Overview
Triticum polonicum L. subsp. abyssinicum (Steud.) Vav. is a subspecies of wild wheat that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is known for its hardy nature and its ability to survive in harsh environmental conditions.
Origin
This plant is native to Ethiopia and has been grown in East Africa for centuries. It is also found in other parts of Africa, like Sudan, Somalia, and Eritrea.
Common Names
This plant is known by various names, like Ethiopian wheat, Abyssinian wheat, and African wheat.
Appearance
Triticum polonicum L. subsp. abyssinicum is characterized by its tall stature, reaching an average height of 1.5-2 meters. Its stems are slender and feature a grayish-green hue with an erect position. The leaves are narrow and elongated, with a bluish-green tint. The spikelets are usually compact, and they are surrounded by long awns that protect the grain from predators.
Uses
This subspecies of wheat has great economic and nutritional importance in East Africa, where it is widely grown and consumed. It is a staple food for many communities and is used to make various dishes like bread, porridge, and pancakes. Ethiopia is the biggest producer and consumer of Triticum polonicum L. subsp. abyssinicum.
Aside from its food uses, this plant plays a crucial ecological role in East Africa. Its long roots help to hold soil particles together and prevent soil erosion. Triticum polonicum L. subsp. abyssinicum's drought tolerance is another crucial characteristic for farmers in regions that experience long spells of drought.
Moreover, this subspecies of wheat is a good source of essential nutrients like vitamins B and E, proteins, and minerals.
In conclusion, Triticum polonicum L. subspecies abyssinicum is a plant with great cultural, economic, ecological, and nutritional significance in East Africa. Its ability to thrive in adverse environmental conditions and its nutritional value make it an indispensable crop for many communities.Light Requirements
Triticum polonicum L. subsp. abyssinicum (Steud.) Vav. commonly known as Abyssinian wheat, requires full sun exposure to grow optimally.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can adapt to a diverse range of temperatures, but its optimal growth temperature ranges from 15 °C to 25 °C. Temperatures above 32 °C or below 3 °C can be detrimental to the plant's growth and development.
Soil Requirements
Triticum polonicum L. subsp. abyssinicum (Steud.) Vav. can grow well in a variety of soils provided adequate water is available. It prefers well-draining, sandy-loam soils that are rich in organic matter and have a pH range of 5.5 to 8.0. The plant can tolerate low to medium levels of soil salinity. However, excessive salinity can adversely affect its growth.
Cultivation methods
Triticum polonicum L. subsp. abyssinicum (Steud.) Vav. is best cultivated in well-drained soil with a pH ranging from 6.5-8.0. The plant requires full sun exposure for about 6-8 hours per day. It is advisable to plant the seeds in rows with a spacing of 6 inches between each seed. The seeds should be sown to a depth of about 1-2 inches, and the soil should be kept moist until germination.
Watering needs
The plant requires moderate watering. Care should be taken to avoid waterlogging the soil as this can lead to root rot. The amount of water required will vary depending on the prevailing weather conditions. During the hot and dry season, the plant may require more water, while in cooler weather, less water may be required.
Fertilization
Triticum polonicum L. subsp. abyssinicum (Steud.) Vav. should be fertilized before planting using a balanced fertilizer containing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in a 4:3:2 ratio. During the growing season, it is advisable to top-dress the plants with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer after they reach a height of about six inches. This will encourage healthy growth and increase yield.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Triticum polonicum L. subsp. abyssinicum (Steud.) Vav. However, it may be necessary to remove diseased or damaged plant parts to prevent the spread of disease. Care should be taken when pruning to avoid damaging healthy parts of the plant. Regular inspection of the plant is necessary to detect any signs of disease or damage at an early stage.
Propagation Methods for Triticum polonicum L. subsp. abyssinicum (Steud.) Vav.
Triticum polonicum L. subsp. abyssinicum (Steud.) Vav. Is a cereal crop mainly grown for human consumption, animal feed, and soil conservation purposes. To propagate this plant, various methods can be used depending on environmental conditions, time, and resources available.
Seeds Propagation
One of the most common methods of propagating Triticum polonicum L. subsp. abyssinicum (Steud.) Vav. is through seed propagation. The seeds are readily available, and they can be obtained from the plant's mature spikes. The spikes are harvested when fully mature, threshed to remove the grains, and dried. The seeds are then stored in a clean, dry, and cool place until the planting season.
Before planting, the seeds are soaked in water for 24 to 48 hours to break their dormancy. The seeds are then sown in prepared seedbeds or directly to the field at a depth of 2 to 3 cm, depending on the soil type. Adequate soil moisture is required for the seeds to germinate and for subsequent growth.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegatative propagation is an alternative method of propagating Triticum polonicum L. subsp. abyssinicum (Steud.) Vav. This method involves taking cuttings from the mature plants and planting them directly in the field or in a nursery. The cuttings should be taken from healthy plants, and only the upright stems should be selected.
Before planting, the cuttings' lower leaves are removed and planted in shallow trenches made in prepared seedbeds or directly in the field. The trenches should be covered with soil and kept moist until the cuttings have established roots. This method is more labor-intensive and requires higher inputs compared to seed propagation, but it can be used to propagate high-yielding genotypes and overcome the problems associated with seed storage and availability.
Disease Management
Triticum polonicum L. subsp. abyssinicum (Steud.) Vav. is susceptible to several diseases that can cause significant yield losses. Here are some common diseases and suggestions for their management:
- Leaf rust: Leaf rust is a fungal disease that can appear as small, yellowish-orange pustules on the leaves. This disease can be prevented by planting resistant varieties, avoiding high plant densities, and applying fungicides when necessary.
- Stem rust: Stem rust is a dangerous fungal disease that can destroy entire crops of wheat. This disease can be prevented by planting resistant varieties, avoiding high plant densities, and applying fungicides when necessary.
- Fusarium head blight: Fusarium head blight is a fungal disease that can cause significant yield losses. This disease can be prevented by planting resistant varieties, reducing crop residue, and applying fungicides when necessary.
Pest Management
Triticum polonicum L. subsp. abyssinicum (Steud.) Vav. can also be affected by various pests. Here are some common pests and suggestions for their management:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can be found in clusters on the leaves and stems. These pests can be controlled by using insecticides, introducing natural predators, and maintaining proper plant nutrition.
- Armyworms: Armyworms are caterpillars that can cause significant damage to the leaves and stems of the plants. These pests can be controlled by using insecticides, introducing natural predators, and handpicking affected plants.
- Hessian fly: Hessian flies are small insects that can damage the stem and roots of the plants during the larval stage. These pests can be controlled by planting resistant varieties and applying insecticides when necessary.
