Overview of Stylosanthes Biflora
Stylosanthes biflora (L.) B.S.P. is a flowering plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is a perennial plant that is native to the Caribbean and tropical South America. The plant is commonly referred to as Pencilflower, Pencil flower stylus or Pencilflower stylo. It is an important pasture legume that is valued for its ability to improve soil fertility and its use as forage for livestock.
General Description
The plant has an upright growth habit and typically grows up to 1-2 metres tall. It has a deep taproot system that enables it to tolerate drought conditions. The leaves are trifoliate, with each leaflet being oval-shaped. The flowers of Stylosanthes biflora are small and arranged in clusters on stalks arising from the leaf axils. They are usually pink to purple in colour.
Uses of Stylosanthes Biflora
The plant has a number of uses, including:
- As a forage crop - Stylosanthes biflora is a valuable forage crop that provides a nutritious feed for livestock. It is rich in protein and other nutrients, making it a suitable feed for cattle, sheep, and goats.
- Soil improvement - Stylosanthes biflora is known to improve soil fertility. The deep roots of the plant help to break up compacted soil, allowing for better water infiltration and nutrient uptake by other plants.
- Medicinal purposes - The plant has been used in traditional medicine as a treatment for a number of ailments, including fever, dysentery, and respiratory infections.
Cultivation of Stylosanthes Biflora
Stylosanthes biflora can be grown in a variety of soil types, but grows best in well-drained soils. It is drought-tolerant and can withstand moderate levels of grazing by livestock. The plant can be propagated by seeds or stem cuttings. It is important to note that the seeds of Stylosanthes biflora have hard seed coats, which can reduce germination rates. Treatment with hot water or scarification can improve germination rates.
Overall, Stylosanthes biflora is a valuable plant that has a number of uses. Its ability to improve soil fertility and provide high-quality forage for livestock makes it an important crop in many parts of the world.
Light
Stylosanthes biflora requires full sunlight to grow properly. It can tolerate partial shade, but this can result in reduced growth and lower yields.
Temperature
This plant is typically found in tropical and subtropical regions, where temperatures are warm and relatively stable. It can tolerate temperature fluctuations, but extreme heat or cold can damage the plant. The optimal temperature range for growth is between 20°C and 30°C.
Soil Requirements
Stylosanthes biflora grows best in well-draining, sandy soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant can also grow in clay soils, but these may require additional amendments to improve drainage. The pH of the soil should be between 5.5 and 7.0 for optimal growth. This plant can also tolerate some salt in the soil, making it suitable for coastal areas.
Cultivation of Stylosanthes Biflora
Stylosanthes biflora (L.) B.S.P. is a member of the Fabaceae family and is commonly grown as a forage crop. It is native to tropical and sub-tropical regions of the Americas. It is suitable for cultivation in a wide range of soil types, but grows best in loose, fertile, well-drained soils. It requires temperatures between 20 to 30 degrees Celsius and an annual rainfall of at least 500mm, but preferably around 1000mm.
Watering Needs
Stylosanthes biflora requires regular watering, especially during the growing period. It needs about 25-50mm of water per week, but this amount can vary depending on the climate and soil. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other diseases. It is important to ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization
Fertilization is important for the growth and development of Stylosanthes biflora. It requires a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 2:1:1, such as NPK 20-10-10 or NPK 30-15-15. Apply the fertilizer during the planting process and thereafter every three months. It is essential to avoid over-fertilization, as this can lead to poor growth and reduced yields.
Pruning
Stylosanthes biflora requires regular pruning to encourage vigorous growth and to maintain its shape. Prune the plant after every harvest or when it reaches a height of 30-40cm. Cut the leaves back to about 10-15cm above the ground level. It is essential to remove dead, diseased, and damaged stems to prevent the spread of diseases. Regular pruning also helps to control weed growth and improves yields.
Propagation of Stylosanthes biflora
Stylosanthes biflora (L.) B.S.P. is commonly propagated by its seeds, though it can also be propagated vegetatively through stem cuttings.
Seed Propagation
The most commonly used method for propagating Stylosanthes biflora is through its seeds. The seeds can be collected from the mature pods of the plant during the dry season.
The collected seeds must be cleaned and sorted before sowing. The seeds can be sowed directly on the prepared land, or can be grown in a nursery for transplantation later.
In the nursery, the seeds are sowed in the seedbed. The seedbed's surface should be kept moist without being waterlogged. The seedlings should emerge within 2-3 weeks. The seedlings are then transplanted to the main field when they are around 6-8 weeks old and have at least two true leaves.
Vegetative Propagation
Stylosanthes biflora can be propagated vegetatively through its stem cuttings. The cuttings are taken from the mature plant and planted in a well-prepared land.
The cuttings should be 15-20 cm long with at least two leaves. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be planted in the soil with a spacing of 10-15 cm between each cutting. The soil should be kept moist, and the cuttings should develop roots within a few weeks. The cutting will grow into a new plant in a few months.
Disease and Pest Management for Stylosanthes Biflora (L.) B.S.P.
Stylosanthes biflora is a forage legume plant that is popular for its high protein content. However, it is also susceptible to various pests and diseases that can significantly reduce its yield and quality. Here are some common diseases and pests that may infect the plant, as well as some suggestions on how to manage them:
Diseases
1. Root rot - This disease is caused by several fungi, including Rhizoctonia solani, Fusarium spp., and Pythium spp. It typically affects the roots, causing them to rot and eventually die. The plant may exhibit stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and wilting. To manage root rot, it is recommended to improve the soil drainage, avoid overwatering, and remove infected plants.
2. Anthracnose - This disease is caused by the fungus Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. It causes dark, sunken lesions on leaves, stems, and flowers. Severely infected plants may exhibit defoliation and stunted growth. To manage anthracnose, it is recommended to use fungicides and practice good sanitation by removing infected plant debris.
3. Leaf spot - This disease is caused by several fungal species, including Cercospora spp. and Bipolaris spp. It causes circular, brown lesions on leaves and stems. The disease can reduce the plant's photosynthetic capacity and yield. To manage leaf spot, it is recommended to remove infected plant debris, prune affected branches, and use fungicides as needed.
Pests
1. Aphids - These tiny insects suck the sap from the plant, causing wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth. They also secrete a substance called honeydew, which can attract ants and promote the growth of sooty mold. To manage aphids, it is recommended to use insecticidal soap, neem oil or other insecticides and to encourage the presence of natural predators like ladybeetles and lacewings.
2. Spider mites - These tiny arachnids feed on the plant's sap and cause yellowing, bronzing, and leaf drop. They are more prevalent in hot and dry conditions. To manage spider mites, it is recommended to increase humidity, use insecticidal soap or neem oil and avoid unnecessary use of pesticides.
3. Armyworms - These caterpillars can quickly decimate a crop, causing extensive defoliation and yield loss. They are more prevalent during the rainy season. To manage armyworms, it is recommended to use insecticides like pyrethroids, carbamates, or organophosphates and practice good cultural practices like crop rotation for minimizing their population.
