolichos pratensis produces pods that contain several seeds. To propagate through seed, collect mature pods from healthy plants and remove the seeds from the pods. The seeds should be cleaned and placed in a warm, dry location to dry out. Once the seeds have dried, they can be sown in well-draining soil at a depth of approximately 1 cm. Keep the soil moist and the new plant should start to sprout within a few weeks.
Asexual Propagation
Asexual propagation can be done through cuttings or division. Cuttings are taken from a mature plant and placed in a rooting hormone. A hole is made in well-draining soil and the cutting is inserted, then watered. With proper care, the cutting should develop roots and grow into a new plant. Division involves separating the roots and stems of a mature plant into smaller sections, which can then be re-planted in separate locations. Both of these methods result in clones of the original plant, allowing for more efficient propagation.
Disease and Pest Management for Dolichos pratensis (E.Mey.) Taub.
Dolichos pratensis (E.Mey.) Taub., commonly known as Horsegram, is a hardy plant that grows well in poor soil conditions. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to disease and pest infestation. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
1. Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause leaf spots, stem cankers, and pod rot. To manage this disease, use clean cultivation practices, remove and destroy infected plant parts, and apply fungicides. 2. Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that can cause white powdery spots on leaves and stems. To manage this disease, improve air circulation around the plant, avoid overhead watering, remove infected plant parts, and apply fungicides. 3. Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause circular brown spots on leaves, which may drop prematurely. To manage this disease, use clean cultivation practices, remove and destroy infected plant parts, and apply fungicides. 4. Root rot: This fungal disease can cause the roots to turn brown and mushy, which can result in stunted growth and plant death. To manage this disease, improve soil drainage, avoid overwatering, and apply fungicides.
Common Pests
1. Aphids: These tiny insects suck sap from plant leaves and can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, introduce predatory insects like ladybugs, and remove and destroy heavily infested plant parts. 2. Whiteflies: These pests are tiny and fly around the plant, sucking sap from leaves and causing yellowing and wilting. To manage whiteflies, use yellow sticky traps, introduce predatory insects like ladybugs, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil. 3. Spider mites: These pests are common in hot and dry weather, causing yellowing and bronzing of leaves. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, improve air humidity, and introduce predatory insects like lacewings. 4. Cutworms: These pests are moth larvae that cut through the stem of young plant seedlings, causing plant death. To manage cutworms, use physical barriers like collars around plant stems, introduce predatory insects like ground beetles, and apply insecticides.
In conclusion, Dolichos pratensis (E.Mey.) Taub. can be affected by a range of diseases and pests, which can significantly reduce yields and plant quality. However, implementing integrated pest and disease management practices can help minimize the impact of these problems, ensuring a healthy and productive plant.
