Introduction
Strychnos mongonda De Wild, also known as the False Mongongo, is a plant species belonging to the genus Strychnos in the family Loganiaceae. It is native to Africa and was first described by botanist Émile Auguste Joseph De Wildeman in 1909.
Common Names
The plant Strychnos mongonda De Wild is commonly known as False Mongongo, Fetteh, Fetteh-mongonga, Mabira, and Nkono.
Appearance
Strychnos mongonda De Wild is a perennial, medium-sized, and spreading shrub that can grow up to 6 meters high. The plant has a straight stem covered with a grey or yellow bark that peels off in patches. The leaves are oval or elliptical, dark green, and glossy with prominent veins arranged oppositely along the stem. The plant's flowers are small and greenish-yellow, located in axillary clusters that bloom from June to August. Its fruits are fleshy, round or elliptical, and grey-brown with a hard shell containing several seeds.
Uses
The berries of Strychnos mongonda De Wild are edible but are not favored due to the bitter taste. The plant, however, has many medicinal properties and is used traditionally for a variety of ailments such as fever, malaria, stomach problems, and to boost the immune system. The bark contains alkaloids such as strychnine and brucine, which have been used to stimulate the central nervous system. The plant's wood is used for fuel and making wooden handles for farm tools, while the leaves are used as fodder for livestock.
Light Requirements
Strychnos mongonda De Wild. is a plant that thrives in bright, direct sunlight. It requires a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight per day for optimal growth and development. The plant can also tolerate partial shade, but prolonged periods without adequate sunlight will inhibit its growth and yield.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Strychnos mongonda De Wild. is between 21°C to 29°C. The plant cannot endure frost or extreme cold, as these conditions will limit its ability to germinate, grow, and produce fruit. The plant may require extra care during winter and cold seasons, such as providing adequate shelter or supplemental heating.
Soil Requirements
Strychnos mongonda De Wild. thrives in well-drained and fertile soil. The soil should be loamy, rich in nutrients, aerated, and with a pH of between 5.5 and 7.5. The plant thrives in soil that contains organic matter, such as composted manure or leaf mold. The soil should also be free from weeds, pests, and diseases that can hinder the plant's growth and fruit production.
Cultivation Methods for Strychnos mongonda De Wild.
Strychnos mongonda De Wild., commonly known as Mongongo, is a slow-growing tree that is native to southern Africa. It can grow up to 20 meters tall under optimal conditions. The tree is known for its nutritious and edible fruit, which is rich in vitamins and minerals. To cultivate S. mongonda, you should follow the steps below:
- Choose an appropriate site: Mongongo trees prefer well-draining soils with a pH of 6.0-7.5. They require plenty of space and can be grown in both full sun and partial shade.
- Prepare the soil: The soil should be loosened and cleared of any weeds or debris before planting. You can improve soil fertility by adding organic matter such as compost or manure.
- Plant the tree: Dig a hole that is twice as wide and deep as the root ball of the tree. Place the tree in the hole, backfill with soil, and water thoroughly. Mongongo trees should be planted during the rainy season to avoid stress.
- Maintain the tree: Water the tree regularly, especially during dry spells. Mulching around the tree can help to retain moisture and prevent weeds. Monitor for any pest or disease problems and control if necessary.
Watering Needs for Strychnos mongonda De Wild.
Watering is a crucial component of growing healthy and productive mongongo trees. The tree requires regular watering, especially during the early stages of growth.
- Frequency: Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season. Increase the frequency during hot and dry weather.
- Amount: Give the tree enough water to saturate the soil to a depth of at least 30 centimeters. Use a hose or drip irrigation system to ensure even watering.
- Avoid overwatering: Mongongo trees do not tolerate waterlogged soils, which can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Fertilization for Strychnos mongonda De Wild.
Fertilization is another essential aspect of caring for mongongo trees. These trees need specific nutrients to grow and produce fruit.
- Timing: Fertilize the tree during the early stages of growth, preferably before the rainy season begins.
- Type of fertilizer: Use a balanced fertilizer containing equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. Alternatively, you can use organic fertilizer such as compost or manure.
- Application: Apply the fertilizer evenly around the base of the tree, avoiding contact with the trunk. Water the tree immediately after fertilization to help the nutrients penetrate the soil.
Pruning for Strychnos mongonda De Wild.
Pruning helps to maintain the shape and size of the tree and promotes healthy growth.
- Timing: Prune mongongo trees during the dry season when the tree is dormant.
- Tools: Use sharp and clean tools such as pruning shears or loppers.
- Technique: Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches first. Then, thin out any overcrowded branches or those that cross and rub against each other. Finally, trim back the top of the tree to control its height and shape.
- Cleanup: Remove all the pruning debris to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Strychnos mongonda De Wild.
Strychnos mongonda De Wild. can be propagated by seeds, cuttings, or grafting.
Propagation by seeds
Seeds should be collected from ripe fruits and sown immediately. The seeds should be removed from the fleshy fruit and cleaned. They can be sown in a mixture of sand and compost in a ratio of 1:1. The seeds should be sown about 1 cm deep and watered regularly. Germination usually occurs within 2-3 weeks.
Propagation by cuttings
Cuttings can be taken from the semi-hardwood of mature trees during the growing season. The cuttings should be about 15-20 cm long and should have at least two nodes. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be treated with a rooting hormone. The cuttings should be planted in a mixture of sand and compost in a ratio of 1:1 and kept moist.
Propagation by grafting
Strychnos mongonda De Wild. can also be propagated by grafting onto rootstocks of related species. The best time for grafting is during the growing season. The scion should be taken from the current season's growth and the rootstock should be chosen for its vigor and disease resistance. The scion should be grafted onto the rootstock using the cleft or splice method.
Disease and Pest Management for Strychnos mongonda De Wild.
Strychnos mongonda De Wild. is a perennial liana native to Central and West Africa. As with any plant, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can significantly affect its yield and overall health. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect Strychnos mongonda De Wild. and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Bacterial wilt: This disease is caused by Ralstonia solanacearum, a soil-borne bacterium that affects the vascular tissues of the plant, leading to wilting, yellowing, and eventual death. Infected plants should be removed and destroyed immediately to prevent the spread of the bacterium. Crop rotation, sanitation, and soil fumigation can also help prevent the disease.
Anthracnose: This fungal disease is caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, which infects the leaves, fruits, and stems of the plant. Symptoms include dark sunken lesions, premature leaf drop, and fruit rot. The disease can be controlled by applying fungicides, practicing good sanitation, and removing infected plant debris.
Powdery mildew: This fungal disease is caused by Erysiphe cichoracearum and affects the leaves and stems of the plant, leading to a white powdery covering. Infected plants can be treated with fungicides or neem oil, and proper ventilation and sanitation can help prevent the disease.
Pests
Aphids: These small sap-sucking insects can cause stunted growth, yellowing, and curling of leaves. They can be controlled by releasing natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings or by applying insecticides.
Mealybugs: These soft-bodied insects are covered with a white powdery substance and can cause yellowing and distorted growth of leaves. They can be controlled by removing infected plant parts and applying insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Scale insects: These tiny insects attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant and suck the sap, causing yellowing and leaf drop. They can be controlled by removing infected plant parts and applying a solution of soap and water or neem oil.
Regular monitoring and proper hygiene practices can go a long way in preventing the spread of diseases and pests in Strychnos mongonda De Wild. plants. It is essential to identify and address any issues promptly to ensure the plant's optimal growth and yield.
