General Appearance of Dolichos reptans Verdc.
Dolichos reptans Verdc. is a vining plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is a perennial plant that can grow up to 2 meters in length. The stem of the plant is slender and slightly hairy with tendrils that aid in climbing. The leaves are trifoliate and have a petiole that is about 6 cm in length. The leaflets are ovate to lanceolate, with the margins that are entire and have a pointed apex.
Origin and Common Names of Dolichos reptans Verdc.
Dolichos reptans Verdc. is native to East Africa, and it can be found growing in countries such as Kenya, Tanzania, and Ethiopia. The plant is also commonly known as creeping bean, and in Swahili, it is referred to as Kivu.
Uses of Dolichos reptans Verdc.
Dolichos reptans Verdc. has several uses in traditional medicine in East Africa. The plant is believed to have antibacterial and antifungal properties and is often used to treat skin diseases, wounds, and infections. The plant is also used to treat coughs, allergies, and respiratory problems. The leaves and stems of the plant are edible when cooked, and they are a good source of protein. The plant is also used as a cover crop to enrich the soil as it fixes nitrogen.
Light Requirements
Dolichos reptans Verdc. is a sun-loving plant that requires at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Insufficient sunlight can lead to weak stems, poor growth, and malformed leaves. Therefore, it is crucial to choose a location that offers adequate sunshine.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers hot and humid environments, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 25°C. Temperatures below 15°C can cause stunted growth, while those exceeding 30°C can cause heat stress. To maintain optimal growth, it is necessary to avoid exposure of plant to frost and extreme heat conditions.
Soil Requirements
Dolichos reptans Verdc. prefers well-drained, moist, and nutrient-rich soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The plant does not tolerate waterlogged soils and can produce yellow leaves. Garden soils with compost are best for growing these shrubs, helping to keep the soil moist as many garden soils tend to have a lower water holding capacity. Adding organic fertilizers is a good idea since they provide essential nutrients needed for growth.
Cultivation Methods for Dolichos reptans Verdc.
Dolichos reptans Verdc. can be grown outdoors or indoors in a pot. When grown in a pot, it is important to make sure it has adequate drainage and is not overwatered. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can be grown in full sun or partial shade. It is important to plant it in an area free from weeds and other competing plants to ensure proper growth.
Watering Needs
Dolichos reptans Verdc. prefers moist soil, but not overly wet soil. Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch, about once or twice a week, depending on the climate. It is important not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot and other issues.
Fertilization
This plant can benefit from regular fertilization during the growing season, typically between late spring and early fall. Use a balanced fertilizer, following package instructions for the recommended amount and frequency of application. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Pruning
Dolichos reptans Verdc. can benefit from regular pruning to encourage healthy growth and maintain its shape. Prune the plant in the early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead or damaged branches, as well as any crossing branches. You can also prune to shape the plant as desired. Remember to sanitize pruning tools before using them to prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation of Dolichos reptans Verdc.
Dolichos reptans Verdc. can be propagated using various methods including seeds, stem cuttings, and division.
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of Dolichos reptans Verdc. can be sown directly into the soil during the spring or fall season. To achieve better germination rates, the seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours prior to planting. The soil should be well-drained, fertile, and slightly acidic. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1 inch and spaced 6 inches apart. The soil should be kept moist until germination occurs. The seedlings can be transplanted to their permanent location after they have grown to a height of 3 inches.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can be taken from a mature Dolichos reptans Verdc. plant during the spring or summer season. The cuttings should be approximately 4-6 inches long and taken from a healthy, disease-free plant. The leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed, and the cutting should be planted in a well-drained potting mixture. The cutting should be kept moist and placed in a warm, bright location. Roots should develop within 4-6 weeks, and the cutting can be transplanted to its permanent location after it has grown to a height of 3-4 inches.
Propagation by Division
Dolichos reptans Verdc. can also be propagated through division. This method is best done during the spring or fall season. The plant should be dug up and the root system carefully divided into several sections. Each section should contain a healthy portion of the root system and several stems. The divisions should be replanted immediately into a well-drained, slightly acidic soil mix. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged until the plants are established.
Disease and Pest Management for Dolichos reptans Verdc.
Dolichos reptans Verdc. is a perennial climbing plant known for its beautiful and abundant flowers. Despite being a disease-resistant plant, it is susceptible to several pests and diseases that can impact the overall growth, yield, and appearance of the plant.
Common Diseases
The most common diseases that affect Dolichos reptans Verdc. are fungal diseases such as wilt, powdery mildew, and leaf spot.
Wilt is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant. It can be identified by yellowing of leaves and wilting of stems caused by the fungus invading the vascular system. To manage this, remove infected plants and avoid planting other members of the same family in the same location.
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant. It appears as white powdery patches on the upper surface of the leaves. To manage this, remove infected plant parts and ensure good air circulation by pruning the plant.
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant. It appears as small, dark spots that may merge to form larger lesions. To manage this, remove infected plant parts and ensure good air circulation by pruning the plant.
Common Pests
The most common pests that affect Dolichos reptans Verdc. are aphids, spider mites, and thrips.
Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant by inserting their mouthparts into the phloem. They can be managed by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider mites are tiny arachnids that suck the sap of the plant. They can be identified by small yellow or white spots on the leaves and fine webbing. To manage this, remove the infected plant parts and spray the plant with water to wash off the mites.
Thrips are tiny insects that feed on the sap of the plant by puncturing the cells. They can be identified by silver-colored streaks on the leaves and flowers. To manage this, remove the infected plant parts and spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Overall, it is important to maintain good plant hygiene and ensure the plant is grown in well-draining soil and provided with adequate sun and water. This will help the plant to resist the impact of pests and diseases, and remain healthy and beautiful.
