Origin
Phaseolus supinus Wiggins & Rollins, commonly known as the Sierra bean, is a plant species of the legume family that is native to the southwestern United States, particularly in Arizona, New Mexico, and Mexico.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Sierra bean, perrito, guajinito, frijolillo, or tepary bean.
Uses
The Sierra bean has been an important source of food for Native Americans for thousands of years. The beans are incredibly drought-tolerant and can grow in poor, arid soil, making them an ideal crop for desert regions. Sierra beans are high in protein and slowly digestible carbohydrates, which make them a valuable food source. In addition to being consumed fresh or dried, Sierra beans are also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.
General Appearance
Phaseolus supinus is a perennial plant that grows up to 1 meter tall. It has a deep taproot system that allows it to access water and nutrients deep in the soil. The plant produces small white or purple flowers from June to September, which later develop into small pods containing 1-3 seeds. The seeds are small and round with a hard outer layer that can range in color from white to brown or black.
Light Requirements
Phaseolus supinus typically grows well in full sunlight, but can also tolerate partial shade. A minimum of six hours of direct sunlight per day is necessary for optimal growth and productivity.
Temperature Requirements
Phaseolus supinus thrives in warm temperatures that range from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. The plant can tolerate cooler temperatures, but growth is significantly slower and yield is reduced. Extreme temperatures, both high and low, can cause damage to the plant and reduce its productivity.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil for Phaseolus supinus is sandy loam with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The soil must also be well-draining to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Additionally, the soil must be rich in nutrients, with ample amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, as these elements are critical for plant growth and development. It is important to note that the plant is sensitive to salinity, and therefore, should not be cultivated in soil with a high salt content.
Cultivation Methods
The Phaseolus supinus Wiggins & Rollins plant is commonly known as the wild lima bean and requires specific cultivation methods to thrive. Start by choosing a location that receives full sun exposure for at least six hours a day, with well-draining soil. Plant the seeds about 1 inch deep and 3 inches apart. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and germination should occur within 7-10 days. Thin the seedlings to 6 inches apart once they reach a height of 3 inches. The plant requires a warm climate with temperatures averaging between 70? and 85?, and they need protection from frost and cold temperatures.
Watering Needs
The Phaseolus supinus Wiggins & Rollins plant needs consistent watering throughout the growing season. Ensure that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause root rot and other diseases. A good rule of thumb is to water the plants deeply once a week during the growing season and adjust accordingly based on rainfall and other environmental factors.
Fertilization
The wild lima bean requires well-draining soil, rich in organic matter. Before planting, amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to provide the necessary nutrients. Fertilize the plant after the first fruits appear, using a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer according to the instructions on the package.
Pruning
The Phaseolus supinus Wiggins & Rollins plant does not require significant pruning. However, regular pinching of the tips of the stems can encourage bushier growth. Additionally, it is essential to remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems to prevent the spread of diseases and pests. Prune the plant after the growing season, removing any dead stems and trimming back the plant to maintain its shape.
Propagation of Phaseolus supinus Wiggins & Rollins
Phaseolus supinus Wiggins & Rollins, also known as the Sierra bean, is a plant species native to North America. The Sierra bean can be propagated through several methods, including seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common and easiest method of propagating Sierra beans. The seeds of the plant can be collected from mature bean pods. Harvesting should be done when the pods have dried out on the plant and the beans are fully mature. Once harvested, the pods should be dried further until they split easily and release the seeds. These seeds can then be sown at a depth of 2-3 cm into a well-draining soil mix. The seeds should be kept moist but not saturated until they germinate, which usually takes about 7-14 days.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation is a more challenging propagation method that involves taking cuttings from the parent plant. The cuttings should be taken at a time when the plant is actively growing and not flowering. The cutting should be about 10-15 cm long and should include at least two nodes. Remove all the leaves except for the top two, and dip the cutting into a rooting hormone. Then, plant the cutting into a well-draining soil mix, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Over time, the cutting will develop roots, and new growth will emerge from the top.
Both seed and vegetative propagation methods can be used to propagate Phaseolus supinus Wiggins & Rollins. However, seed propagation is the most simple and widely used method for propagating the Sierra bean.
Disease and Pest Management for Phaseolus Supinus Wiggins & Rollins
Phaseolus supinus Wiggins & Rollins, commonly known as the Sierra bean, is susceptible to several diseases and pests that can hinder its growth and productivity. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that might affect the plant, and ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Bacterial wilt: This disease is caused by the bacterium Ralstonia solanacearum and can lead to wilting, yellowing, and ultimately death of the plant. To prevent the spread of bacterial wilt, avoid planting beans in infected soil and remove and destroy infected plants. Crop rotation and regular soil testing can also help prevent the disease.
2. Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes dark spots on the leaves, stems, and pods, which can lead to the death of the plant. To manage anthracnose, remove infected plant parts and avoid overhead watering, which can spread the fungus. Planting disease-resistant varieties and maintaining proper plant spacing can also help prevent anthracnose.
3. Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that causes orange-brown spots on the leaves and can reduce yield. To control rust, remove infected plant parts and ensure adequate ventilation and spacing between plants. Fungicides may also be used for severe cases.
Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the plant's sap and can cause stunted growth and deformation of leaves and pods. To control aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, or introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings.
2. Bean beetles: Bean beetles are small, yellow-brown beetles that feed on the leaves and can cause defoliation and reduced yield. To manage bean beetles, remove infected plant parts and use insecticides or introduce natural predators such as parasitic wasps.
3. Cutworms: Cutworms are caterpillars that feed on the stems at the base of the plant, causing it to wilt and die. To prevent cutworms, use collars around the base of the plants, made from cardboard or newspaper, to prevent the caterpillars from accessing the stem. Natural predators such as birds can also help control cutworms.
Implementing an integrated pest management (IPM) program that combines cultural, biological, and chemical control methods can help manage diseases and pests more effectively. Always follow label instructions when using any pesticides, and monitor the plants regularly for signs of disease or pest infestation.
