Overview
Macroptilium lathyroides (L.) Urb., commonly known as Wild Bushbean, is a perennial member of the Fabaceae family. The plant is native to Central America and can now be found in various parts of South America, Africa, Asia, and the Pacific region.
Appearance
The plant can grow up to 1 meter tall and has a sprawling or climbing growth habit. It has a thin stem and compound leaves that are trifoliate, with leaflets that are oval and up to 6 cm long. The flowers are small, purple, and clustered in racemes that are up to 12 cm long. The fruit is a flat pod, up to 8 cm long, and contains several small seeds.
Uses
The plant is primarily used for soil improvement and as a forage crop. Due to its nitrogen-fixing ability, Wild Bushbean is used as a cover crop and green manure. It is also beneficial in preventing soil erosion and improving soil fertility. In some cultures, the plant is used for medicinal purposes as a diuretic and to treat urinary tract infections and kidney disorders.
The plant is sometimes used as a food source for livestock, but the seeds and pods are toxic to humans and may cause symptoms such as dizziness, tremors, and gastrointestinal distress if ingested.
Common Names
Macroptilium lathyroides is known by various common names including Wild Bushbean, Phasey bean, Pinto bean, Rubber vine, and Sonoran wildbean.
Growth Conditions for Macroptilium lathyroides (L.) Urb.
Light: Macroptilium lathyroides (L.) Urb. thrives best in areas where it can get full sun exposure. It requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight to grow optimally. However, it can tolerate partial shade, although too much shade can result in weak, spindly growth, and reduced flowering.
Temperature: Macroptilium lathyroides (L.) Urb. is well adapted to tropical and subtropical climates and can tolerate high temperatures between 20 to 40°C (68-104°F). Light frost or temperatures below 10°C (50°F) can harm the plant. It performs best in warm temperatures, with a minimum of 20°C (68°F) and a maximum of 35°C (95°F).
Soil Requirements: Macroptilium lathyroides (L.) Urb. prefers well-draining soils. It can grow in a wide range of soils, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It can tolerate acidic to neutral soils, with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. However, it does better in soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. It is susceptible to root rot when grown in water-saturated soils.
Water: Macroptilium lathyroides (L.) Urb. requires regular watering for optimum growth. However, it can tolerate brief periods of drought. Overwatering can lead to root rot and reduce the plant's overall health and productivity. Watering should be done carefully and in small amounts, encouraging deep root growth.
Fertilizer: Macroptilium lathyroides (L.) Urb. does not require excessive fertilization, as it has the capacity to fix nitrogen from the air through its root nodules. However, for optimal growth, regular application of a balanced fertilizer can be beneficial. A slow-release 10-10-10 fertilizer applied once in every three to four months can provide essential nutrients for the plant.
Propagation: Macroptilium lathyroides (L.) Urb. can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be planted in well-draining soil, and cuttings should be taken in the spring or early summer from stem tips. Cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and placed in moist soil under bright light.
Cultivation methods for Macroptilium lathyroides
Macroptilium lathyroides should be cultivated in well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.5-7.5. Proper drainage ensures that the plant's roots don't rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and die. The plant prefers full sun, but it can also grow in partially shaded areas. Farming can be done by seed or cutting propagation. It is best to sow the seeds in the rainy season. After sowing, soil must be lightly covered with about 1 cm soil. Seedlings will start appearing after seven days.
Watering needs for Macroptilium lathyroides
Macroptilium lathyroides requires sufficient watering, especially during the first few weeks of growth. Young plants should be watered twice a week, while mature plants need to be watered once a week. Moisture is vital during the flowering and fruiting period. It is best to water the plant in the morning or evening to avoid evaporation and prevent fungal diseases. The plant does not tolerate excessive waterlogging; therefore, it is necessary to ensure good drainage to avoid overwatering.
Fertilization for Macroptilium lathyroides
The plant needs regular fertilizer application to maintain healthy growth and proper nutrient balance. Use of Organic fertilizer is much appreciated. Fertilizers with a high content of Nitrogen (N) and Phosphorus (P) are necessary during the vegetative phase, encourage leaves and stem growth. Conversely, the plant will require higher Potassium (K) and Phosphorus (P) fertilizer during the flowering and fruiting phase, which encourages root and shoot system growth.
Pruning for Macroptilium lathyroides
Pruning in Macroptilium lathyroides is necessary to remove unwanted growth and improve plant health. Pruning should be done after the flowering period, which usually happens after six months of planting. Cut the leaves, stems, and branches that seem weak or diseased. The plant, therefore, thrives with good pruning practices, which reducing competition for nutrients. As an added advantage, pruning improves the plant's aesthetic appeal by improving the plant's shape and size.
Propagation of Macroptilium lathyroides (L.) Urb.
Macroptilium lathyroides (L.) Urb. can be propagated through several methods. These methods include:
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Macroptilium lathyroides (L.) Urb. can be sown directly on the ground or in pots. Before sowing the seeds, prepare the soil by mixing organic matter or compost. After sowing, water the soil enough to keep it moist but not too wet. Seedlings will start to emerge after two weeks. When the seedlings are big enough, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Cuttings Propagation
Macroptilium lathyroides (L.) Urb. can also be propagated through cuttings. This method is usually done during the dry season. Cuttings from healthy and mature plants are taken and planted on prepared soil. Water the cuttings regularly to keep it moist. After a few weeks, the cuttings will start to grow roots and new shoots. These can be transplanted once they are strong enough.
Division
Division is another method of propagating Macroptilium lathyroides (L.) Urb. It involves dividing the plant into two or more parts. This method is ideal for big and mature plants. It is usually done during the early spring or autumn. Dig up the plant and carefully divide the roots and stems into sections. Each section should have enough stems and roots to grow independently. Transplant the sections to their permanent location and water them regularly.
Disease Management
Macroptilium lathyroides is susceptible to various diseases, including root rot, leaf spot, and powdery mildew. These diseases can cause serious damage if not managed properly. Here are some tips to manage diseases in Macroptilium lathyroides:
- Practice crop rotation to reduce the risk of soil-borne diseases.
- Ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
- Apply fungicides according to label instructions to manage leaf spot and powdery mildew.
- Remove and destroy infected plant material to prevent the spread of disease.
Pest Management
Macroptilium lathyroides is also vulnerable to several pests that can damage the plant and reduce yields. Here are some ways to manage pests in Macroptilium lathyroides:
- Inspect plants regularly to detect pests early.
- Use insecticidal sprays or dusts to control pests like aphids, spider mites, and thrips.
- Introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings to control pest populations.
- Remove and destroy heavily infested plants or plant parts.
- Use row covers to protect plants from adult insects and prevent egg-laying.
