Overview
Pisum syriacum (A. Berger) Lehman, commonly known as Syrian pea, is a legume plant that has been cultivated for its edible seeds since ancient times. This plant is an annual herb in the Fabaceae family and is believed to have originated from the Middle East, particularly Syria, hence its common name.Description
The Syrian pea plant is a climbing herb that can grow up to 2.5 meters in height. It has a slender but sturdy stem, which bears several pairs of leaflets that are typically oval-shaped and smooth. Each leaflet measures about 2-4 cm long and 1-2 cm broad. The plant blooms with fragrant white or pinkish flowers that usually grow in pairs or threes on short stalks. The flowers are followed by elongated pods that grow up to 10 cm long, containing several seeds each, which become flat, green or beige in color when mature.Uses
The Syrian pea plant is mainly grown for its edible seeds, which are commonly known as chickpeas or garbanzo beans. Chickpeas are rich in protein, dietary fiber, and essential minerals, making them a healthy and culturally significant source of nutrition worldwide. The plant is also admired for its nitrogen-fixing capability, which boosts soil fertility and reduces the need for chemical fertilizers. Additionally, chickpeas are used in different cuisines, such as in hummus, soups, stews, and salads.Cultivation
Syrian pea plants are primarily grown in areas with a mild and dry climate. They prefer well-drained soils with a neutral pH range of 6.0-7.5. Sowing typically takes place between late autumn and early winter in cooler areas and between early spring and early summer in warmer regions. The seedlings germinate quickly and grow vigorously, producing good yields after about 3-6 months. Syrian peas are usually harvested when the pods are dry and turn a beige or brownish color. The plant is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, which can significantly reduce crop yield if not managed properly.Light Requirements
Pisum syriacum or Syrian pea plant requires ample sunlight exposure to grow. It grows best in full sun, which means at least six hours of sunlight during the day. Insufficient sunlight could lead to stunted growth and reduced yield.
Temperature Requirements
The Syrian pea plant is suitable for planting in areas with a warm and temperate climate. It thrives best when the temperature ranges from 18°C to 21°C. The plant does not tolerate high temperatures and prefers a relative humidity of about 50%. Frost can be detrimental to the Syrian pea plant, which means it cannot withstand temperatures below -3°C.
Soil Requirements
The Syrian pea plant grows well in medium-textured soil with a pH ranging from 6.5 to 7.5. The soil should also be well-drained, rich in organic matter, and capable of holding moisture. The plants do not perform well in heavy clay or sandy soils. The ideal soil for the Syrian pea plant would be loamy and rich in phosphorous, which is essential for root development.
Cultivation Methods
Pisum syriacum (A. Berger) Lehman, commonly known as Syrian pea, prefers to grow in full sunlight, but can also tolerate partial shade. It grows best in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It is best to plant Syrian pea seeds in the spring or fall after the last frost. The seeds should be planted 1-2 inches deep and 2-3 inches apart. If planting rows, the rows should be spaced 18-24 inches apart.
Watering Needs
Syrian pea plants require regular watering, particularly during the flowering and fruiting stages. The soil should be kept moderately moist, but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other plant diseases. It is best to water the plants early in the morning or late in the day to prevent evaporation and ensure the water reaches the roots.
Fertilization
Pisum syriacum (A. Berger) Lehman benefits from regular fertilization to encourage healthy growth and flowering. A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 should be applied every 4-6 weeks throughout the growing season. Alternatively, a slow-release fertilizer can be applied at the beginning of the season to provide nutrients gradually over time. It is essential not to over-fertilize the plant as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flower and fruit production.
Pruning
Pruning Pisum syriacum (A. Berger) Lehman is not necessary but can help to improve airflow, increase sunlight penetration, and encourage bushier growth. When the plant reaches 6-8 inches in height, pinch off the top of the stem to promote branching. Additionally, remove any yellowing or dead leaves regularly to prevent the spread of disease. Remove any tendrils that grow away from the trellis or support structure to prevent damage to the plant.
Propagation of Pisum syriacum (A. Berger) Lehman
Pisum syriacum (A. Berger) Lehman, also known as Syrian pea or chickling pea, can be propagated through various methods. These include:
Seed Propagation
One of the simplest and most common methods of propagating Pisum syriacum is through seed propagation. The seeds are sown directly into the soil or in flats or pots filled with a well-draining, fertile soil mix. The seeds should be spaced 2-3 inches apart, and the soil should be moistened but not waterlogged. Germination time usually takes 7-14 days, depending on the conditions.
Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is possible with Pisum Syriacum. Cuttings should be taken from young, vigorous plants, ideally in the spring. Cuttings should be taken from the top shoots of plants and should be about 4-6 inches long. The bottom of the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and placed in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the cuttings in a warm, shady area and keep the soil moist until roots have formed, which usually takes 4-6 weeks.
Division
Propagation through division is also possible but not very common with Pisum Syriacum. This method is useful for mature plants that have started to form clumps. Dig up the clump and separate the plants into sections, each with its own set of roots. Replant the sections in a similar soil mix as the original plant.
Grafting
Grafting is another method of propagation that can be used for Pisum Syriacum. This technique involves taking a cutting from a desired plant and attaching it onto a rootstock of a different plant. The rootstock provides the roots and a sturdy base, while the desired plant provides the fruit or flowers.
Propagation of Pisum Syriacum can be done through various methods, but seed propagation is the most common way of propagating this plant. Whichever method is used, care should be taken to ensure that the plant is healthy and that the soil and climate conditions are suitable for growth.
Disease and Pest Management for Pisum syriacum
Pisum syriacum, or Syrian pea, is a type of legume that is commonly grown for its edible seeds. However, like any other plant species, it is vulnerable to a range of diseases and pests that can reduce its yield and quality. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that may affect Pisum syriacum and some ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
1. Powdery mildew - This is a fungal disease that appears as white, powdery patches on the leaves and stems of the plant. It can reduce the plant's ability to photosynthesize and weaken it, making it more vulnerable to other diseases and pests.
Management: Powdery mildew can be managed by ensuring adequate air circulation around the plants and watering them from beneath rather than above. Fungicidal sprays can also be used, but these should be applied early on to prevent the disease from spreading.
2. Fusarium wilt - This is a soil-borne fungal disease that affects the plant's vascular system, causing it to wilt and eventually die. It can also cause yellowing and browning of the leaves.
Management: There is no cure for Fusarium wilt, so prevention is key. This can be done by planting disease-resistant cultivars, avoiding planting in areas where the disease has occurred before, and practicing good sanitation, such as disinfecting tools and removing infected plants.
3. Anthracnose - This is a fungal disease that affects the plant's pods, causing dark lesions on them. It can also cause the leaves to yellow and drop prematurely.
Management: Anthracnose can be managed by practicing good sanitation, such as removing infected plant debris, and using copper-based fungicides.
Common Pests
1. Aphids - These are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the plant, causing it to weaken and distort. They can also transmit viral diseases.
Management: Aphids can be managed by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil, or by introducing natural predators, such as ladybugs.
2. Cutworms - These are the larvae of certain species of moths, and they feed on the plant's stems at the soil level, causing them to wilt and die.
Management: Cutworms can be managed by placing collars of cardboard or foil around the base of the plant to prevent them from accessing it. They can also be picked off by hand or controlled with the use of Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) spray.
3. Thrips - These are tiny, winged insects that feed on the plant's leaves, causing purple or brown streaks on them. They can also transmit viral diseases.
Management: Thrips can be managed by using sticky traps to capture them or by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
By implementing these disease and pest management strategies, growers can ensure that their Pisum syriacum plants remain healthy and productive throughout their growing season.
