Overview
Solanum ndellense A.Chev., also known as Djarkawal, is a plant species of the Solanaceae family that is native to West Africa.
Common Names
In addition to Djarkawal, Solanum ndellense A.Chev. is also known by a variety of other common names, including wild tomato, bitter tomato, and African eggplant.
Uses
The fruit of Solanum ndellense A.Chev. is edible once it has ripened, but is often bitter and therefore not commonly consumed. In some West African cultures, the plant is used for medicinal purposes to treat conditions such as fever, stomach ache, and malaria. Additionally, the leaves of the plant are sometimes used as a leafy green vegetable.
Appearance
Solanum ndellense A.Chev. is an annual or perennial herb that grows up to one meter in height. The plant has a spiny stem and branches, and leaves that are ovate to oblong in shape and up to 20 centimeters long. The flowers are white or pale blue in color with yellow anthers, and the fruit is a small berry that is yellow when matured.
Light requirements
Solanum ndellense A.Chev. grows best under full sun exposure. It requires at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Insufficient light will result in weak stunted growth and poor flowering.
Temperature requirements
Solanum ndellense A.Chev. is a tropical plant and requires warm temperatures to grow. The ideal temperature for the plant ranges between 20°C to 30°C. Temperatures below 10°C and above 35°C can damage the plant.
Soil requirements
The plant requires well-drained, moist soil rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.5. Heavy clay soils will hinder root development and cause poor growth. Sandy soils with low water content will also not support growth adequately.
Cultivation Methods
Solanum ndellense A.Chev. is a plant species from the Solanaceae family and is native to tropical Central Africa. It is often grown as a landscaping plant in some regions, and it can also grow well in gardens and pots.
The plant thrives in full sunlight, but it also tolerates a bit of shade. It is best grown in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0-7.0. The soil should be rich in organic matter, and it should be moist but not waterlogged.
Solanum ndellense A.Chev. is planted from seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in a seedling tray, with the seedlings transplanted to larger pots or the garden after they reach a height of four inches. Cuttings should be taken from mature plants, and the stems should be planted in well-draining, fertile soil until roots develop.
Watering Needs
Solanum ndellense A.Chev. requires regular watering to thrive. The plant needs to be watered consistently to ensure that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Make sure that the plant's soil does not dry out completely, especially during hot and dry weather conditions.
It is best to water the plant early in the day to allow excess moisture to evaporate, reducing the risk of fungal diseases. Avoid watering the leaves of the plant, as water droplets can damage them and cause fungal problems.
Fertilization
Solanum ndellense A.Chev. benefits from regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and development. Apply a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the active growing season, starting from early spring and continuing through to fall.
You can also use slow-release fertilizers or organic options such as compost or manure. These should be applied during the start of the growing season, and they can help provide nutrients for the entire growing season.
Pruning
Solanum ndellense A.Chev. requires minimal pruning, but pruning can help keep the plant in shape and prevent overcrowding. Prune away any dead or damaged branches to keep the plant healthy.
Pruning can also help promote bushier growth, especially if the plant becomes leggy. Prune the tips of the branches by one-third to encourage more lateral growth. Pruning should be done during the winter season when the plant is dormant.
Propagation of Solanum ndellense A.Chev.
Solanum ndellense A.Chev. can be propagated through different methods. Here are some of the most effective ways to propagate this plant:
Seed Propagation
One of the easiest ways to propagate Solanum ndellense A.Chev. is through seeds. The seeds can be collected from the ripened fruits of healthy plants. Before sowing, the seeds should be cleaned and air-dried for a few days. The best time to sow Solanum ndellense A.Chev. is during the spring season. The seeds should be sown in a seedbed or a pot filled with seed-starting mix. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and keep them moist until germination.
Cuttings Propagation
Solanum ndellense A.Chev. can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Choose a healthy stem that is free from any diseases and pests. The stem cutting should have at least two nodes. Remove the lower leaves, leaving only a few at the top. Dip the cut end in a rooting hormone and plant it in a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a shaded area until the roots form. Once the roots have formed, the plant can be moved to its permanent location.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is another effective way to propagate Solanum ndellense A.Chev. Choose a mature stem and make a small cut on the stem, just below a node. Wrap the wounded area with wet sphagnum moss or peat moss. Then, wrap the moss with plastic wrap and secure it with a string. Keep the moss moist until the roots form. Once the roots have formed, cut the stem below the rooted area and pot the plant in a well-draining soil mix.
By using any of these propagation methods, it is possible to rapidly propagate Solanum ndellense A.Chev. and produce healthy plants in a shorter period.
Disease and Pest Management of Solanum ndellense A.Chev.
Solanum ndellense A.Chev is a plant that can be affected by various diseases and pests. Managing these issues is important to keep the plant healthy and productive. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that may affect Solanum ndellense A.Chev and ways to manage them.
Diseases
1. Bacterial Wilt: This disease is caused by a soil-borne bacteria called Ralstonia solanacearum. The plant may show symptoms such as wilting, yellowing of leaves, and stunted growth. The best way to manage this disease is by planting disease-free seedlings and avoiding overwatering. Crop rotation and the use of resistant cultivars can also be implemented.
2. Fusarium Wilt: Fusarium fungi cause this vascular wilt disease that affects many plants. The plant's leaves may turn yellow and wither. The best way to control this disease is by planting disease-free seedlings in well-drained soil. Fungicides such as copper-based products can also be used for management. Proper soil management and crop rotation can also be implemented.
Pests
1. Aphids: These small insects feed on sap from the plant, causing leaves to curl and yellow. Management of aphids can be done by introducing natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings. The use of insecticidal soap or neem oil spray can also be helpful.
2. Spider Mites: These tiny pests pierce the plant's cells and feed on the sap, causing leaves to discolor and dry out. Spider mites can be managed by washing plants with a strong jet of water and introducing natural predators such as predatory mites and ladybugs. Insecticidal soap or neem oil spray can also be effective.
By being aware of the common diseases and pests that may affect Solanum ndellense A.Chev and implementing the appropriate management practices, the plant can thrive and produce bountiful yields.
