Overview of Lathyrus sylvestris L.
Lathyrus sylvestris L. is a species of flowering plant in the Fabaceae family. It is commonly known as the narrow-leaved everlasting-pea, flat pea or wild sweet pea, and is native to Europe, Western and Central Asia. The plant is a herbaceous perennial that grows up to 150cm tall, and has a woody, branching rootstock.
General Appearance
Lathyrus sylvestris L. has narrow, pointed leaves that are 4-7cm long and grow opposite from each other along the stem. The plant produces clusters of fragrant, pink or white pea-shaped flowers, which bloom from May to August. The flowers turn into clusters of narrow seed pods that contain several seeds. The plant has a sprawling habit and is often found growing along road sides, ditches, and in disturbed areas.
Uses
The plant Lathyrus sylvestris L. has various uses. In traditional medicine, the plant has been used as a poultice to treat wounds, as well as for respiratory and digestive problems. The seeds of the plant have been used to make flour, which can be used to make bread and other baked goods. When mixed with wheat flour, it improves the nutritional value of the baked goods. The plant is also popular in ornamental gardening, and is grown for its attractive flowers.
However, caution is recommended when consuming large amounts of the seeds of Lathyrus sylvestris L. as they contain amino acids that can cause poisoning and paralysis if consumed in excessive quantities.
Light Conditions
Lathyrus sylvestris L. prefers to grow in full sunlight or partial shade. It requires at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to maximize its growth potential.
Temperature Requirements
The optimum temperature range for the growth of Lathyrus sylvestris L. is between 18 to 25°C. It prefers moderate temperatures and can tolerate both warm and cold climates. However, during the winter season, it requires appropriate protection from frost.
Soil Requirements
Lathyrus sylvestris L. grows best in well-drained soils that are fertile, deep, and rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be in the range of 6.0 to 7.5. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, sand, and chalk, and can even grow in poor soils. However, it is important to note that waterlogged soil should be avoided, as it can cause root rot and other diseases.
Cultivation Methods
Lathyrus sylvestris L. is easy to grow in various soil types, but it does require well-draining soil. It prefers full sun to partial shade. The plant is best grown from seed, and you can either direct sow them into the soil after the last frost date or transplant them as seedlings. If you choose to transplant the seedlings, plant them in the desired location after the last frost date.
Watering Needs
Lathyrus sylvestris L. needs regular watering during the growing period but avoid over-watering. Provide moderate watering, ensuring that the soil drains well and does not become water-logged. During periods of drought, water the plant deeply to encourage root growth.
Fertilization
To encourage healthy growth, fertilize Lathyrus sylvestris L. once a year with a balanced fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer in the early spring before the onset of the growing season. As a rule of thumb, use a 10-10-10 fertilizer at a rate of one pound per 100 square feet of planting area. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates and methods.
Pruning
Prune Lathyrus sylvestris L. to encourage bushier growth and to control its size. In the fall or spring, cut back the plant to the ground level. You can also cut back individual branches by one-third, which will encourage new growth. Deadhead spent flower stems to promote continual blooming. Be sure to sterilize your pruning tool before and after use to prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation of Lathyrus sylvestris L.
Lathyrus sylvestris L., commonly known as the narrow-leaved everlasting pea, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. The plant produces beautiful rose-purple flowers which make it an excellent choice for gardeners.
Propagation by Seeds
The most common method of propagating Lathyrus sylvestris L. is by seeds. Collect the seeds from the matured pods when they turn brown in color. Clean and store them in a cool, dry place until you're ready to plant them. Sow seeds in the spring in well-drained soil and provide adequate moisture to help the seeds germinate successfully. The seedlings should emerge within two weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
Lathyrus sylvestris L. can also be propagated by rooting cuttings. Take cuttings from the plant in the spring, summer, or autumn. Choose the young shoots that are not woody and preferably with a few leaves. The cuttings should be about 5-8 cm long. Dip the cuttings in a rooting hormone and plant them in well-drained soil. Make sure to water them often to keep the soil moist and protect them from extreme heat or cold.
Propagation by Division
Dividing the root system is another method of propagating Lathyrus sylvestris L. The plant can be divided in the spring or autumn when it is not blooming. Remove the plant from the soil and gently divide the root system into smaller parts. Replant each division in well-drained soil, and water them quickly. Once the plant becomes established, it will start growing normally.
Conclusion
Choose the propagation method that best suits your needs and resources. Propagating Lathyrus sylvestris L. is easy, and you can grow a beautiful garden quickly with these strategies.
Disease and Pest Management for Lathyrus Sylvestris L.
Lathyrus sylvestris L. is prone to various types of diseases and pests which can significantly affect the growth and yield of the plant. Therefore, it is necessary to employ appropriate disease and pest management strategies to protect the crop from damage. Here are some common diseases and pests known to affect Lathyrus sylvestris L. and proactive measures to control them.
Common Diseases
Anthracnose: This disease is caused by the fungus Colletotrichum lindemuthianum which results in the appearance of sunken, circular or irregular spots on the leaves, stems, and pods of the plant. Infected plant parts turn yellow and wither leading to poor plant growth and reduced yield. To manage the disease, it is important to remove and destroy infected plant parts, rotate the crop regularly, and use fungicides.
Bacterial blight: This disease is caused by the bacteria Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae and results in the appearance of water-soaked, dark green spots on the leaves. The disease can spread quickly, causing the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. To control the disease, it is important to use disease-free seeds, practice crop rotation, and use copper-based fungicides.
Fusarium wilt: This disease is caused by the fungus Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. pisi and leads to the appearance of yellowing of leaves and stunted growth of the plant. Infected plants may eventually wither and die. To control the disease, it is important to practice crop rotation, remove and destroy infected plants, and use fungicides.
Common Pests
Aphids: These are tiny insects that suck sap from the plant, leading to stunted growth, yellow leaves, and reduced yield. They also secrete a sugary substance on the leaves, which attracts black sooty mold. To manage aphids, it is important to use insecticidal soaps, neem oil, or pyrethrum-based pesticides. Introducing natural predators such as lady beetles, lace wings or parasitic wasps also helps reduce aphid populations.
Cutworms: These are the larvae of different moth species that cut off seedlings at the base causing them to die. To manage cutworms, it's important to dig around the base of the plant and remove the larvae. Placing collars around the base of the plant can also prevent cutworms from accessing the plant. Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) and spinosad-based insecticides can be used to manage larger populations.
Spider mites: These are pests that feed on the leaves of the plant, causing them to look yellow and discolored. Severe infestations can lead to leaf loss and poor growth. To control spider mites, it's important to remove infested leaves, increase humidity around the plants, and introduce natural predators such as phytoseiid mites. Insecticidal soap, neem oil, and sulfur-based pesticides can also be used for control.
Regular monitoring of Lathyrus sylvestris L. plants and early detection of diseases and pests is essential in managing them to prevent severe damage to the crop. By adopting basic good agricultural practices such as appropriate cultural management practices and timely use of pesticides, farmers can keep Lathyrus sylvestris L. plants healthy, productive, and profitable.
