Overview
Phaseolus polystachios (L.) B.S.P. var. aquilonius Fern., commonly known as northern wild kidney bean or wild bean, is a species of legume that is native to North America. It belongs to the family Fabaceae and the genus Phaseolus. This plant is a climbing vine that is characterized by its kidney-shaped beans, which are consumed by both humans and animals.
Appearance
The northern wild kidney bean is a herbaceous perennial plant that can reach up to 3 meters in length. Its stems are green and covered in hairs, while its leave are trifoliate and alternate. The flowers of this plant are small and white, and form in clusters. The bean pods are up to 10 cm long and contain 4 to 6 seeds. The seeds are kidney-shaped and can be various colors, including black, brown, and white.
Origin
Phaseolus polystachios (L.) B.S.P. var. aquilonius Fern. is native to North America and is found throughout the United States and Canada. It is often found in open woods, thickets, and along roadsides.
Common Uses
The northern wild kidney bean has traditionally been used in North America as a source of food for both humans and animals. The beans are high in protein and have a nutty flavor. They can be boiled, roasted, or ground into flour. The plant itself also has medicinal uses, and has been used in the treatment of diarrhea and for its diuretic properties.
Light Requirements
Phaseolus polystachios (L.) B.S.P. var. aquilonius Fern. thrives in full sun to partial shade. This means that the plant requires at least six hours of bright, direct sunlight every day.
Temperature Requirements
The optimum temperature range for growing Phaseolus polystachios (L.) B.S.P. var. aquilonius Fern. is between 68 to 86°F (20 to 30°C). The plant can tolerate some temperature fluctuations, but extreme temperatures can negatively impact its growth.
Soil Requirements
Phaseolus polystachios (L.) B.S.P. var. aquilonius Fern. prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.8. The soil should be rich in organic matter and have good water-holding capacity. Sandy loam soil is ideal for this plant.
Cultivation Methods for Phaseolus polystachios (L.) B.S.P. var. aquilonius Fern.
The cultivation of Phaseolus polystachios (L.) B.S.P. var. aquilonius Fern. involves selecting an appropriate site, preparing the soil, and planting the seeds.
Choose a well-drained location that receives full sun. The soil should be soft and fertile with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Till the land to a depth of at least six inches and add organic matter to improve soil fertility and drainage.
Plant the seeds after the last frost date, making sure to space them out at least six inches apart. Cover the seeds with soil and water them well. The plants will usually germinate within 7-14 days.
Watering Needs for Phaseolus polystachios (L.) B.S.P. var. aquilonius Fern.
Phaseolus polystachios (L.) B.S.P. var. aquilonius Fern. requires moderate watering, making sure to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Water the plants deeply once a week if there is no rainfall. Ensure that the soil around the plant is soaked but not flooded. Be cautious not to wet the foliage since this might encourage fungal growth.
Fertilization for Phaseolus polystachios (L.) B.S.P. var. aquilonius Fern.
Phaseolus polystachios (L.) B.S.P. var. aquilonius Fern. requires frequent and balanced fertilizer applications to grow and develop correctly.
Apply a balanced fertilizer high in phosphorus, potassium and nitrogen every two weeks, starting just after the seedlings have germinated and the first leaves appear. Use a slow-release fertilizer to keep the nutrients released timely.
Pruning for Phaseolus polystachios (L.) B.S.P. var. aquilonius Fern.
Pruning is not typically necessary for Phaseolus polystachios (L.) B.S.P. var. aquilonius Fern., but removing damaged or diseased leaves may be required.
Remove the infected or dead leaves and discard them to prevent the disease from spreading. Remove shoots or branches that are rubor/developing crosswise. You may tie stems to support them if necessary.
Propagation of Phaseolus polystachios var. aquilonius Fern.
There are two primary methods for propagating Phaseolus polystachios var. aquilonius Fern., division and seed.
Division
Division is the simplest method for propagating Phaseolus polystachios var. aquilonius Fern.; it involves dividing the plant's crown or rhizome into smaller clumps. Ensure that each clump has at least one bud or shoot and replant them at the same depth as before.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation of Phaseolus polystachios var. aquilonius Fern. is best started indoors, four to six weeks before the last frost. Use a sterile, well-draining seed-starting mix to sow the seed. Cover the seed with 1/4 inch of soil, water it, and keep the soil moist until germination occurs.
Transplant the seedlings outdoors in late spring, when the soil has warmed up. Choose a site with full sun, well-draining soil, and sufficient moisture. Space the seedlings 4-6 inches apart, with rows 24 inches apart.
Disease Management
Phaseolus polystachios (L.) B.S.P. var. aquilonius Fern. is susceptible to various diseases that can affect its growth and productivity. The following list includes some common diseases that may affect the plant:
- Anthracnose: This disease is caused by Colletotrichum lindemuthianum and is characterized by the presence of small, sunken lesions on the stem, leaves, and pods of the plant. To manage anthracnose, it is essential to remove infected plant parts and destroy them. Fungicides can be used as a preventive measure to avoid the spread of the disease.
- Rust: This disease is caused by the fungus Uromyces phaseoli and is recognized by the presence of rusty-colored pustules on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage rust, the plant should be treated with fungicides during the early stages of the disease. Also, it is advisable to remove infected plant parts and destroy them.
- Bean common mosaic virus: This virus is transmitted by aphids and is characterized by the presence of mosaic-like patterns on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, it is essential to remove and destroy infected plants and use insecticides to control aphid populations.
Pest Management
Various insects and mites can infest Phaseolus polystachios (L.) B.S.P. var. aquilonius Fern. The following list includes common pests that may affect the plant:
- Aphids: These insects are sap-suckers that can transmit several plant diseases. To manage aphids in the garden, it is advisable to use insecticides or organic solutions such as neem oil.
- Spider mites: These pests feed on the plant's sap and can cause leaf discoloration, stunting, and defoliation. To manage spider mites, it is recommended to spray the plant with water to dislodge them from the leaves. Insecticides or miticides can also be used to control their populations.
- Bean leaf beetles: These beetles cause defoliation and feeding damage, which can affect the plant's growth and productivity. To manage the beetle populations, it is advisable to remove and destroy affected plants. Insecticides can also be used as a preventive measure to control their populations.
