Introduction
Kummerowia stipulacea, commonly known as Korean clover, belongs to the family of legumes, Fabaceae. It is native to East Asia, including Japan, Korea, and northeastern China. The plant has been introduced to many other regions and is now widespread in the United States, Australia, and Europe.
Appearance
The plant is a low-growing herbaceous annual, reaching up to 60cm tall. It has multiple branching stems with trifoliate leaves that are ovate to elliptical in shape, with entire margins. The leaves are arranged alternately and have stipules, which are small leaf-like structures at the base of the petiole. The flowers are small, arranged in dense spikes up to 10cm long. They are pink to purple in color and bloom from late summer to early autumn. The fruit is a small, reddish-brown pod that contains one or two seeds.
Common Names
Korean clover is also known in other names such as Japanese clover, Korean lespedeza, Korean bush clover, annual lespedeza, Korean bush clover, stipulate clover, clover lespedeza, and crinkleleaf clover
Uses
Kummerowia stipulacea is an important forage crop, particularly in East Asia, where it is used as feed for livestock. The plant is highly nutritious, with a high protein content and good digestibility. Korean clover is also used as a cover crop to protect soil from erosion and improve soil fertility. It can fix atmospheric nitrogen in the soil, which helps to reduce the use of nitrogen fertilizers. Additionally, the plant is also used in traditional medicine, particularly in Korea, where it is believed to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and diuretic properties.
Light Requirements
Kummerowia stipulacea, commonly called false lucerne, requires full sun to grow to its full potential. As a result, they should be planted in areas with bright sunlight exposure. Any presence of shade can limit its growth and productivity.
Temperature Requirements
The false lucerne is compatible with a wide range of temperature, and it can grow in most climatic areas. However, it thrives best in areas with a temperature range of 15-30°C. Temperatures above 30°C can start affecting the growth of the plant, which may reflect in low productivity.
Soil Requirements
The false lucerne can grow on wide-ranging soils, but it thrives best on well-drained soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.0-7.0. The soil should be fertile, with high nitrogen content and low phosphorus content. The plant is highly tolerant of salinity; thus, it can grow on saline soils, making it an ideal crop plant in arid and semi-arid areas.
Cultivation Methods
Kummerowia stipulacea, commonly known as Korean clover, is a seasonal plant that prefers to grow in several climates such as subtropical, tropical, and temperate regions. It is adaptable to different soil types, including heavy soils, and soil pH of about 5.5-7.5. The plant requires moderate sunlight, and it grows well in well-drained soils to prevent root rot. To plant the seed correctly, mix it with the topsoil and spread it over the site, then sprinkle it with water. The seeds usually germinate within a week or two, but this may depend on the soil temperature and humidity.
Watering Needs
Korean clover is a drought-tolerant plant that does well under moderate rainfall. However, during drought stress, it may need regular watering to thrive. It is necessary to monitor the soil moisture levels and irrigate whenever the soil is dry to keep the plant healthy. In general, the plant needs a moderate amount of water, and excessive watering may lead to root rot, which may cause the plant's death.
Fertilization
Kummerowia stipulacea needs adequate nutrition to thrive. Fertilize the plant with organic manure or synthetic fertilizers during planting, growth, and flowering stages. Apply the fertilizer as directed on the package instruction to avoid over-fertilization, which may lead to the plant's death. Regularly check the plant's nutrient status and adjust the fertilizer application to meet the plant's requirements.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to enhance the plant's growth and maintain its shape. Korean clover is a legume plant that grows up to 20-30 inches tall, and it requires regular pruning to encourage new growth and prevent the plant from becoming too bushy. Prune the plant using clean and sterilized pruning scissors, removing any damaged or diseased plant parts. Regular deadheading promotes prolonged blooming and improves the plant's appearance.
Propagation of Kummerowia stipulacea
Kummerowia stipulacea, commonly known as Korean clover or Korean lespedeza, is a legume plant that is widely used for forage, cover crops, nitrogen fixation, and erosion control. Propagation of Kummerowia stipulacea can be accomplished through different methods.
Propagation by seed
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Kummerowia stipulacea. The seeds are small and can be sown directly into the soil or using a seedbed. The soil should be moist and well-draining to ensure good germination rates. The optimal temperature range for seed germination is between 18 to 25 degrees Celsius. Seeds should be sown at a depth of 1 to 2 cm, and the planting distance should be 15 to 20 cm apart.
Propagation by stem cutting
Kummerowia stipulacea can also be propagated by stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from mature plants during the growing season. The cuttings should be 10 to 15 cm long and taken from the top of the plant. The leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed, and the cutting should be inserted into a rooting hormone solution to promote root growth. The cutting should then be planted in a well-draining soil, and the soil should be kept moist.
Propagation by division
Kummerowia stipulacea can be propagated by division, especially for established plants that have become crowded. The plant should be dug up carefully, and the roots should be divided into smaller sections, each with one or two shoots. The divided sections should be planted into a well-draining soil and kept moist for optimal growth.
Disease and Pest Management for Kummerowia stipulacea Plant
Kummerowia stipulacea, also known as Korean clover, is a popular leguminous forage crop known for its high protein content and nitrogen fixation properties. Despite its resilience to drought and poor soil conditions, this plant is still vulnerable to certain diseases and pests. Here are some common diseases and pests and how to manage them:
Diseases
Anthracnose - This fungal disease causes the leaves and stems to have brown lesions and spots. It can also lead to premature leaf drop and stunted growth. To manage, remove infected plant parts, and avoid working on plants when they are wet. Fungicides may also be applied.
Sclerotinia White Mold - This disease results in white, cotton-like growth on the leaves, flowers, and stems. It can also cause wilting and damping-off of seeds. To manage, avoid crowding and excessive moisture. Fungicides can also help, but they are most effective when applied preventatively.
Fusarium Wilt - This disease is caused by a fungus that enters the roots and causes wilting and death of the plant. To manage this disease, use disease-free seeds, rotate crops, and remove infected plant material. Fungicides may also be used, but they are not always effective.
Pests
Cutworms - These pests feed on seedlings and can cause significant damage. To manage, use physical barriers, such as collars around the base of the plant, and introduce natural predators, such as parasitic wasps and birds.
Aphids - These sap-sucking insects can stunt growth and cause yellowing of the leaves. To manage, use insecticidal soap or horticultural oils, introduce natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings, and apply reflective mulch to repel aphids.
Spider Mites - These tiny insects feed on the foliage of the plant and can cause stippling and discoloration. To manage, increase humidity, use insecticidal soap or horticultural oils, and introduce natural predators such as predatory mites.
In conclusion, Kummerowia stipulacea can face various diseases and pests. To ensure a healthy crop, it is essential to implement a comprehensive management program to address potential issues early before they become severe and cause significant losses to the crop.
