Overview of Macrotyloma axillare (E.Mey.) Verdc. var. axillare
Macrotyloma axillare (E.Mey.) Verdc. var. axillare, also known as dolichos lablab or lablab bean, is a species of flowering plant in the family Fabaceae. The plant is native to tropical and subtropical Africa but has been widely cultivated and naturalized in many parts of the world. The plant is an important source of food and fodder for animals in its native range and is also used in traditional medicine.
Characteristics of Macrotyloma axillare (E.Mey.) Verdc. var. axillare
The Macrotyloma axillare (E.Mey.) Verdc. var. axillare is a tall, twining herbaceous plant that can reach up to 3 meters in height. The leaves are trifoliate, and the flowers are white, purple, or blue in color. The pods are up to 7 cm long, curved or straight, and contain several seeds. The root system is composed of several roots that are deep and branch out extensively.
Uses of Macrotyloma axillare (E.Mey.) Verdc. var. axillare
The Macrotyloma axillare (E.Mey.) Verdc. var. axillare is primarily grown for its edible seeds, which are high in protein, carbohydrates, and dietary fiber. The seeds are also used as a source of vegetable oil and as animal feed. In traditional medicine, the plant is used to treat a range of ailments, including digestive problems, fever, and hypertension.
The plant is also used as a green manure and cover crop in many agricultural systems, providing soil nutrients and suppressing weeds. The leaves and pods of the plant are also used as fodder for cattle and other livestock.
Cultivation of Macrotyloma axillare (E.Mey.) Verdc. var. axillare
The Macrotyloma axillare (E.Mey.) Verdc. var. axillare is a hardy plant that grows well in a variety of soils, including loamy, sandy, or clay soils. The plant prefers warm, humid climates and is well suited to tropical and subtropical regions. The plant can be propagated from seed or cuttings and typically bears fruit within 120-180 days of planting.
Cultivation of the Macrotyloma axillare (E.Mey.) Verdc. var. axillare is important for food security and sustainable agriculture, particularly in areas where arable land is limited. The plant contributes to the diversification of cropping systems and provides a range of ecological and economic benefits.
Light Requirements
Macrotyloma axillare requires full sunlight exposure to thrive. The plant typically needs at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Partial shade may lead to stunted growth or even death of the plant. Therefore, it is essential to choose a planting location that receives full sun exposure throughout the day. Inadequate sunlight may affect the overall yield and quality of the plant.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Macrotyloma axillare is between 25°C to 35°C. The plant can tolerate high temperatures, but freezing temperatures can damage or even kill the plant. Therefore, it is crucial to avoid planting the seeds in areas with frost-prone temperatures. The plant can grow in a variety of environments, including arid and semi-arid regions, but it requires high temperatures to yield maximum productivity.
Soil Requirements
Macrotyloma axillare thrives in well-drained soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 8.0. The plant prefers sandy loam soils with good drainage to prevent the pooling of water around the root zone. The soil should be rich in organic matter and should not be waterlogged or compacted. It is advisable to amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting to improve soil nutrient content and drainage. The plant is tolerant of drought conditions but requires regular watering to support growth and yield.
Cultivation methods
Macrotyloma axillare (E.Mey.) Verdc. var. axillare, commonly known as the round leaf velvet bean, is a species of legume found in Africa and Asia. It is an annual plant that requires full sunlight to grow. It prefers well-drained soil with a pH range of 6-7.5. It can grow up to 2 meters high.
The seeds of the plant should be sown in early spring or summer when the temperature is warm enough for germination. The seeds should be sown at a depth of around 2 cm, and the distance between the seeds should be at least 20 cm. The plant should be watered regularly after sowing to keep the soil moist.
Watering needs
The round leaf velvet bean requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. The plant should be watered deeply once a week, but this can vary depending on the climate and soil type.
The plant is drought-resistant and can tolerate dry conditions, but the production may be affected if the plant is deprived of water for a prolonged period. However, care should be taken not to overwater the plant as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
The round leaf velvet bean requires a good source of nutrients to grow properly. Fertilization should be done before planting and after the first few weeks of germination. A balanced fertilizer with higher nitrogen content should be used for the initial fertilization.
