Origin
Glycine buettneri Harms is a species of flowering plant belonging to the family Fabaceae, which is native to South America, particularly Argentina and Bolivia.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Buettner's Soybean, Wild Soybean, or Girasolillo. The name Buettner's Soybean is named after its discoverer, Carl August Julius Buettner.
Appearance
Glycine buettneri Harms is a perennial herb with a deep and extensive root system, capable of growing up to 1.5 meters tall. The plant has a smooth stem and leaves, which are trifoliate and alternate in their arrangement, a distinguishing characteristic of plants belonging to the Fabaceae family. The leaves of the plant can range in size from 1.5 to 7 cm, depending on the age of the plant.
The flowers of Glycine buettneri Harms are irregular and papilionaceous, meaning they have a single large banner petal, two wing petals, and two keel petals, which enclose the reproductive structures of the flower. The flowers can be purple or pink in color and are approximately 1.5 to 2 cm in length. The plant produces pod-like fruits that are cylindrically shaped and can range in size from 3 to 8 cm in length.
Uses
The plant is primarily used for soil conservation due to its deep root system. The roots of the plant are capable of penetrating deep into the soil, helping to prevent soil erosion and promoting soil health. In addition, the plant can also be used for forage, providing a source of nutrition for livestock. The plant has also been studied for its potential use in the production of phytoestrogens, which are compounds that are believed to have health benefits for women.
Light Requirements
Glycine buettneri Harms requires full sunlight to grow and flourish. It cannot survive in shady or partially shaded areas. Therefore, it is best to plant the species in an open and well-lit area free from any obstacle that may block sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Glycine buettneri Harms can grow well in tropical and subtropical climates. It can tolerate high temperatures of up to 40°C but thrives best in a temperature range between 20°C to 30°C. The plant cannot tolerate frost and requires a frost-free climate to grow.
Soil Requirements
The plant favors well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in different soil types such as sandy loam, loamy sand, and clay loam. However, it cannot tolerate waterlogged soil, so it is best to plant the species in soil that is well-drained. Additionally, the species can adapt to different soil pH levels ranging from 5.5 to 6.5.
Cultivation of Glycine buettneri Harms
Glycine buettneri Harms needs plenty of sunlight to grow, so make sure to plant it in an area that receives full sun exposure. It is recommended to plant it in well-draining soil, as the plant does not like excessive water. The soil should be moderately fertile and slightly acidic, with a pH level of 6.0-6.5.
Watering Needs of Glycine buettneri Harms
It is important to water Glycine buettneri Harms regularly, especially during the dry season. The plant prefers moderate watering, so make sure to not overwater it. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be detrimental to the plant's growth. It is recommended to water the plant once every two days, depending on the weather conditions.
Fertilization of Glycine buettneri Harms
Glycine buettneri Harms requires regular fertilization to thrive. The plant is a legume, which means it can fix nitrogen from the air and convert it into a form that is usable by the plant. However, it is recommended to fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer to ensure it receives all the necessary nutrients. Fertilize the plant during the growing season, which is from spring to summer.
Pruning of Glycine buettneri Harms
Glycine buettneri Harms requires minimal pruning. However, it is recommended to prune the plant to promote branching and to prevent it from becoming too leggy. It is best to prune the plant during the dormant season, which is from late fall to early spring. Prune any dead or diseased branches, and trim back any branches that are growing too long.
Propagation of Glycine buettneri Harms
Glycine buettneri Harms, also known as the creeping soybean, is a hardy plant that can be propagated through various methods.
Seed Propagation
One of the easiest methods to propagate G. buettneri is through seeds. The seeds should be collected in the fall after the pods begin to dry and turn brown. To increase germination rates, it is best to scarify the seeds by nicking or rubbing them with sandpaper before planting in a well-draining potting mix. The seeds should be lightly covered with soil and kept moist until they germinate.
Cutting Propagation
G. buettneri can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Choose a healthy stem and cut a 4-6 inch piece just below a node. Remove any leaves from the bottom half of the stem and dip the end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and keep it moist until roots begin to form.
Division Propagation
Another method of propagation for G. buettneri is through division. This is best done in the spring before new growth has started. Carefully dig up the plant and gently separate the roots into smaller sections, making sure each section has some stems and leaves. Replant the sections in well-draining soil and keep them moist until new growth appears.
Disease Management
A number of diseases may affect the plant Glycine buettneri Harms. Some of the common ones are:
- Anthracnose: This is caused by fungal infection and appears as brown spots on leaves, which later turn dry and fall off. It can be controlled using fungicides such as copper-based products.
- Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal disease that causes white powdery patches on the leaves. It can be managed by spraying sulfur or potassium bicarbonate-based fungicides.
- Rust: This appears as brown or yellow spots on the leaves and is caused by fungal infection. It can be controlled by spraying the plant with fungicides containing copper or neem oil.
To prevent diseases, it is important to keep the plant healthy by providing proper nutrition, water, and sunlight. Also, avoid overcrowding the plant and maintaining good hygiene in the garden.
Pest Management
Glycine buettneri Harms is susceptible to a few common pests, and ways to manage them are as follows:
- Aphids: These are small pests that suck plant juices and cause yellowing of leaves. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider Mites: These are tiny pests that thrive in hot and dry conditions and cause leaves to turn yellow or speckled. They can be managed by regularly spraying the plant with water to maintain humidity or using insecticidal soap.
- Thrips: These are tiny flies that feed on plant tissue and cause leaves to distort and turn yellow. They can be controlled by releasing beneficial insects such as ladybugs or applying insecticidal soap.
Pest infestations can be prevented by maintaining good plant hygiene and removing any dead leaves or plant debris. Also, avoid overwatering and keep the garden clean and free of weeds.
