Overview
Tropaeolum tuberosum Ruiz & Pavon is a plant species that belongs to the Tropaeolaceae family. It is a perennial climbing plant that is usually grown for its edible tubers. This plant is native to the Andean region of South America, especially Peru, Bolivia, and Chile.Common Names
The Tropaeolum tuberosum is commonly referred to as "mashua" or "isano" in the Andean region. It is also known as "Andean nasturtium" or "mashwa" in other parts of the world.Appearance
The Tropaeolum tuberosum grows up to two meters in height and has elongated stems that twine clockwise around other plants or support. Its leaves are bright green, circular to shield-shaped, with long petioles. It produces yellow, orange, or red flowers that are 15-20 mm wide. The mashua tubers are about the size of a golf ball, with a yellow, red, or purple skin and a knobby surface.Uses
The mashua tubers are used as a food source in the Andean region. They are rich in carbohydrates, vitamin C, and protein. The tubers are usually boiled and then served as a side dish, fried as chips, or mashed. They have a nutty, sweet flavor with a slightly grainy texture. Apart from its use as a food source, the Tropaeolum tuberosum is also used for medicinal purposes. It has anti-inflammatory properties and is used to treat rheumatism and urinary infections. The leaves are used to treat wounds and skin problems. The plant has also been used as a natural insecticide and fertilizer.Light Requirements
Tropaeolum tuberosum grows best in full sunlight exposure. Partial shade may be tolerated, but it can reduce the plant's vigor and overall yield. The plant requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive effectively. Inadequate sunlight can lead to stunted growth and poor tuber development.
Temperature Range
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Tropaeolum tuberosum is between 15 to 20 degrees Celsius. The plant can tolerate a minimum temperature of 10 degrees Celsius and a maximum temperature of 25 degrees Celsius. Temperatures higher than 25 degrees Celsius can result in reduced tuber formation, while cooler temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius can cause the plant to go dormant and eventually die.
Soil Requirements
Tropaeolum tuberosum prefers well-draining, loamy to sandy soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Soil that is too heavy or compacted can cause poor tuber development, while excessively acidic or alkaline soils can lead to stunted growth and reduced yields. The soil should also be rich in organic matter, which helps improve soil structure and water retention capacity.
Additionally, the plant requires adequate watering during its growing period. Overwatering can lead to root rot and fungal diseases, while underwatering can cause stress and reduced yields. Mulching the soil can also help conserve moisture and suppress weed growth around the plant.
Cultivation methods
Tropaeolum tuberosum, commonly known as mashua, is a root crop that is easy to grow in a variety of soil types. It can grow in both full sun and partial shade, but partial shade is preferred in hotter climates. Mashua can be propagated through seeds or tubers. If growing from seeds, plant them in well-draining soil beds or pots, and keep the soil moist until the seedlings emerge.
If propagating from tubers, plant them in early spring, making sure the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter. Place the tubers around 10cm deep and keep them moist. As the plant grows, ensure that it has enough space to produce tubers by thinning them out, spacing them around 50cm apart.
Watering needs
Mashua requires consistent moisture, and the soil should never be allowed to dry out completely. However, overwatering could lead to root rot, so it is essential to maintain a balance. Water the plants regularly, at least once a week, but more frequently during the hot weather to prevent the soil from becoming too dry.
Fertilization
Mashua grows best in rich, well-draining soil that is high in organic matter. Fertilize the plants regularly, incorporating organic manure or compost into the soil before planting. Additionally, during the growing period, you can apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks to promote healthy growth.
Pruning
Pruning is not usually necessary for mashua, but you can remove damaged, diseased, or yellowing leaves to promote healthy growth. If the plants are growing too large, you can trim some of the foliage to maintain their size and shape, but be careful not to damage the main stem.
Propagation of Tropaeolum tuberosum Ruiz & Pavon
Tropaeolum tuberosum, commonly known as mashua, is a perennial root vegetable crop cultivated in the Andean region. The plants are propagated both sexually and asexually to produce new plants.
Sexual propagation
T. tuberosum is propagated by seeds obtained from mature, healthy and fully formed pods. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil mixed with organic matter in the early spring. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and watered regularly. Germination takes about two to three weeks, and once the seedlings have developed true leaves, they can be transplanted to their permanent positions.
Asexual propagation
The plant can be propagated asexually by cuttings, which can be taken from the actively growing stems of mature plants, preferably in spring or early summer. The cuttings should be about 6 inches long and should be taken from the base of stems that have at least two leaves. The leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in a rooting hormone before being planted in a pot filled with well-draining soil. The pot should be kept in a shaded place and watered every alternate day until new growth appears, typically in two to three weeks.
Another asexual propagation method used for T. tuberosum is tuber division. The plant develops tubers under the soil, which can be dug up before the onset of the next growing season. The tubers should be cleaned and disinfected before being divided into sections, each containing a bud or an eye. The sections should be planted directly in the soil, and regularly watered until new shoots and roots appear.
Disease and Pest Management for Tropaeolum Tuberosum Ruiz & Pavon
Tropaeolum tuberosum Ruiz & Pavon, also known as the mashua or Andean nasturtium, is susceptible to some pests and diseases that can reduce crop yield and quality. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases that affect this plant:
Pests
Aphids: These are tiny insect pests that suck sap from the leaves, causing wilting and distortion. Aphids can transmit viruses that cause yellowing and stunting of the plant. To control aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil sprays. You can also introduce natural predators like ladybirds or lacewings to the crop.
Whiteflies: These are tiny, moth-like pests that feed on the underside of leaves. Their feeding can cause yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth. You can get rid of whiteflies by using yellow sticky traps or applying insecticidal soap or neem oil sprays.
Cutworms: These are caterpillars that chew on the base of the plant, causing it to fall over. Cutworms can be controlled by placing collar or barrier around the base of the plant. You can also use biological control methods like introducing beneficial nematodes that feed on the cutworms.
Diseases
Clubroot: This is a soil-borne disease caused by a fungus that attacks the roots of the plant, causing them to swell and become deformed. Clubroot can be controlled by practicing crop rotation, by not planting crops in the same area for at least three years, and by improving soil drainage and fertility. Fungicides may also be effective.
Black rot: This is a bacterial disease that causes blackening of the stem and leaves, eventually leading to plant death. Black rot can be avoided by practicing good hygiene such as removing and destroying any infected plants and ensuring proper spacing and ventilation between plants. Fungicides may also be used.
Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that causes yellowing and browning of the leaves. The spots can coalesce and form a larger lesion that can cause defoliation. To control leaf spot, remove and destroy any infected leaves, and apply fungicides.
In conclusion, managing pests and disease in Tropaeolum tuberosum is essential to maintain a healthy plant that produces high-quality yield. By implementing the appropriate pest and disease management, you can increase the chances of having a successful and profitable crop.
