Overview
Macrotyloma brevicaule (Baker) Verdc. is a legume plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. This native African plant is widely cultivated for its seeds, which are used for human consumption and animal feed.
Common Names
Macrotyloma brevicaule is commonly known as horse gram, madras gram, and kulthi in India. In other parts of the world, it is known by different names such as dalwa, chanti, gahat, and kollu.
Origin
Horse gram is believed to have originated in Southeast Asia, including India, where it has been cultivated for thousands of years. It is also grown in Africa, Australia, and other parts of Asia. Horse gram is a drought-resistant crop that thrives in arid and semi-arid regions.
Appearance
Macrotyloma brevicaule is an annual herb that grows up to 1m in height. It has a sprawling growth habit and produces small, yellow flowers. The seeds are enclosed in a pod and have a dark brown to black color. The leaves of the plant are trifoliate and have a hairy texture.
Uses
Horse gram is a staple food in many parts of India, where it is often used to make gravies, soups, and curries. It is also used to make a nutritious and filling breakfast dish called usal. Horse gram is a good source of protein, dietary fiber, and minerals such as calcium, iron, and phosphorus.
Aside from its culinary uses, horse gram is also used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of health problems. It is believed to have diuretic, astringent, and digestive properties. Horse gram is also used to lower high blood pressure, manage diabetes, and prevent kidney stones.
Growth Conditions for Macrotyloma brevicaule (Baker) Verdc.
Light: Macrotyloma brevicaule requires full sunlight exposure for healthy growth and development. This plant prefers to grow in bright and sunny locations with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Temperature: The optimal temperature range for the growth of Macrotyloma brevicaule is between 25-35°C. The plant is sensitive to cold temperatures and cannot tolerate frost. Extreme temperatures can affect the growth rate of this plant.
Soil: Macrotyloma brevicaule prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter, with a pH level of 6.0-7.5. Sandy loam and loamy soils are ideal for growing this plant. The soil should also be free from salt accumulation and waterlogging.
Water: Macrotyloma brevicaule requires regular watering, especially during the early stages of growth. However, the plant is drought-resistant and can survive in low-water conditions. Overwatering should be avoided, as it can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilizer: Macrotyloma brevicaule is a leguminous plant and can fix nitrogen from the air. Therefore, it does not require excessive fertilizer application. However, a balanced fertilizer with a higher concentration of phosphorus can be used to promote flowering and fruit production.
Propagation: Macrotyloma brevicaule can be propagated through both seeds and stem cuttings. The ideal time for sowing seeds is during the monsoon season in tropical regions. Stem cuttings can be planted during the spring season.
Cultivation Methods for Macrotyloma brevicaule (Baker) Verdc.
Macrotyloma brevicaule (Baker) Verdc. is a hardy and resilient plant that is relatively easy to grow. It is native to Africa and thrives in warm, sunny conditions with well-draining soil. Here are some cultivation methods to consider:
Planting: Macrotyloma brevicaule (Baker) Verdc. is best grown from seeds. Plant seeds about an inch deep in well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. The ideal planting time is during spring when the soil has warmed.
Sunlight: The plant requires full sunlight to grow. It should be exposed to at least six hours of direct sunlight every day.
Soil: The plant grows well in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. The soil should be fertile and rich in organic matter. If the soil is heavy, it should be amended with sand or perlite to improve drainage.
Watering: Macrotyloma brevicaule (Baker) Verdc. requires regular watering, especially during the dry season. Water the plant once a week, ensuring the soil remains moist but not water-logged. Reduce watering during the rainy season.
Watering Needs of Macrotyloma brevicaule (Baker) Verdc.
Watering: Macrotyloma brevicaule (Baker) Verdc. requires regular watering, especially during the dry season. Water the plant once a week, ensuring the soil remains moist but not water-logged. Reduce watering during the rainy season.
Drip Irrigation: A drip irrigation system can be installed to ensure consistent watering. This is important during the dry season, as the plant requires regular watering to produce a good yield.
Mulching: Mulching can help retain moisture in the soil and reduce the frequency of watering. Apply a layer of organic mulch around the plant, taking care not to cover the stem.
Fertilizing Macrotyloma brevicaule (Baker) Verdc.
Fertilizer: Macrotyloma brevicaule (Baker) Verdc. requires a steady supply of nutrients to produce a good yield. The plant can be fertilized with organic or inorganic fertilizers.
Organic Fertilizers: Cow manure or compost can be applied around the plant to add nutrients to the soil. The fertilizer should be applied during the planting period and again after the first harvest.
Inorganic Fertilizers: A balanced fertilizer with an NPK (Nitrogen-Phosphorous-Potassium) ratio of 14:14:14 can be applied to the plant. The fertilizer should be applied at the rate of 100kg per hectare during planting, and again after the first harvest.
Pruning Macrotyloma brevicaule (Baker) Verdc.
Pruning: Pruning should be carried out to remove diseased or dead branches, improve airflow, and reduce the risk of pest and disease infestation.
Timing: Pruning should be carried out after harvesting, during the plant's dormant period. This reduces the risk of damage to the plant and ensures the plant has sufficient time to recover.
Tools: Prune using sharp and clean pruning shears or hand saws. Disinfect tools before use to prevent the spread of diseases.
Method: Cut the branch close to the node or lateral bud. This promotes new growth and helps maintain the plant's shape.
Propagation of Macrotyloma brevicaule (Baker) Verdc.
Macrotyloma brevicaule is a legume plant commonly propagated through seed germination or vegetative propagation methods to cultivate new plants.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation refers to propagating plants from seeds. For Macrotyloma brevicaule, matured and viable seeds should be collected from healthy plants. The seeds should be cleaned and treated with a fungicide to prevent seed-borne diseases. The seedlings should be sown in the field during the rainy season. Farmers or gardeners should ensure proper weed control, watering, and soil fertility to get healthy plants.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation refers to propagating plants using vegetative parts such as cuttings or stem with nodes. In Macrotyloma brevicaule, vegetative propagation is sometimes used to propagate the plant. Reliable induction of vegetative parts for the growth of new plants is still under study. Farmers and gardeners could try the stem cutting techniques used for other legumes in propagating new plants.
In general, Macrotyloma brevicaule is propagated by seed germination, which provides a faster and secure method of propagation. Farmers and gardeners should adequately maintain crop hygiene, irrigation, and use certified seeds to avoid seed-borne diseases.
Disease Management
Macrotyloma brevicaule (Baker) Verdc. is not very susceptible to many diseases. However, some diseases that can affect the plant include:
- Bacterial blight: This disease can cause the leaves of the plant to turn yellow, and eventually brown. It can also cause stem cankers and pod rot. To manage this disease, remove infected plant material and avoid overhead watering, as the bacteria can spread through water droplets. Use copper-based fungicides to reduce the spread of the disease.
- Fungal leaf spot: This disease can cause circular lesions on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, remove infected plant material and avoid overhead watering. Use a fungicide to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Macrotyloma brevicaule (Baker) Verdc. is susceptible to some pests. Common pests that can affect the plant include:
- Aphids: These are small insects that can cause the leaves of the plant to become distorted. To manage aphids, introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or spray the plant with insecticidal soap.
- Cutworms: These are caterpillars that can cut the stems of young plants at ground level. To manage cutworms, place collars around the base of the plants or use an insecticide.
