Description of Pisum elatius Steven ex M. Bieb.
Pisum elatius, commonly known as wild pea or field pea, is a species of plant from the Fabaceae family. It is native to a vast area of Europe and Asia, ranging from Spain and Scandinavia to Mongolia and Kazakhstan.
General Appearance
Pisum elatius grows up to 1 meter tall and has a climbing habit, attaching to other plants with the help of tendrils. Its leaves are pinnate and bear 2-3 pairs of leaflets, with a terminal one, and measure about 4-8 cm long. The flowers of this plant are small and pale pink or white, clustered in groups of 2-4. The fruit is a cylindrical pod, 4-10 cm long, containing 2-9 seeds. The seeds are elongated, up to 1 cm in length, and vary in color from light brown to green.
Uses
Pisum elatius has several uses. As a wild plant, it serves as fodder for livestock and is also used for soil improvement. Its seeds are edible and can be consumed cooked or turned into sprouts. However, they are not commonly used for human consumption. Pisum elatius also has medicinal properties, such as anti-inflammatory and antipyretic effects. In traditional medicine, it has been used to treat coughs, fever, and dysentery.
In conclusion, Pisum elatius is a versatile plant with several uses, from serving as animal feed to being used in traditional medicine. Its general appearance is that of a climbing plant with small, pale pink flowers and elongated pods containing edible seeds.Light Requirements
Pisum elatius requires full sun exposure to grow and develop properly. It must receive at least six hours of sunlight each day. Lack of adequate light can result in stunted growth and poor flowering. The light can be filtered but should not be obstructed completely, especially during the morning hours.
Temperature Requirements
Pisum elatius grows best in moderate temperatures between 15°C to 20°C. The plant is not frost tolerant and cannot survive in temperatures below -5°C. High temperatures above 25°C can also damage the growth of the plant, affecting its yield and delaying its flowering. It is important to maintain moderate temperatures to ensure proper growth.
Soil Requirements
Pisum elatius requires well-drained soil that is high in organic matter. The pH level of the soil should be between 6 and 7 to ensure optimal growth. The soil should also be fertile, and it benefits from regular applications of nitrogen fertilizer. Too much moisture in the soil can lead to root rot, so it is important to maintain proper drainage.
Cultivation Methods
Pisum elatius is a herbaceous plant that prefers a sunny location in the garden or a field. It grows well in well-drained soils that are fertile and deep. The seeds require a minimum temperature of 10°C to germinate, and the best planting time is mid-March. They can be sown directly in the soil or transplanted when they have reached a height of about 10-15 cm.
Watering Needs
Pisum elatius requires regular watering, especially during hot, dry periods. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, as this may lead to root rot. The best time to water is in the morning or evening, and the plants should be watered at the base to avoid wetting the foliage.
Fertilization
Pisum elatius benefits from regular fertilization to ensure healthy growth. A slow-release fertilizer can be applied at the time of planting, with additional applications every four to six weeks throughout the growing season. It is advisable to avoid over-fertilization, as this can lead to excessive leaf growth and reduced yield.
Pruning
Pisum elatius does not require much pruning, but occasional pinching back of the growing tips can promote bushier growth. The spent flowers and pods should be removed regularly to encourage continued flowering and fruiting. It is advisable to wear gloves when pruning, as the plant has small prickles that can irritate the skin.
Propagation of Pisum elatius Steven ex M. Bieb.
Pisum elatius Steven ex M. Bieb., commonly known as wild pea, can be propagated both from seeds and cuttings. The propagation method depends on the purpose and availability of resources.
Propagation from Seeds
Seeds are the most common method of propagating Pisum elatius. The seeds are easily available, and the success rate is high if provided with ideal growing conditions. The seeds should be collected from the mature pods in early autumn when the pods have fully ripened and changed their color to brown. The collected seeds should be stored in a cool and dry place.
Before sowing, soak the seeds in water for 24 hours, which aids in the process of germination. The germination time of Pisum elatius seeds is around 7-10 days. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil and maintain the soil moisture throughout the germination period. The optimum temperature for germination is 15-24°C. Once the seedlings emerge, gradually increase the exposure to sunlight and protect them from external factors such as pests and harsh weather.
Propagation from Cuttings
Pisum elatius can be propagated by taking stem cuttings from healthy and mature plants. The process involves taking cuttings of around 4-6 inches in length during spring or early summer. The cutting should have at least 2-3 nodes and should be cut in a slanting angle.
The prepared cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone powder and inserted immediately into a well-draining potting mix. The planting mix should be moist, and the cutting should be positioned in a partially shaded area. Cover the potting mix with a plastic sheet, which aids in retaining moisture and heat. The rooting process takes around 3-4 weeks, after which the plastic sheet can be removed. The newly propagated plant should be protected from direct sunlight and harsh weather conditions until they are established.
Disease and Pest Management for Pisum elatius Steven ex M. Bieb
Pisum elatius, commonly known as field pea, is a relatively easy-to-grow plant. However, it is not immune to diseases and pests. Here are some of the common issues that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
Downy Mildew: This fungal disease manifests as yellow spots that turn brown on the leaves and stems. It impairs photosynthesis and weakens the plant. To manage it, avoid wetting the leaves when watering and improve air circulation by spacing plants adequately.
Anthracnose: This fungal disease presents as dark spots with reddish-brown margins on the leaves and stems. It causes leaves to yellow and drop, and stems to rot. To manage it, avoid overhead watering and provide adequate drainage.
Leaf Spot: This fungal disease creates spots on the leaves that turn yellow and spread rapidly to other parts of the plant. To manage it, remove affected leaves and dispose of them. Avoid watering the leaves, and provide adequate ventilation and spaced plants.
Common Pests
Aphids: These sap-sucking insects cluster on the underside of leaves and cause curling, yellowing, and stunted growth. To manage them, introduce natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings or use insecticidal soap.
Cutworms: These caterpillars feed on stems, causing plants to wilt and die. To manage them, handpick them at night when they are active or use biological control such as beneficial nematodes.
Spider Mites: These tiny mites cause yellow speckling on leaves and webs on the undersides. To manage them, spray with water to wash them off or use insecticidal soap. Avoid over-fertilization, which attracts them.
By managing these common diseases and pests, you can keep Pisum elatius healthy and thriving.
