Overview of Pisum arvense L. var. abyssinicum (A.Br.) Alef.
Pisum arvense L. var. abyssinicum (A.Br.) Alef. is an annual leguminous herb, belonging to the family Fabaceae. It is commonly known as the Abyssinian field pea and is believed to have originated from Ethiopia.
Appearance of Pisum arvense L. var. abyssinicum (A.Br.) Alef.
The Abyssinian field pea plant can grow up to 60cm in height and has slender, branched stems. The plant has pinnately compound leaves, with each leaflet oval-shaped and around 2-4cm long. The flowers are pea-like in shape, with a combination of blue and lavender petals. The seed pods are curved and around 2-4cm long.
Uses of Pisum arvense L. var. abyssinicum (A.Br.) Alef.
The Abyssinian field pea has various uses because of its high protein content and excellent nutritional value. In Ethiopia, it is widely cultivated as a pulse crop, for both human consumption and animal fodder. The plant is suitable for intercropping with cereals, such as wheat and barley. Additionally, it contributes to soil fertility through its ability to fix nitrogen.
The leaf, stem, and seed of Pisum arvense L. var. abyssinicum (A.Br.) Alef. are used for medicinal purposes. Tea made from the leaves is used in treating stomach disorders, while the pods are used for food seasoning. The seeds are roasted and consumed as a snack. They can also be added to soups and stews to enhance their nutritional content.
The Abyssinian field pea is also grown as a cover crop, with its dense foliage helping to control soil erosion, suppress weeds, and conserve soil moisture.
In conclusion, Pisum arvense L. var. abyssinicum (A.Br.) Alef. Is an essential leguminous plant with several uses in Ethiopia and worldwide. It is a highly nutritious plant and contributes positively to soil fertility.Light Requirements
Pisum arvense L. var. abyssinicum (A.Br.) Alef. requires full sunlight to grow optimally. It is a photophilic plant that requires a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight per day. Lack of proper lighting may lead to stunted growth, reduced yield, and poor development of the plant.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for the growth of Pisum arvense L. var. abyssinicum falls between 13°C and 23°C. However, the plant can tolerate temperature fluctuations, particularly cold temperatures. The plant requires cooler temperatures during the germination stage as high temperatures can affect the germination rate and cause plant death.
Soil Requirements
Pisum arvense L. var. abyssinicum grows best in well-drained sandy loam soils rich in organic matter. The soil pH range preferred by the plant is between 6.0 and 7.5. The plant has a shallow root system; thus, the soil should be able to retain moisture without waterlogging, which can lead to plant death. The soil should have sufficient nutrients, including phosphorus, potassium, and nitrogen, for optimal growth and yield.
Cultivation methods for Pisum arvense L. var. abyssinicum
Pisum arvense L. var. abyssinicum (A.Br.) Alef., commonly known as field pea or dry pea, is an annual crop that is easy to cultivate. It requires a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can be grown in most soils, making it quite versatile. It is advisable to plant field pea in a place that has full exposure to sunlight.
Watering needs for Pisum arvense L. var. abyssinicum
Regular watering is crucial for the success of Pisum arvense L. var. abyssinicum. The plant should be watered deeply, so the moisture reaches the deep roots, preventing them from drying out. The frequency of watering will depend on the amount of rainfall received by the plant. If the weather is hot and dry, the plant may require frequent watering.
Fertilization for Pisum arvense L. var. abyssinicum
Pisum arvense L. var. abyssinicum requires fertile soil to thrive. Before planting, it is recommended to fertilize the soil with compost or well-rotted manure. During the growing season, it is advisable to apply nitrogen-rich fertilizer to enhance the growth of the plant. However, excess nitrogen can result in delayed maturity, and, therefore, it is best to apply a modest amount of fertilizer.
