Maerua sessiliflora Gilg
Maerua sessiliflora Gilg is a plant native to Africa and is commonly found in dry savannas and woodlands. It belongs to the Capparaceae family and is also known as Wild loquat, African loquat, or African cherry.
General Appearance
The Maerua sessiliflora Gilg shrub or small tree can grow up to 5m in height with a small trunk and numerous branches. The plant has an almost symmetrical rounded crown with a moderately dense foliage that consists of waxy, shiny, and dark green leaves. The flowers are small and white, which is followed by small, red edible fruits.
Uses
The Maerua sessiliflora Gilg plant has several uses. The plant's fruits are edible and are consumed by many African tribes. The fruit is a rich source of vitamin C and is often used in making jams and jellies. Additionally, the roots, bark, and leaves are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as toothaches, diarrhea, and stomach upsets. The plant's wood is also used for fuel, and its bark is used for making cordage and baskets.
Light Requirements
Maerua sessiliflora Gilg requires full sunlight exposure to thrive. The plant requires at least six hours of direct sunlight exposure daily. When planting, ensure that the plant is located in a position where it receives enough light exposure.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is adaptable to different temperature ranges, but it requires an average temperature of 25 to 30 degrees Celsius. In regions with high temperatures, care should be taken to keep the plant hydrated. Temperatures below 20 degrees Celsius can be harmful to the plant.
Soil Requirements
The plant can grow in a variety of soil types but thrives best in well-drained soils. The soil should have a neutral pH, ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. The plant can tolerate soils with low fertility levels, but it requires regular fertilization for optimum growth. A mixture of compost and organic fertilizers can enhance the soil's fertility, leading to improved plant growth.
Cultivation Methods of Maerua Sessiliflora Gilg
Maerua sessiliflora Gilg is a hardy and versatile plant that grows well in a variety of soils, including sandy, loamy and clay soils. It is also tolerant of different temperatures, making it suitable for cultivation in various regions. To grow this plant, it is recommended to propagate it from seeds or stem cuttings.
Seeds should be sown in a well-draining mixture of soil and sand. The seeds should be placed about 5-6mm deep in the soil and watered gently. They require a warm and moist environment to germinate. Once sprouted, the seedlings should be transplanted into a larger pot until they are mature enough to be planted in the ground. Stem cuttings are also an easy way to propagate Maerua sessiliflora Gilg. The cuttings should be placed in moist soil and kept warm until they form roots.
Watering Needs of Maerua Sessiliflora Gilg
Maerua sessiliflora Gilg requires deep and infrequent watering. The soil should be allowed to dry out before the next watering session, as this plant does not like wet conditions. Overwatering can cause root rot, which can damage the plant. In the hot season, it is recommended to water the plant twice per week, depending on the particular growing conditions and soil type. Watering should be reduced in the colder months.
Fertilization of Maerua Sessiliflora Gilg
Maerua sessiliflora Gilg requires regular fertilization to ensure proper growth. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium should be used every two months during the growing season. This will provide essential nutrients to the plant and promote healthy growth and flowering. Organic fertilizers such as compost tea or worm castings can be used instead of chemical fertilizers.
Pruning of Maerua Sessiliflora Gilg
Maerua sessiliflora Gilg requires minimal pruning as it has a natural shape that is appealing. However, pruning can be done to remove dead or diseased branches. It is also recommended that the lower branches of the plant be removed periodically to improve air circulation and reduce the risk of insect infestation. The pruning should be done during the dormant season, after flowering, or at any other suitable time.
Propagation of Maerua sessiliflora Gilg
Maerua sessiliflora Gilg, commonly known as African whitewood, is a hardy plant that can be propagated through various methods, including seeds, cuttings, and layering.
Propagation via Seeds
The easiest and most common way to propagate Maerua sessiliflora is through seeds. The seeds should be collected from healthy plants during the dry season and sown immediately after collection. They can be sown directly in the soil or in seed trays filled with a mixture of sand and compost. The seeds will germinate after 2-4 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted to their permanent location after they reach a height of 10cm.
Propagation via Cuttings
Maerua sessiliflora can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from healthy plants in the early morning and should be at least 20cm long, with 3-4 nodes. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting and dip it in rooting hormone. It can be planted in a mixture of sand and compost and kept moist until roots start to develop. This usually takes about 2-3 weeks, after which the cutting can be transplanted to its permanent location.
Propagation via Layering
Layering is another propagation method for Maerua sessiliflora. This method involves bending a low-lying stem to the ground and covering a portion of it with soil. Roots will develop where the stem is covered with soil, and once the roots have developed, the stem can be cut off from the mother plant and transplanted to its permanent location.
Disease Management
Maerua sessiliflora Gilg is relatively resistant to diseases; however, it can still be affected by some common fungal and bacterial diseases.
Fungal Diseases
One of the most common fungal diseases that can affect Maerua sessiliflora Gilg is powdery mildew. Symptoms include white, powdery fungal growth on the leaves, stems, and flowers. The infected parts may eventually turn yellow and fall off. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering, maintain good air circulation, and prune infected parts of the plant. Neem oil or a fungicide can also be used to control the spread of powdery mildew.
Bacterial Diseases
Another disease that can affect Maerua sessiliflora Gilg is bacterial leaf spot. Symptoms include small, water-soaked spots on the leaves that eventually turn yellow and fall off. To prevent bacterial leaf spot, avoid overhead watering, maintain good air circulation, and prune infected parts of the plant. Copper-based fungicides can also be used to control the spread of bacterial leaf spot.
Pest Management
Maerua sessiliflora Gilg can also be affected by some common pests, including aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs.
Aphids
Aphids are small, green insects that can suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of the foliage. To prevent aphids, spray the plant with a strong stream of water, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny arachnids that can suck the sap from the leaves, causing yellowing and the formation of webbing. To prevent spider mites, spray the plant with a strong stream of water, maintain good air circulation, and introduce natural predators like ladybugs or predatory mites. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be used to control spider mites.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, white insects that can suck the sap from the leaves, causing yellowing, stunted growth, and honeydew buildup. To prevent mealybugs, spray the plant with a strong stream of water, remove infected parts of the plant, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Ladybugs or predatory wasps can also be introduced to control mealybugs.
