Manihot utilissima Pohl
Manihot utilissima Pohl is a perennial shrub that belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family. It is commonly known as cassava, manioc, yucca, mandioca, and tapioca plant. The plant is native to South America and is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world.
Appearance
The cassava plant grows up to 4m high and has a woody stem with several branches. The leaves are palmate and measure about 20-30cm in length and width. The flowers of the plant are small, greenish-white flowers and bloom in panicles. The fruit of the plant is a capsule that is ovoid, 8-10mm in length and split open when ripe.
Uses
Cassava is a staple food crop in many countries and is used in various dishes, including tapioca pudding, fried cassava, boiled cassava, and cassava bread. It is also used to produce starch, flour, and alcohol. The plant has medicinal properties and is used to treat various ailments such as fever, diarrhea, and hypertension. In addition, cassava is used in the textile and paper industries.
Overall, the cassava plant is a versatile crop that is widely used for its food, economic, and medicinal properties. Its ability to thrive in marginal soils and its resistance to drought make it an important crop in areas with limited resources.
Growth Conditions for Manihot utilissima Pohl
Manihot utilissima Pohl, popularly known as cassava, is a tropical plant that is widely cultivated for its starchy, edible tubers. Here are the typical growth conditions required for this plant:
Light
Cassava plants require ample sunlight to grow and thrive. In fact, they need at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to facilitate maximum growth. Therefore, it's best to plant them in areas exposed to full sun, away from any surrounding shadows or shade-producing structures. If grown in shady areas, the plants will have stunted growth, and the tubers will be small.
Temperature
Cassava plants are quite adaptable and can withstand hot and humid tropical climates. The ideal temperature range for cassava is between 25 - 35°C, and it can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°C and as high as 40°C. It should be noted that this plant cannot tolerate frost or freezing temperatures, and sudden drops can cause fatal damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Cassava plants grow best in well-drained soils that have good water holding capacity. The ideal pH range for the growth of cassava is between 5.5 - 6.5. This species can also grow in poor soils, but yields will be lower. The soil should be prepared by plowing and opening up the soil to a depth of about 15 - 20 cm. After that, the soil should be allowed to settle for a few days before planting. Cassava plants should be spaced at least 1.2 meters apart to reduce competition and allow for unrestricted root growth.
Cultivation methods
Manihot utilissima Pohl, commonly known as cassava, is a tropical plant that requires warm temperatures for optimal growth. The plant prefers well-drained soils, with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5, and cannot tolerate waterlogged conditions. It is propagated by stem cuttings, which should be approximately 25cm in length.
The planting material should come from healthy cassava plants and be selected from the middle or upper part of the stem. The cuttings should be planted in shallow furrows, approximately 10cm deep and 1.5m apart. After planting, the soil should be tamped down and watered sparingly until the plants are established.
Watering needs
Cassava plants require adequate moisture for optimal growth. However, they are susceptible to waterlogging, which can cause root rot and other diseases. Therefore, watering should be done judiciously. In general, the plants should be watered deeply once every week or whenever the topsoil is dry to the touch. Newly planted cassavas need to be watered more often until they become established.
Fertilization
Cassava plants are heavy feeders and require regular fertilization for optimal growth. A balanced fertilizer with a formulation of 12-12-17 or 15-15-15 is recommended. The fertilizer should be applied at a rate of 350 to 500kg per hectare, 6 to 8 weeks after planting. Additional fertilizers may be applied once every 3 months, depending on the soil fertility, and the stage of growth of the plants.
Pruning
Cassava plants do not require extensive pruning. However, removing the top third of the plant after it has reached maturity can stimulate the growth of lateral shoots, resulting in a more bushy, productive plant. Pruning can also help to facilitate harvesting and reduce lodging or the falling of stems during heavy winds or rain. Branches that are dead or diseased should be removed promptly to prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation of Manihot utilissima Pohl Plant
Manihot utilissima Pohl, also known as cassava, is propagated mainly by stem cuttings. Propagation by stem cuttings is preferred because cassava plants do not produce viable seeds. Also, stem cuttings have a higher success rate than other methods.
Preparing the Stem Cuttings
The stems of cassava plants that are used for propagation should be healthy and disease-free. The stem is cut into sections that are about four to six inches long and are planted directly into the soil.
Planting the Stem Cuttings
Cassava plant stem cuttings are planted in well-drained soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The cuttings should be planted vertically, with one end buried in the soil and the other end exposed to the air. The cuttings should be planted in a shady area to prevent wilting.
Aftercare of the Stem Cuttings
It takes about two to four weeks for the cassava plant stem cuttings to develop roots. During this time, the soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Once the roots have developed, the plant can be transplanted to its permanent location.
Overall, stem cutting propagation is a reliable method to propagate Manihot utilissima Pohl. Stem cuttings should be taken from healthy plants, planted vertically in well-drained soil, and aftercare should involve keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. With proper care, cassava plant stem cuttings can produce a bountiful harvest for many years.
Disease and Pest Management for Manihot utilissima Pohl
Manihot utilissima Pohl, more commonly known as cassava, is a staple food crop in many tropical regions of the world. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to a range of diseases and pests that can affect its growth and yield. Here are some of the most common issues and ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
Cassava Bacterial Blight: This is a bacterial disease that can cause stunted growth, leaf wilting, and blackened stems. It is spread through infected planting material and water, and can be managed by planting resistant varieties, practicing proper crop rotation, and avoiding overhead irrigation.
Cassava Mosaic Disease: This is a viral disease that causes yellowing and distortion of leaves, and can result in reduced yield and stunted growth. It is spread by whiteflies and can be managed by planting resistant varieties, controlling whitefly populations, and removing and destroying infected plants.
Cassava Brown Streak Disease: This viral disease can cause yellowing and streaking of leaves, and can result in reduced yield and poor quality roots. It is spread by whiteflies and can be managed by planting resistant varieties, controlling whitefly populations, and removing and destroying infected plants.
Common Pests
Cassava Green Mite: This pest can cause yellowing and curling of leaves, and can be managed by using natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings, or by applying neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Cassava Mealybug: This pest can cause stunted growth and the development of black sooty mold, and can be managed by releasing natural enemies such as parasitic wasps, or by applying systemic insecticides.
Cassava Hornworm: This pest can cause defoliation and reduce yield, and can be managed by manually removing the worms or by using Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray.
Overall, the key to disease and pest management in cassava is prevention through good agricultural practices such as proper sanitation and planting healthy, resistant varieties. In addition, prompt and accurate diagnosis and treatment of any issues that do arise is crucial to minimizing crop losses and ensuring a successful harvest.
