Overview of Pisum abyssinicum A.Br.
Pisum abyssinicum A.Br. is a unique plant species that belongs to the Fabaceae family. This plant is native to Ethiopia, specifically the Amhara and Tigray regions. In Ethiopia, it is commonly referred to by its local name, "Shamet," which means "wild pea."
Appearance of Pisum abyssinicum A.Br.
The Pisum abyssinicum A.Br. plant is a herbaceous perennial that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. It has an erect stem that is slightly hairy and numerous elongated leaves that are composed of many small leaflets. The plant also produces bright pink or purple flowers with a small yellow spot at their base, which eventually develop into pea pods that contain round, yellowish seeds.
Uses of Pisum abyssinicum A.Br.
The seeds of Pisum abyssinicum A.Br. are an important source of food in Ethiopia. They are often used to make a traditional dish called "Shiro," which is a thick and spicy stew-like dish made from ground peas, spices, and oil. The leaves of the plant are also edible and can be cooked as a vegetable dish. Additionally, the plant has medicinal properties and is used to treat various ailments, including infections, fever, and coughs.
Besides its food and medicinal values, Pisum abyssinicum A.Br. also has great potential as a forage crop and could be used as feed for livestock. This plant is also important in agriculture for soil enrichment due to its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil.
Light Requirements
Pisum abyssinicum A.Br., commonly known as Abyssinian pea, requires full sunlight to grow, and a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight each day is necessary for optimal growth. Lack of proper sunlight can lead to stunted growth and poor production.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Pisum abyssinicum to grow is between 15°C to 25°C; however, it can tolerate temperatures as low as 5°C and as high as 30°C, but extreme temperatures can affect growth. Temperatures below 10°C can slow down growth, while temperatures above 30°C can decrease yield and quality.
Soil Requirements
Pisum abyssinicum grows best in well-draining, loamy soil with a pH range between 6.0 and 7.5. The soil should also be rich in organic matter and have good water-holding capacity. The plant has a deep root system and requires frequent watering, especially during the flowering and fruiting stages. It is also sensitive to waterlogging and poorly drained soils, which can cause root rot and affect growth.
Cultivation methods
Pisum abyssinicum A.Br., commonly known as the Abyssinian pea, is an annual plant that requires well-drained soil and full sunlight. The ideal temperature for cultivation is between 15-25 degrees Celsius. It is usually sowed directly into the soil in early spring, and the seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil. The distance between plants should be between 5-10cm, and the rows should be spaced at around 30-50cm.
Watering needs
Abyssinian pea plants require moderate watering. The soil should not be allowed to dry out completely as this can impact the growth and development of the plant. It is recommended to water the plants at least two times a week and to avoid watering them during the hottest part of the day to prevent water evaporation.
Fertilization
Fertilization is an essential aspect of Pisum abyssinicum A.Br. cultivation. Before planting, it is recommended to add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil. During the growing season, the plants should be fertilized every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer to promote growth. However, it is advisable to avoid over-fertilization as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduced seed production.
Pruning
Pruning is optional but can help to improve the productivity and the overall health of the plant. Prune off dead or damaged leaves and branches to prevent the spread of fungal diseases. Additionally, pinching the plant tips once it reaches 30 cm in height can promote branching.
Propagation of Pisum abyssinicum A.Br.
Pisum abyssinicum A.Br., commonly known as the Abyssinian pea, belongs to the family Fabaceae. This plant is native to Ethiopia and is generally grown for its edible seeds. The propagation of Pisum abyssinicum A.Br. involves two primary methods – sexual propagation and asexual propagation.
Sexual Propagation
The most common method to propagate Pisum abyssinicum A.Br. is through sexual propagation, i.e., through seeds. The seeds of Pisum abyssinicum A.Br. are generally sown in the spring season after the last frost. The seeds must be sown in well-drained soil, and the soil must be kept moist until the seeds germinate.
It is important to note that Pisum abyssinicum A.Br. requires a cool temperature to germinate effectively. The optimum temperature for seed germination is between 10°C to 15°C.
Asexual Propagation
Pisum abyssinicum A.Br. can also be propagated through asexual propagation methods, such as stem cuttings. However, this method of propagation is less common than sexual propagation. The stem cuttings must be taken from actively growing stems of the plant during the spring or summer season.
The stem cuttings must be about 3 to 4 inches long and must be taken from healthy and disease-free plants. The cuttings must be planted in well-drained soil and kept in a semi-shaded area until they develop roots.
It is important to note that asexual propagation through stem cuttings may not always be successful. The success rate of this method of propagation depends on various factors such as humidity, temperature, and the health of the plant.
Disease Management for Pisum abyssinicum A.Br.
Pisum abyssinicum A.Br. is susceptible to various diseases that can negatively impact its growth and yield. Here are some common diseases and ways to manage them:
Fusarium wilt
Fusarium wilt attacks the plant's vascular system, causing wilting, yellowing, and eventually death. To manage this disease, use disease-free seeds, rotate crops, and maintain adequate soil moisture levels.
Anthracnose
Anthracnose affects the plant's leaves, pods, and stems, causing them to develop brown spots. To control this disease, practice crop rotation, remove infected plant material, and apply fungicides.
Root rot
Root rot is caused by fungal pathogens that attack the plant's roots, causing yellowing and wilting. To manage this disease, avoid over-watering, maintain good drainage, and use disease-free seeds.
Pest Management for Pisum abyssinicum A.Br.
There are several pests that can affect the growth and yield of Pisum abyssinicum A.Br. Here are some common pests and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids suck the sap from the plant's leaves, leading to stunted growth and curling of the leaves. To manage this pest, use insecticidal soaps, introduce natural predators, and practice crop rotation.
Thrips
Thrips are small, slender insects that feed on the plant's leaves and flowers, causing them to become distorted and discolored. To control this pest, use sticky traps, introduce natural predators, and spray with insecticides.
Cutworms
Cutworms are larvae of various moths that feed on the plant's stems, causing them to break off at the base. To manage this pest, use collars around the base of each plant, practice crop rotation, and use insecticides if necessary.
