Origin
Vigna oblongifolia A.Rich. var. parviflora (Baker) Verdc. is a plant species that belongs to the Fabaceae family and is native to Africa.
Common Names
This plant species is commonly known as the Small-flowered Cowpea, Dwarf Cowpea or Wild Gram. Its other vernacular names include Mwenji in Swahili and Karamoja in Uganda.
Uses
The small-flowered cowpea has both economic and health benefits. It is used as a food crop in some regions, especially in Nigeria. The leaves and young pods are consumed as a vegetable, while the seeds are consumed boiled or roasted. The plant's stems and leaves are also used to feed livestock. In some traditional medicine practices, the root and seed extracts are used to treat various ailments like diarrhoea, dysentery, and fever.
General Appearance
The small-flowered cowpea is a small, annual herb that grows up to 30 cm in height. Its leaves are compound, with three leaflets that are oval-shaped and about 2.5 cm long. The plant produces small, white or pink flowers that are approximately 1 cm in length. The fruits are elongated pods, usually between 4-10 cm long and contain 5-12 seeds. The seeds are small, approximately 0.5 cm long, and are brown in colour.
Growth Conditions of Vigna Oblongifolia A.Rich. var. Parviflora (Baker) Verdc.
Vigna oblongifolia A.Rich. var. parviflora (Baker) Verdc. is a subshrub that is widely grown in various regions of the world. It is known to be adaptable to many different growth conditions.
Light
Vigna oblongifolia A.Rich. var. parviflora (Baker) Verdc. typically grows in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate high temperatures and high light levels. However, partial shade is preferred in areas with extremely hot temperatures.
Temperature
The optimal temperature range for Vigna oblongifolia A.Rich. var. parviflora (Baker) Verdc. growth is between 25°C and 35°C. It can tolerate high temperatures up to 45°C and low temperatures down to 10°C. In areas with high temperatures, it is recommended to grow the plant under partial shade for better growth and yield.
Soil Requirements
Vigna oblongifolia A.Rich. var. parviflora (Baker) Verdc. prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The pH range for optimal growth is between 6.0 and 7.5. It can also tolerate soils with high salinity levels. It is recommended to apply organic fertilizers to improve the soil quality and to avoid using chemical fertilizers as they may negatively affect the plant's growth and yield.
Cultivation Methods
Vigna oblongifolia A.Rich. var. parviflora (Baker) Verdc. can be grown in a range of soil types, but it prefers sandy, loamy soil with good drainage. The ideal pH for the plant is slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.5). It is a hardy plant and can tolerate high temperatures and drought. The best way to cultivate it is to sow the seeds directly into the soil, either in rows or broadcasted.
Watering Needs
Vigna oblongifolia A.Rich. var. parviflora (Baker) Verdc. requires moderate watering. Overwatering or underwatering can cause damage to the plant. Water the plant when the topsoil feels dry to the touch. If the area experiences heavy rainfall, reduce watering frequency to avoid waterlogging.
Fertilization
The plant does not require excessive fertilization, but a light dose of fertilizer during the growth phase can enhance its performance. Use a balanced fertilizer containing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, and apply it once during the growth phase. Avoid applying fertilizers during the flowering phase.
Pruning
Vigna oblongifolia A.Rich. var. parviflora (Baker) Verdc. does not require heavy pruning. However, pruning can be done to shape the plant and promote branching. Cut back any dead or diseased branches as soon as they are noticed to prevent the spread of disease. Pruning can be done in the early spring before new growth appears.
Propagation of Vigna oblongifolia A.Rich. var. parviflora (Baker) Verdc.
Vigna oblongifolia A.Rich. var. parviflora (Baker) Verdc., also known as the small-flowered mung bean, is propagated by both vegetative and seed propagation methods. It is a creeping annual herb with trifoliate leaves and small yellowish flowers.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method for Vigna oblongifolia var. parviflora. Seeds are collected when mature pods turn brown or yellow and placed in a cool, dry place until planting.
The seeds can be planted directly into the ground or started indoors before transplanting. Prior to planting, it is beneficial to soak the seeds in water for several hours or overnight to soften the outer coating and promote germination.
The seeds should be placed in well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, and at a depth of approximately 2-3 cm. Water the seeds regularly and provide ample sunlight for optimal growth.
Vegetative Propagation
Vigna oblongifolia var. parviflora can also be propagated vegetatively through stem cuttings. A 15-20 cm long stem cutting is taken from the parent plant and planted in a rooting medium such as sand or vermiculite.
The cuttings should be kept in a warm and humid environment and watered regularly. Roots should begin to form within a few weeks, and the new plant can be transplanted into soil once they reach a sufficient size.
It is important to note that vegetative propagation can affect the genetic diversity of the plant and should only be done when necessary.
Disease and Pest Management for Vigna oblongifolia A.Rich. var. parviflora (Baker) Verdc.
Vigna oblongifolia A.Rich. var. parviflora (Baker) Verdc. is a resilient plant that can withstand harsh climatic conditions. However, it is still susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and productivity. Effective disease and pest management practices are crucial in ensuring the plant's health and productivity.
Common Diseases
Leaf blight is a common disease that affects Vigna oblongifolia A.Rich. var. parviflora. It is caused by a fungal pathogen called Phoma exigua. The disease is characterized by circular spots on the leaves, which eventually turn brown and drop. Powdery mildew is another fungal disease that affects the plant, characterized by a white powdery substance on the leaves and stems.
Rhizoctonia solani is a fungal pathogen that causes root rot in the plant. The disease attacks the roots, causing them to rot and turn brown. The infected plant exhibits stunted growth, wilting, and yellowing of the leaves. Pythium aphanidermatum is another fungal pathogen that causes similar symptoms.
Disease Management
Effective disease management involves the use of proper cultural practices and chemical control methods. Crop rotation is an essential cultural practice that helps in reducing the spread of pathogens and improves soil health. It is recommended to rotate the crop every two to three years.
Chemical control methods involve the use of fungicides, such as copper-based chemicals, to prevent fungal infections. It is important to use the correct dosage and frequency of application to prevent the development of resistance by the pathogens.
Common Pests
Several pests attack Vigna oblongifolia A.Rich. var. parviflora. The pod borer is a major pest that causes damage to the pods and seeds. The pest is characterized by the presence of holes on the pods and the presence of droppings on the pods and the surrounding area.
The plant is also susceptible to aphid infestations, which can cause leaf curling and stunted plant growth. The aphids extract the sap from the leaves, causing them to wilt and eventually fall off. Other pests that affect the plant include thrips and spider mites.
Pest Management
Pest management involves the use of proper cultural practices and chemical control methods. Proper field hygiene, such as removing plant debris and weeds, reduces the chances of pest infestations. Early detection of pests is crucial in preventing their spread. The use of pheromone traps and sticky traps is effective in monitoring the pest population.
Chemical control methods involve the use of insecticides, such as pyrethroids and neonicotinoids. It is essential to follow the recommended dosage and frequency of application to prevent the development of resistance by the pests.
In conclusion, effective disease and pest management practices are crucial in ensuring the health and productivity of Vigna oblongifolia A.Rich. var. parviflora. Proper cultural practices and chemical control methods can help in reducing the impact of diseases and pests on the plant.
