Overview
Dolichos subcapitatus R.Wilczek var. subcapitatus is a type of legume plant that is known for its nutritional and medicinal benefits. This plant is commonly found in India and other parts of Southeast Asia, where it has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and cuisine.
Common Names
This plant is commonly referred to as "horse gram" or "kulith" in India, where it is a popular ingredient in many regional dishes. It is also known as "kollu" in Tamil Nadu, "ulavalu" in Andhra Pradesh, and "gahat" in Uttar Pradesh.
Appearance
The Dolichos subcapitatus R.Wilczek var. subcapitatus plant is an annual vine that grows up to 60 cm in height. It has small, green leaves and produces flowers that are either white or pale blue in color. The plant also produces small, bean-like pods that contain several seeds each.
Uses
The seeds of the Dolichos subcapitatus R.Wilczek var. subcapitatus plant are a rich source of protein, dietary fiber, and other essential nutrients. They are commonly used in Indian cuisine to make dishes like dal, soups, and curries. In traditional medicine, the seeds are believed to have diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-microbial properties, and are used to treat a range of ailments, including colds, fever, and kidney stones. The plant is also used as animal feed and as a cover crop to prevent soil erosion.
Light Requirements
Dolichos subcapitatus R.Wilczek var. subcapitatus requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. It needs at least six to eight hours of sunlight every day to thrive. Lack of enough sunlight might lead to stunted growth, weak stems, and fewer flowers or fruits produced. The plant can tolerate partial shade, but it is not recommended to let it grow in deep shade.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for the growth of Dolichos subcapitatus R.Wilczek var. subcapitatus is between 20°C to 30°C. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of 10°C, but it might experience slow growth and take a longer time to mature. The plant does not grow well in extremely cold climates, and it might require protection from frost damage.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 is optimal for its growth. Heavy and waterlogged soil might lead to root rot and kill the plant. It is recommended to mix compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to boost its nutrient content. Additionally, the plant requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Cultivation Methods
The Dolichos subcapitatus R.Wilczek var. subcapitatus plant prefers a warm and humid climate, with temperatures ranging from 20-30°C. It grows well in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter and have a pH of 5.5-6.5. The plant should be grown in a location that receives full sunlight, although it may also tolerate partial shade.
The seeds of Dolichos subcapitatus R.Wilczek var. subcapitatus can be sown directly into the soil or started indoors. If starting indoors, seeds should be sown in pots or trays and kept in a warm, well-lit location until they germinate. Once the seedlings have reached a height of 10cm, they can be transplanted into their final location.
Watering Needs
The Dolichos subcapitatus R.Wilczek var. subcapitatus plant requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, as overwatering can lead to root rot. If the plant is grown in a container, ensure that it has sufficient drainage holes at the bottom, and excess water should be drained away.
Fertilization
Dolichos subcapitatus R.Wilczek var. subcapitatus plant should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with an equal ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is suitable for this plant. Organic fertilizers like compost can also be used, as they boost soil fertility and improve soil structure.
Pruning
Regular pruning will encourage healthy growth and flowering. Dead or damaged plant parts should be removed, including withered flowers and leaves. Pruning should be done using sharp and sterilized pruning tools to prevent the spread of diseases. It's advisable to prune during the dormant season or immediately following flowering.
Propagation Methods for Dolichos subcapitatus R.Wilczek var. subcapitatus
Dolichos subcapitatus R.Wilczek var. subcapitatus, also known as the rice bean, is commonly propagated through seeds. The following are the methods used for propagating rice beans.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common way to propagate rice bean. It is a cheap and easy way to produce a large number of plants. Before planting, soak the seeds in water for 24 hours to remove any hard coating around the seed. Once the seeds have been soaked, they can be directly sowed into the ground or greenhouse, in well-draining soil with compost. Water the soil regularly and make sure it stays moist until the plants have emerged. Germination usually takes 8-10 days, and the seeds can be sowed from March to July.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting Propagation, also known as a clonal method, is another way to reproduce rice bean. In this method, cuttings are taken from mature plants and rooted in a rooting hormone or a water solution. Once the roots are established, the cuttings can be planted in well-draining soil until they establish themselves in the new location. This method is less common compared to seed propagation, but it is useful when genetic traits of the parent plant are essential.
Tissue Culture Propagation
Tissue culture propagation is another means of plant propagation which is useful in producing a large number of clones of virus-free plants. The process involves growing plants from cells or tissues in an environment containing specific nutrients. Tissue culture can be used to maintain specific genotypes and eliminate undesirable traits. It is an expensive way of propagation compared to seed propagation, making it less common for rice bean production.
In conclusion, rice bean is commonly propagated via seed propagation. Cutting propagation and tissue culture propagation are useful, but less common ways of propagation, and are used when necessary to maintain specific genotypes or traits in the plants.
Disease Management
Dolichos subcapitatus R.Wilczek var. subcapitatus is generally susceptible to fungal and bacterial diseases. The most common plant diseases that can affect the plant are anthracnose, powdery mildew, and Rhizoctonia root rot.
Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes brown or black spots on the leaves, stems, or fruits, leading to defoliation and fruit drop. To manage anthracnose, remove and destroy infected plant parts, apply copper-based fungicides, and reduce humidity and avoid overhead watering.
Powdery Mildew: This fungal infection manifests itself as a white powdery substance on the surface of leaves and stems. It stunts the growth of the plant and can reduce yields. To manage powdery mildew, avoid overcrowding the plants, apply fungicides, and ensure adequate air circulation around the plants.
Rhizoctonia Root Rot: This soil-borne fungal disease can cause the plant to wilt and eventually die. To manage Rhizoctonia root rot, use pathogen-free soil or steam sterilize the soil, practice crop rotation, and avoid over-fertilization.
Pest Management
The plant is mostly free of pests, but occasional attacks can occur. The pests that attack Dolichos subcapitatus R.Wilczek var. subcapitatus are aphids, spider mites, and leafhoppers.
Aphids: These small insects suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage aphids, remove infected plant parts, use insecticidal soaps, and introduce natural predators like ladybugs.
Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause the leaves to wilt and turn yellow. To manage spider mites, reduce the amount of fertilizer used, increase humidity around the plant, and apply insecticidal soaps or neem oil.
Leafhoppers: These insects cause damage to the plant by sucking sap, leading to yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. To manage leafhoppers, remove infected plant parts, use sticky traps, and apply insecticides like clethodim or malathion.
