Overview
Plukenetia procumbens Prain, also known as the trailing Sacha inchi, is a perennial plant species that belongs in the family Euphorbiaceae. It is a low-lying shrub that is native to the tropical rainforests of South America, particularly found in the Amazon basin regions of Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, and Colombia. This plant is known for its high nutritional value and medicinal properties and is widely cultivated for its seeds that are rich in oil.
Appearance
The trailing Sacha inchi plant grows up to 1.2 meters in length and has a bushy and spreading habit. It has long, slender branches that are covered with hairs and alternate leaves that are heart-shaped and bright green in color. The flowers are small, greenish-white, and emerge on short stalks from the leaf axils. The fruit is a capsule that is 4-5 centimeters in diameter and contains several seeds that are triangular and brown in color.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Plukenetia procumbens, trailing Sacha inchi, wild Sacha inchi, sneki piki, and Inca-peanut.
Uses
The seeds of the trailing Sacha inchi plant are used for various purposes. The oil extracted from the seeds is rich in essential fatty acids such as omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9, making it a healthy cooking oil. The oil is also added to cosmetics and skincare products due to its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties. In traditional medicine, the oil is used to treat skin conditions, arthritis, and high cholesterol levels. The seeds are also roasted and eaten as a snack or used as a condiment for soups and salads.
Light Requirements
Plukenetia procumbens Prain requires full sunlight for optimal growth and productivity. The plant can tolerate partial shade, but it may negatively impact its growth and yield. Therefore, it is crucial to plant this species in a location where it can receive enough sunlight throughout the day.
Temperature Requirements
Plukenetia procumbens Prain is a tropical plant species that prefers warm temperatures between 25°C and 35°C. The plant can tolerate slight temperature fluctuations, but it is susceptible to frost and colder temperatures. Therefore, it is best to plant this species in areas with a warm and humid climate.
Soil Requirements
The plant thrives in well-drained, fertile, and humus-rich soils. The ideal soil pH for Plukenetia procumbens Prain is between 6.0 and 7.0. The plant is sensitive to waterlogging, which can cause root rot and other diseases. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that the soil is well-draining and does not retain too much moisture. Adding organic matter to the soil can improve its fertility and structure, making it more suitable for the plant's growth and development.
Cultivation methods
Plukenetia procumbens Prain, commonly known as Sacha Inchi, is a tropical perennial plant that requires warm temperatures for growth. The plant is best grown in USDA zones 10 and 11 and will not tolerate temperatures below 50°F. The plant grows best in well-draining soil with a pH of 6.5-7.5.
The ideal location for Sacha Inchi is in full sun or partial shade. It is best propagated by seed or cuttings. Seeds take about 7-14 days to germinate at a temperature of 77-86°F. The plant should be spaced 6-8 feet apart to allow for proper growth.
Watering needs
Sacha Inchi requires regular watering to ensure proper growth and development. The plant should be watered deeply once or twice a week, depending on climate conditions. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other diseases. It is best to water the plant in the early morning or late afternoon to reduce water evaporation and allow for proper absorption.
Fertilization
Sacha Inchi requires regular fertilization for optimal growth. The plant should be fertilized every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Organic fertilizers such as compost, manure, or fish emulsion can also be used. Be careful not to overfertilize, as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth with reduced yields.
Pruning
Sacha Inchi does not require heavy pruning, but light pruning can be done to promote bushier growth and increased yield. Prune back the tips of the plant after the first flowering to promote secondary branching. Remove any dead or diseased branches to prevent the spread of diseases. Sacha Inchi can also be grown on a trellis to promote vertical growth and increase yields.
Propagation of Plukenetia procumbens Prain
Plukenetia procumbens Prain, commonly known as creeping sacha inca, is a Peruvian plant belonging to the Euphorbiaceae family. It is a creeping perennial herb that grows up to 30 cm in height and 1.5 m in length. The plant is propagated through several methods, including seed propagation, vegetative propagation, and cutting propagation.
Seed propagation
The easiest way to propagate creeping sacha inca is through seed propagation. It is important to use fresh, viable seeds for optimal germination rates. The seeds should be placed in a well-draining soil mix and covered lightly with soil. The seeds need to be kept moist but not waterlogged. They will germinate in 2-3 weeks if kept in a warm (20-25°C) and humid environment.
Vegetative propagation
Creeping sacha inca can also be propagated through vegetative propagation. This method involves taking stem cuttings from the mother plant and rooting them. Ensure the cuttings are taken from healthy, disease-free plants. The cuttings should be 6-8 cm long and have 2-3 nodes. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the cuttings in a warm, humid environment until roots develop (usually within 4-8 weeks).
Cutting propagation
Cutting propagation is another effective method for propagating creeping sacha inca. This method involves taking stem cuttings that have naturally fallen or been removed from the mother plant. Ensure the cuttings are healthy and free from disease. Place the cuttings horizontally on a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings need to be kept moist and in a warm, humid environment until roots develop (usually within 4-6 weeks).
Disease and Pest Management for Plukenetia procumbens Prain
Plukenetia procumbens Prain, commonly known as the Sacha inchi plant, is susceptible to various pests and diseases. Proper management practices are essential to protect the plant from damage and ensure a healthy yield. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and the ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes small, sunken lesions on leaves, stems, and fruits. The lesions eventually turn dark brown or black. To manage this disease, ensure proper drainage, avoid overhead irrigation, and practice crop rotation. Fungicides can also be used to control the disease.
Mildew: Mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the Sacha inchi plant, causing a white or grayish powdery growth. To manage this disease, avoid overhead irrigation, provide good air circulation, and ensure the plant has adequate spacing. Fungicides can also be used to prevent further spread of the disease.
Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the Sacha inchi plant, causing them to turn brown and mushy. This disease is often caused by overwatering or poorly drained soils. To manage this disease, ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering. Fungicides can also be used to control the disease.
Common Pests
Aphids: Aphids are tiny insects that suck the sap from the Sacha inchi plant, causing the leaves to curl and yellow. To manage this pest, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Beneficial insects like ladybugs can also be introduced to control the aphid population.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on the Sacha inchi plant's leaves and stems, causing them to turn yellow and dry out. To manage this pest, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Beneficial insects like predatory mites can also be introduced to control the spider mite population.
Cutworms: Cutworms are caterpillars that feed on the Sacha inchi plant's stem, causing it to wilt or cut off. To manage this pest, handpick the caterpillars or use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticide. Plant collars made of paper or cardboard can also be used to prevent cutworms from crawling up the stem.
In conclusion, Sacha inchi farming is profitable when good pest and disease management practices are implemented. Ensuring proper sanitation, crop rotation, and the use of appropriate pest and disease control measures are vital in maintaining a healthy crop. Early detection and effective treatment of diseases and pests can lead to a successful harvest, increase yields, and improve the overall quality of the Sacha inchi plant.