Pruning for Pisum arvense L. var. abyssinicum
Pruning is not necessary for Pisum arvense L. var. abyssinicum. However, if the plant becomes too bushy, some pruning can be done to enhance air circulation and sunlight exposure. Pruning is done by removing some of the branches at the center of the plant, which allows for adequate light penetration to all parts of the plant. Additionally, any yellow or withered leaves should be removed promptly to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Pisum arvense L. var. abyssinicum
Pisum arvense L. var. abyssinicum (A.Br.) Alef. is typically propagated by seeds. The plant is an annual, and its seeds germinate quickly and easily in the right conditions. Here are some methods of propagating Pisum arvense L. var. abyssinicum:
Direct Sowing
The easiest and most common method of propagating Pisum arvense L. var. abyssinicum is by direct sowing. In areas with a long growing season, seeds can be sown directly into the ground in early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked. The seeds should be planted 1-2 inches deep and spaced 2-4 inches apart in rows that are 18-24 inches apart. The soil should be kept moist until the seedlings emerge.
Transplanting Seedlings
In areas with a shorter growing season, Pisum arvense L. var. abyssinicum can be started indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date. Plant the seeds in seedling trays or pots filled with potting mix. Keep the soil moist and warm (around 60-70°F) until the seedlings emerge. Once the seedlings have developed two sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted outdoors. The seedlings should be spaced 2-4 inches apart in rows that are 18-24 inches apart.
Cuttings
Pisum arvense L. var. abyssinicum can also be propagated from cuttings, but this method is less common. To propagate the plant from cuttings, select a healthy stem with several leaves. Cut the stem at a 45-degree angle just below a node. Remove all leaves from the bottom half of the stem. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a pot filled with moist potting mix. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a bright, warm location. The cutting should root in 3-4 weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Pisum arvense L. var. abyssinicum (A.Br.) Alef.
Pisum arvense L. var. abyssinicum (A.Br.) Alef., commonly known as Abyssinian pea, is a cool-season legume that is primarily used for forage and as a cover crop. While Abyssinian pea is generally hardy, it can be susceptible to various pests and diseases that can adversely affect its growth and productivity. Identifying and managing these issues is critical to maintaining healthy plants and achieving the desired crop yield.
Common Diseases
1. Fusarium Wilt: Fusarium wilt is a fungal disease that is common in pea plants, including Abyssinian pea. The pathogen typically attacks the plants through the roots, causing wilting, stunting, and yellowing of the leaves. Control measures include crop rotation, soil sterilization, the use of resistant cultivars, and fungicide treatments.
2. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a common foliar disease caused by the fungus Erysiphe pisi. The disease presents as a white, powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and pods. It can cause reduced plant growth, yield loss, and early plant death. Cultural controls, such as proper plant spacing, pruning, and avoiding overhead irrigation, can help prevent powdery mildew. Fungicides can also be effective in controlling the disease.
3. Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that can affect Abyssinian pea, particularly in wet, poorly drained soils. Infected plants may exhibit a range of symptoms, including yellowing and stunting of the plants, root discoloration, and plant death. To prevent root rot, it is important to ensure proper soil drainage and avoid overwatering. Crop rotation and the use of resistant cultivars can also be effective in reducing the risk of the disease.
Common Pests
1. Pea Aphids: Pea aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They can cause reduced plant growth, distorted leaves, and reduced yield. Natural predators, such as ladybugs and lacewings, can be effective in controlling pea aphids. Insecticidal soaps and oils may also be used to manage infestations.
2. Cutworms: Cutworms are the larvae of several species of moths and can cause significant damage to young plants by cutting them down at the base. Control measures include handpicking, the use of physical barriers, such as collars around the plant stems, and insecticides.
3. Root-Knot Nematodes: Root-knot nematodes are microscopic soil-dwelling worms that can cause stunted growth, yellowing, and reduced yield. To manage root-knot nematodes, it is important to plant resistant cultivars, rotate crops, and treat the soil with nematicides as needed.
In conclusion, managing pests and diseases is critical to maintaining healthy and productive Abyssinian pea plants. A combination of cultural controls and chemical treatments can be used to effectively manage most pests and diseases, but prevention through good crop management practices is often the best approach.
