Overview
Dolichos pratorum Harms, commonly known as Field Bean, is a flowering plant in the legume family Fabaceae. It is native to the African continent, specifically found in countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, and Cameroon.
Appearance
Dolichos pratorum Harms is a climbing vine that can reach a height of 2 meters. It has leaves that are compound, with three leaflets. The flowers are purplish-pink in color and occur in clusters. The fruit is a pod, which is ovoid or oblong in shape and contains several seeds.
Common Names
Dolichos pratorum Harms is commonly known as Field Bean. It is also sometimes referred to as Tick Bean or Wild Bean.
Uses
Dolichos pratorum Harms has several uses. In some African countries, it is used as a food crop, with the seeds being used in soups and stews. It is also used as a forage crop for livestock. Moreover, the plant is believed to have medicinal properties with the roots being used to treat various ailments such as dysentery, bronchitis, and abdominal pains. Additionally, the plant can be used as an ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers.
Light Requirements
Dolichos pratorum Harms thrives in partial to full sunlight exposure. It needs at least four hours of direct sunlight each day. The plant can tolerate some shade, but inadequate light may result in reduced flowering and stunting of growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to Africa and prefers a warm, tropical climate. It can tolerate temperatures between 60°F and 75°F. Temperatures below 50°F or above 90°F may cause the plant to suffer stress and damage. To ensure optimal growth, it is best to grow Dolichos pratorum Harms in an environment with a steady temperature around 70°F.
Soil Requirements
Dolichos pratorum Harms can grow in a wide range of soil types. However, it prefers loose, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be slightly acidic, around 5.5 to 6.5, for optimal growth. It can tolerate a pH range of 4.5 to 7.5, but outside of this range, the plant may experience stunted growth. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, as the plant is susceptible to root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Dolichos pratorum Harms, commonly known as field bean or horse bean, prefers warm climates and well-drained soils for cultivation. Sow seeds directly in the ground during the spring, preparing the soil by digging to a depth of 15 cm and removing any impediments such as rocks. It is important to space each seed around 15 cm apart and cover with soil maintaining a depth of approximately 3 cm. The plant requires plenty of sunshine, and the soil must be kept moist during the germination stage.
Watering Needs
As for the watering needs of Dolichos pratorum Harms, it must be watered regularly to keep the soil moist, particularly during dry spells. However, be careful not to over-water, as it could lead to root rot and damage the plant. A good rule of thumb is to water once or twice a week, giving enough water to moisten the soil deep into the root zone.
Fertilization
The Dolichos pratorum Harms plant requires good nutrition, and applying compost or well-rotted manure before planting will provide the required nutrients. Once the plant is established, spread a general-purpose fertilizer that is high in potassium and low in nitrogen. Fertilizing during the blooming season is also recommended to promote the yield of flowers and fruits.
Pruning
Dolichos pratorum Harms plant needs pruning to prevent it from getting leggy and sprawling on the ground. Pinching back the growing tips of the plant when it reaches a height of 8-10 cm encourages bushier growth. Cut off any dead, diseased or damaged parts of the plant to discourage the spread of disease. Additionally, be sure to remove any weeds around the plant as they compete for nutrients and water.
Propagation of Dolichos pratorum Harms
Dolichos pratorum Harms, commonly known as the "Field Bean," is a hardy plant that can be propagated through different methods. Propagation is important for gardeners, farmers, or horticulturists who want to increase their plant stocks or improve crop yields.
Direct Sowing of Seeds
Dolichos pratorum Harms can be propagated via direct sowing of seeds in the field or garden bed. This method is simple and cost-effective, especially for those who have access to the plant's seeds. The ideal time to sow the seeds is at the beginning of the rainy season, which can be in the months of May or June. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 2-3 cm, with a spacing of 30-45 cm between rows in the field. The seeds should be kept moist and protected from pests until they germinate.
Transplanting
The Dolichos pratorum Harms can also be propagated by transplanting. This method is used to propagate older plants or to increase the plant stock. The best time to transplant is when the seedlings have grown to a height of 10-15 cm. The seedlings should be carefully uprooted and transplanted in the prepared field or garden bed, with a spacing of 30-45 cm between rows. Transplanting should be done in the rainy season so that the soil is moist and can provide the young plants with the necessary nutrients.
Cuttings
Dolichos pratorum Harms can be propagated by stem cuttings. This method is best for people who have limited access to seeds or want to propagate specific varieties of the plant. The cuttings should be taken from healthy plants that are at least 6 months or older. The cuttings should be 12-15 cm long and should be taken from the middle part of the stem. The cuttings should be rooted in a mixture of soil and sand and kept moist until roots develop. Once the cuttings have developed roots, they can be transplanted in the field or garden bed.
Division
Dolichos pratorum Harms can also be propagated through division. This method is best for mature plants that have developed a clump of roots. The clump should be carefully divided into smaller sections, each with a few roots and shoots. The sections should be transplanted in the field or garden bed, with a spacing of 30-45 cm between rows.
Overall, the propagation of Dolichos pratorum Harms is easy, and farmers or gardeners can choose the most suitable method based on their preferences, availability of resources, and the plant's growth stage.
Disease Management of Dolichos pratorum Harms
Dolichos pratorum Harms, also known as Field Bean, is susceptible to a number of diseases that can affect their growth and yield. Some of the common diseases that can affect the plant are:
- Anthracnose: Symptoms of anthracnose include small, circular spots on the leaves that turn brown or black. The disease can also cause lesions on the petioles and stems. To manage anthracnose, the affected parts of the plant should be removed and destroyed. Fungicides may also be used.
- Rust: Rust appears as yellow or orange pustules on the surface of the leaves. The affected leaves should be removed and destroyed. Fungicides containing copper can also be used as a preventive measure.
- Root rot: Root rot can be caused by a number of soil-borne pathogens. Symptoms include wilting and yellowing of the leaves. To prevent root rot, the plant should be grown in well-drained soil, and proper watering and fertilization practices should be followed.
Pest Management of Dolichos pratorum Harms
Like all plants, Dolichos pratorum Harms is also susceptible to pest infestations. Some of the common pests that can affect the plant are:
- Aphids: Aphids can cause distorted growth, yellowing, and stunted growth in Dolichos pratorum Harms. They can be controlled using insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils.
- Bean beetle: These beetles feed on the leaves, flowers and pods of Dolichos pratorum Harms. They can be controlled by removing and destroying infested plants. Insecticides such as carbaryl can also be used.
- Mites: Mites can cause leaves to appear stippled or silvery and can reduce the plant's ability to produce food. Mites can be controlled by spraying the plants with water or by using insecticidal soaps.
Using integrated pest management practices can also help manage pest infestations in Dolichos pratorum Harms. This includes practices such as crop rotation, proper sanitation, and the use of resistant varieties.