The use of organic fertilizers is encouraged as they provide a slow release of nutrients to the plant. Bonemeal and compost can also be added to the soil to enhance the fertility of the soil. However, care should be taken not to over-fertilize the plant as this can lead to excessive growth and reduced yield.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to ensure proper growth and development of the round leaf velvet bean. The plant is a climbing vine and should be supported with trellises or stakes. The plant should also be pruned regularly to remove any damaged or diseased parts of the plant.
Deadheading can also be done to encourage the growth of new flowers. This will also help to prevent seed formation, which can reduce the production of the plant. Pruning should be done during the beginning of the growing season to allow enough time for the plant to recover and produce new growth.
Propagation of Macrotyloma axillare
Macrotyloma axillare, also known as "babul bean," is a leguminous plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is a popular crop in many countries, especially in Africa and Asia, because of its high nutritional value and drought tolerance. Propagation is the most critical stage in crop production, and there are several methods of propagating babul bean.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating babul bean is through seeds. Seeds are readily available, and they are relatively easy to plant and maintain. The best time to plant babul bean seeds is at the beginning of the rainy season.
The seeds should be planted directly into the field or in containers filled with well-drained soil. The seeds must be spaced 10-15 cm apart at a depth of 2-3 cm. The soil should be moist, but not waterlogged. Germination usually takes place within 10-14 days.
Cutting Propagation
Babul bean can also be propagated through cuttings. This method is most effective when the plant is dormant, usually in the winter months. The cuttings are taken from the woody part of the plant and are about 30 cm in length.
The cuttings should be planted in a well-drained potting mix and kept in a greenhouse or under a shade. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. The cuttings should root within 2-3 weeks.
Layering Propagation
Another method of propagating babul bean is through layering. This method involves bending a low-growing branch of the plant and burying it in the soil while still attached to the parent plant. The buried part of the branch will eventually grow roots, and the branch can be cut from the parent plant.
This method is most effective in the late summer or early autumn. The soil should be kept moist, and the layer can be cut from the parent plant after 6-12 months.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting is another method of propagating babul bean. This method involves attaching a scion from the desired plant to a rootstock of a closely related species. Grafting is a useful method of propagating desirable traits of the babul bean plant onto the rootstock of another plant that is resistant to pests and diseases.
Grafting should be done during the warm months when the sap is flowing. Careful wound management is essential to ensure successful grafting.
Overall, babul bean can be propagated using a variety of methods. The most popular and effective method of propagation is through seed. However, cuttings, layering, and grafting can be useful methods for propagation in certain situations.
Disease Management for Macrotyloma Axillare
Macrotyloma axillare can be affected by several diseases, including fungal, viral, and bacterial diseases. The following are some common diseases and management strategies:
Fungal Diseases
Fungal diseases that affect Macrotyloma axillare include anthracnose, powdery mildew, and downy mildew. To manage these diseases, you can use fungicides, such as copper-based fungicides. It is also important to promote good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to minimize the incidence of these diseases.
Viral Diseases
Common viral diseases that affect Macrotyloma axillare include bean common mosaic virus and cowpea aphid-borne mosaic virus. Unfortunately, there is no cure for these diseases once a plant is infected. Therefore, it is essential to prevent these viruses from entering your garden by ensuring that your seedlings are free of these viruses.
Bacterial Diseases
Bacterial diseases that may affect Macrotyloma axillare include bacterial wilt and crown rot. These diseases can be managed by removing the plant and disposing of it properly, as these diseases can spread quickly. If you notice bacterial wilt, it is crucial to control the aphid vector to reduce the spread of the disease.
Pest Management for Macrotyloma Axillare
Macrotyloma axillare can also be affected by several pests, including insects and mites. The following are some common pests and management strategies:
Insects
Insects that can attack Macrotyloma axillare include aphids, bean beetles, and leafhoppers. To manage these pests naturally, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. You can also use physical controls, such as handpicking, to remove and manage these pests.
Mites
Mites can also affect Macrotyloma axillare and can cause leaves to turn yellow and fall off, resulting in stunted growth and reduced yields. To manage these pests, you can use sulfur-based pesticides and neem oil. You can also use predatory insects, such as lacewings and ladybugs, to control mite populations.
By following these management strategies, you can ensure that your Macrotyloma axillare plants remain healthy and productive.
