Overview
Dolichos trilobus L. var. richardsiae Mackinder, also known as Richards' longbean, is a plant species that belongs to the family Fabaceae. The plant is native to the African continent, particularly in East Africa, and has been introduced to other parts of the world as an ornamental plant.
Common Names
The plant is known by different names in different parts of the world. Some common names for this plant include Richards' longbean, butterfly pea, black-eyed pea, and warren bush.
Appearance
The plant has an upright growth habit and typically grows up to 1-2 meters in height. The leaves are trifoliate and the flowers are blue or purple in color. The fruit is a long pod that contains several seeds, similar to a green bean.
Uses
The plant is mostly grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers and foliage. However, it is also used for medicinal purposes in some cultures. The seeds are sometimes eaten as a protein source, and the leaves and twigs are used for treating skin diseases and wounds.
Light requirements
Dolichos trilobus L. var. richardsiae Mackinder prefers full sunlight to partial shade for optimal growth. It thrives in open areas with good exposure to sunlight, but can also grow in partially shaded areas. It is not recommended to plant this species in areas with dense shade as it may impede its growth.
Temperature requirements
Dolichos trilobus L. var. richardsiae Mackinder prefers warm temperatures for optimal growth. It can grow in a range of temperatures between 18-32°C, although it may not survive in temperatures below 10°C or above 40°C. The best growth rates can be achieved in a temperature range of 20-25°C.
Soil requirements
This species prefers well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and have good water-retaining capacity. Sandy loam and loamy soils are ideal for optimal growth. It is recommended to avoid heavy clay soils and waterlogged soils. Fertilizer application can also be beneficial for improved growth rates.
Cultivation Methods
Dolichos trilobus L. var. richardsiae Mackinder plant is indigenous to Central and South America. The best way to cultivate this plant is by sowing the seeds directly into the soil. The plant thrives in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Plant the seeds in early spring in a sunny area that offers shelter from strong winds.
Watering Needs
The Dolichos trilobus L. var. richardsiae Mackinder plant requires regular watering, especially in dry periods. Water the plant once every week and ensure that the soil is well-drained. Avoid overwatering the plant as it may cause root rot.
Fertilization
For optimal growth, the Dolichos trilobus L. var. richardsiae Mackinder plant requires regular feeding. Apply a general-purpose fertilizer to the soil twice a month during the growing season. Alternatively, you can add compost or well-aged manure to the soil to enrich it with nutrients.
Pruning
To keep the Dolichos trilobus L. var. richardsiae Mackinder plant in good shape, prune it regularly. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before the growing season begins. Remove any dead or damaged branches and cut back any stems that have grown too long. Pruning will encourage the plant to produce more flowers during the growing season.
Propagation of Dolichos trilobus L. var. richardsiae Mackinder
Dolichos trilobus L. var. richardsiae Mackinder, commonly known as Richards' bean or three-lobed lespedeza, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. The plant is native to Africa and is widely used in traditional medicine for its various medicinal properties. Propagation of this plant is essential to obtain multiple copies of the plant. Here are the different propagation methods used for Dolichos trilobus L. var. richardsiae Mackinder:
Seed Propagation
Propagation through seeds is the most common method of propagation. The seeds of Dolichos trilobus L. var. richardsiae Mackinder should be collected from mature pods and should be sown in a well-drained medium. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 2-4 cm and kept moist until they germinate. The ideal temperature for seed germination is between 18-24°C. The seedlings should be transplanted when they have developed 2-4 true leaves.
Cutting Propagation
Propagation through stem cuttings is another method used for Dolichos trilobus L. var. richardsiae Mackinder. The cuttings should be taken from mature plants during the active growth phase. Cuttings should be around 15-20 cm long and should be taken from the tip or middle portion of the stem. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone before planting in a well-draining medium. The cuttings should be kept in a warm, humid place and should be watered regularly until they form roots.
Division Propagation
Propagation through division is a simple method suited for mature plants. Mature plants should be dug up, and the roots should be divided carefully using a sterilized knife. Each root division should have at least one shoot and root system. The divided sections should be planted in pots containing a well-draining medium and kept in a warm, humid place. The plants should be watered regularly, and new shoots will emerge within a few weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Dolichos trilobus L. var. richardsiae Mackinder
Dolichos trilobus L. var. richardsiae Mackinder, commonly known as Richards' bean, belongs to the Fabaceae family. This plant is susceptible to various plant diseases and pest attacks, which can affect its growth and yields. Therefore, proper disease and pest management practices are essential to ensure the plant's optimal health and productivity.
Common Diseases
1. Bacterial Blight: It is caused by the Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. phaseoli bacteria. Symptoms include water-soaked lesions on the leaves that turn yellow and eventually brown. The infected leaves fall prematurely. The disease spreads through splashing of water and infected seeds.
Management: Crop rotation with non-host plants, planting disease-resistant cultivars, seed treatment with antibiotics, and spraying copper-based bactericides on plants may help manage bacterial blight.
2. Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease, caused by Erysiphe polygoni, manifests as white, powdery growth on leaves and stems. The infected tissue may also yellow or brown, and premature leaf drop occurs.
Management: Pruning of diseased plant parts, increasing plant spacing for better air circulation, planting resistant cultivars, and regular application of fungicides can help control powdery mildew.
Common Pests
1. Thrips: These tiny, slender insects suck the sap from leaves, causing them to turn pale and discolored. Heavy infestation can cause premature plant death.
Management: Good plant nutrition, regular weeding, and avoiding overhead irrigation can deter thrips. Spraying insecticidal soaps, neem oil, and horticultural oils can also help control thrips.
2. Aphids: These soft-bodied insects feed on plant sap, causing yellowing, curling, and distortion of leaves. Aphids can also transmit plant viruses.
Management: Aphids can be removed or knocked off with a strong jet of water. Introducing natural predators like ladybirds or parasitic wasps, planting companion plants like mint, and applying insecticidal soaps can also keep their populations in check.
By implementing proper disease and pest management techniques, it is possible to protect Dolichos trilobus L. var. richardsiae Mackinder against common diseases and pests, ensuring optimal growth and yields.
