Origin
Sesamum repens Engl. & Gilg, commonly known as creeping sesame, is a plant species native to Africa, specifically found in Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Common Names
Creeping sesame is known by several different common names depending on the region, some of which include wild sesame, African sesame, and groundcover sesame.
Uses
Creeping sesame has a variety of uses, particularly in African traditional medicine. Its leaves, stems, and roots are used to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive issues, respiratory illnesses, and infections.
Additionally, the plant is used in food preparations, particularly in Tanzania and other African countries, where its seeds are used to make a type of oil used for cooking.
General Appearance
Creeping sesame is a herbaceous plant that grows close to the ground, with stems that can reach up to 3 feet in length. The plant has small, oval-shaped leaves that are about 1 inch in length and are arranged opposite one another along the stem.
It produces small, white or pinkish flowers that are about 0.25 inches across, which develop into small, elongated pods containing several seeds. The seeds are small and brown, and are surrounded by a fibrous outer layer.
Light Requirements
Sesamum repens requires full sunlight exposure to grow optimally. It thrives in areas that receive 6-8 hours of direct sunlight every day. Insufficient light can lead to stunted growth, reduced seed yields, and lower quality seeds. Therefore, it is advisable to plant Sesamum repens in areas with ample sunlight exposure.
Temperature Requirements
Sesamum repens grows best under warm conditions. The ideal temperature range for its growth is between 25°C and 35°C, with an optimal temperature of 30°C. Temperatures lower than 20°C or higher than 40°C can lead to poor growth and yield performance. It is a heat-loving plant and requires warm soil for germination.
Soil Requirements
Sesamum repens grows well in well-draining, loose, and fertile soils. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. The soil should be rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are essential for the plant's growth. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, heavy clay soils can limit root development and reduce seed yield.
Cultivation Methods
Sesamum repens Engl. & Gilg or wild sesame is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to cultivate. It prefers to grow in well-draining soils with pH ranging from slightly acidic to neutral. The plant also needs adequate sunlight and protection from strong winds. It is best to plant Sesamum repens during the rainy season when the soil is moist.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering, especially during seedling establishment and flowering periods. Water the plants twice a week during the dry season, and reduce the frequency during the rainy season to avoid waterlogging and root rot. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization
Sesamum repens is not a heavy feeder, and the use of organic fertilizers is highly encouraged to improve soil fertility and promote healthy growth. Apply compost or well-decomposed manure before planting to boost soil fertility. During the growing season, apply a well-balanced NPK fertilizer every four weeks to provide the plant with essential nutrients for growth and development.
Pruning
Wild sesame requires very minimal pruning. However, it is advisable to remove dead or diseased branches whenever necessary to prevent the spread of diseases. You can also prune the plant to remove unsightly or straggling branches and promote bushier growth. But be careful not to overprune, as it can lead to stress and stunted growth.
Propagation of Sesamum repens Engl. & Gilg
Sesamum repens Engl. & Gilg, commonly known as the creeping sesame plant, is propagated through both seeds and stem cuttings. It is a relatively easy plant to propagate and can be grown indoors or outdoors.
Propagation through seeds
Propagation of Sesamum repens through seeds is ideal during the warmer months of the year. The seeds are small and should be sowed in well-drained soil. The soil should be kept moist until the seeds germinate, which can take anywhere from four to six weeks. Once the seedlings have grown to a height of approximately three inches, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Propagation through stem cuttings
Propagation of Sesamum repens through stem cuttings is also a popular method. Take cuttings from a healthy plant, making sure the cutting is approximately six inches long. Remove the leaves from the lower two inches of the stem, leaving a bare stem. Dip the cutting in a rooting hormone solution and plant it in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and the cutting should start to show roots after two to three weeks.
Overall, propagation of Sesamum repens is a straightforward process and can be easily achieved through both seed and stem cutting methods. Proper care and attention must be given to the plants during the propagation process to ensure healthy and strong growth.
Disease and Pest Management for Sesamum repens Engl. & Gilg
Sesamum repens Engl. & Gilg, commonly known as wild sesame or spreading sesame, can be affected by various diseases and pests. Effective disease and pest management are crucial to ensure the healthy growth and yield of the plant. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggestions on how to manage them.
Common Diseases
Fungal diseases: Wild sesame is susceptible to different fungal diseases, including root rot and wilt caused by Fusarium spp. To manage them, avoid overwatering or waterlogged conditions, ensure good drainage, and use appropriate fungicides.
Bacterial diseases: Wild sesame is also vulnerable to bacterial diseases such as bacterial wilt caused by Xanthomonas spp. Maintain proper sanitation by removing and destroying infected plants, cleaning garden tools, and applying appropriate bactericides.
Viral diseases: The plant may also suffer from viral diseases like sesame mosaic virus, leading to stunted growth and yield reduction. Unfortunately, there are no specific treatments for viral infections. Therefore, focus on preventing the spread of the disease by removing infected plants, controlling the vector, and using certified seeds.
Common Pests
Aphids: These sucking insects can transmit viral diseases and cause defoliation. You can manage aphids by removing them with a strong stream of water, using insecticidal soap or neem oil, or introducing natural predators.
Armyworms: Armyworms are leaf-feeding caterpillars that can cause extensive damage to wild sesame. To manage them, handpick and destroy the larvae, use pesticides, or apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) based products.
Whiteflies: These small, winged pests feed on plant sap and produce a sticky substance known as honeydew, leading to sooty mold growth. You can use yellow sticky bug traps, insecticidal soap, or neem oil to control whiteflies.
In conclusion, disease and pest management are necessary to protect Sesamum repens Engl. & Gilg from various threats that can reduce yield and cause significant damage. Follow the suggested methods, and if the infestation or infection persists despite treatments, consult with local plant specialists.
