Origin and Common Names
Sesamum lepidotum Schinz, commonly known as the "Natal sesame," is an herbaceous plant that can be found in various parts of Africa, including Tanzania, Kenya, Mozambique, and South Africa.
General Appearance
The plant is characterized by its upright growth and can reach a height of up to 1 meter. The leaves are small and oblong, measuring about 3-5 cm in length, and are hairy on both sides. The flowers are small and white, and the fruits are capsules that contain small, flat, and oval seeds that are about 2-3 mm long.
Uses
Sesamum lepidotum Schinz is highly valued for its oil and is commonly used in many African countries as a cooking ingredient. The oil is also used for medicinal purposes such as treating skin diseases, fever, and rheumatic pains. The seeds of the plant are used to make a popular African snack known as benne wafers. Additionally, the plant is used as a source of forage for livestock, and its leaves are used as a vegetable in some African countries.
Light Requirements
Sesamum lepidotum Schinz is a plant that requires full sun exposure. It grows best in an environment where it can receive direct sunlight for at least six hours a day. Therefore, it is advisable to plant this species in areas that receive a lot of sunlight, such as open fields and gardens where there are no obstructions to sunlight.
Soil requirements
Sesamum lepidotum Schinz requires well-draining soils with good water holding capacity for optimal growth. The soil must be fertile and rich in nutrients. A slightly acidic soil pH ranging between 5.5-7.0 is best suited for this plant. The addition of organic matter to the soil will help improve soil structure, nutrient content, and water retention capabilities.
Temperature Requirements
Sesamum lepidotum Schinz grows best in warm temperatures. It requires an average temperature range of 25-35°C to thrive. The plant can tolerate some temperature fluctuations but cannot withstand extreme temperatures such as frost. It is therefore advisable to grow this species in areas where the climate is warm and conducive for its growth.
Cultivation methods
Sesamum lepidotum Schinz, also known as the West African sesame, is a plant that is native to Africa and is commonly grown for its edible seeds. To grow this plant successfully, you need to follow these cultivation methods:
- Planting: Sesamum lepidotum Schinz grows best in warm temperatures of 25°C to 35°C. You can plant the seeds directly into the ground or start with seedlings.
- Soil: Plant the seeds in well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Avoid planting in heavy clay soils.
- Sowing: Sow the seeds 2-3 cm deep and 10-15 cm apart. You can have a row spacing of 60-75 cm.
- Light: Sesamum lepidotum Schinz requires full sun exposure for good growth and better yields.
Watering needs
Water is essential for the growth of Sesamum lepidotum Schinz, and you have to ensure that it gets enough water to thrive. Follow these watering practices:
- Regular watering: Sesamum lepidotum Schinz requires consistent watering, especially during the flowering and pod formation stages. Ensure that the plant has enough water to prevent wilting.
- Avoid waterlogging: The soil should be well-draining to avoid waterlogging, which can cause root rot and other diseases.
- Reduce watering during rainy season: During the rainy season, you may reduce the watering as the rainwater can be sufficient.
Fertilization
Sesamum lepidotum Schinz requires nutrients to grow and produce healthy yields. You can add fertilizers to the soil to boost the nutrients level in the soil. Follow these guidelines:
- Organic fertilizers: Sesamum lepidotum Schinz responds well to organic fertilizers like compost and animal manure. Apply the fertilizers before planting or during the growing season.
- Inorganic fertilizers: You can also use inorganic fertilizers like NPK, which you can apply during planting or split applications every 2-3 weeks.
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions: When using fertilizers, ensure that you follow the manufacturer's instructions on application rates and frequency.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to control the size of the plant and promote branching, which can lead to higher yields. Here are pruning tips for Sesamum lepidotum Schinz:
- Remove dead or diseased branches: Remove any dead or diseased branches to promote the growth of healthy branches.
- Pinching: Pinch the top growth of the plant to promote branching, which can lead to more flowers and pods.
- Maintenance pruning: Carry out maintenance pruning by removing any overcrowded or low-quality branches to create more space for the healthy ones to grow.
Propagation of Sesamum lepidotum Schinz
Sesamum lepidotum Schinz is commonly propagated using seeds. It is essential to choose quality seeds and store them properly before planting.
Seed Propagation
Seeds should be collected from healthy plants and stored in a cool, dry place before planting. It is recommended to soak the seeds in water for 24 hours to enhance germination. Plant the seeds at a depth of 1-2 cm in well-drained soil with a pH range of 4.5-8.0. The spacing should be 30-45 cm between rows and 10-15 cm between plants. The best time to plant is during the onset of the rainy season.
Cutting Propagation
Although Sesamum lepidotum Schinz can be propagated through cutting, it is not a common practice. Cuttings are obtained from mature plants with healthy stems. The cuttings should be at least 10 cm long and planted in a mixture of sand and compost. They should be well-watered and kept in a warm, humid place until they establish roots. Cuttings should be planted in individual pots and transplanted to the field when they have developed strong roots.
Disease and Pest Management for Sesamum lepidotum Schinz
As a crop, Sesamum lepidotum Schinz is susceptible to various diseases and pests. However, with good management practices, farmers can minimize the damage and maximize production. Below are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Sesamum lepidotum Schinz is susceptible to various diseases that can affect the yield, quality, and marketability of the crop. The common diseases that may affect Sesamum lepidotum Schinz include leaf spot, powdery mildew, and rust.
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that commonly affects sesame plants. Symptoms of the disease appear as brown or black spots on leaves, which may coalesce to form larger patches. The disease can spread rapidly, leading to defoliation and significant yield losses. To manage leaf spot, farmers can practice crop rotation, use resistant varieties, and apply fungicides.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is another fungal disease that affects sesame plants. Symptoms of the disease include a white or gray powdery growth on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. The disease can significantly impact yield and quality. To manage powdery mildew, farmers can practice good crop sanitation, ensure proper spacing between plants, use resistant varieties, and apply fungicides.
Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that can affect many plant species, including sesame. Symptoms of rust include red-brown pustules on leaves and stems. The disease can cause significant yield losses if left untreated. To manage rust, farmers can use resistant varieties and apply fungicides.
Pests
Sesamum lepidotum Schinz is also susceptible to various pests that can negatively impact the crop's yield and quality. The common pests that may affect Sesamum lepidotum Schinz include stem borers, aphids, and thrips.
Stem Borers: Stem borers are insects that feed on the stems of sesame plants. They can cause extensive damage to the crop, leading to yield losses. To manage stem borers, farmers can practice crop rotation, use resistant varieties, and apply insecticides.
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of sesame plants. They can cause stunted growth, yellowed leaves, and reduced yields. To manage aphids, farmers can practice good crop sanitation, use resistant varieties, and apply insecticides.
Thrips: Thrips are tiny insects that feed on the leaves and flowers of sesame plants. They can cause leaf distortion, discoloration, and deformities in the flowers. To manage thrips, farmers can use resistant varieties and apply insecticides.
