Origin
Vigna proboscidella Chiov. is a rare and unique plant species belonging to the legume family, Fabaceae. This plant is native to Ethiopia and particularly endemic to the Bale Mountains region.
Common Names
Vigna proboscidella Chiov. is commonly known as "protruding-pod cowpea" due to its distinguishable characteristic of having elongated and protruding pods. It is also known as "Bale Mountains cowpea" or "Bale Mountains Vigna."
Uses
This plant is historically and culturally significant to the people of the Bale Mountains region in Ethiopia. The plant is used as a source of food with the young pods and seeds consumed as vegetables. Additionally, the seeds are roasted and brewed into a coffee-like beverage known as "Moyeni" which is a local delicacy.
Vigna proboscidella Chiov. is highly resistant to pests and diseases and has high drought tolerance, making it an essential crop for small-scale farmers in the region.
General Appearance
The Vigna proboscidella Chiov. plant is a climbing, annual herb with a trailing habit that can grow up to three meters in length. Its leaves are trifoliate with oblong leaflets that are approximately 20 cm long. The flowers are yellow, and the fruits are elongated, measuring up to 30 cm long, and pointed at the tip.
The unique and distinguishing feature of Vigna proboscidella Chiov. is its long and protruding pods that can measure up to 1m in length. These pods are edible and contain several seeds that are used as a food source.
Light Requirements
Vigna proboscidella Chiov. is a tropical plant and requires adequate sunshine to thrive. It grows well under full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. Shade-grown plants might produce fewer flowers and lower yields.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires warm temperatures to grow and flower well. Optimum growth occurs at temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. However, it can tolerate slightly higher temperature ranges of up to 35°C. Low temperatures below 10°C can negatively affect the growth and development of the plant.
Soil Requirements
Well-drained and fertile soils are necessary for optimal growth and good yields. Vigna proboscidella Chiov. thrives in loamy to sandy soils with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. Soil should be kept moist at all times, but not waterlogged. Organic matter should be added to the soil to improve its structure, water-holding capacity, and nutrient content. The plant can tolerate some amount of soil salinity but is adversely affected by acidic soils.
Cultivation Methods
Vigna proboscidella Chiov. is a climbing plant that requires good support for proper growth. The plant thrives in well-drained soil with a neutral pH of 6.0-7.5. It prefers full sunlight and warm temperatures, with a minimum temperature of 18°C.
The best planting time for this plant is in the early spring or at the beginning of the rainy season as it requires moisture to germinate. The plant has deep roots, so it requires regular watering to ensure that the soil is consistently moist.
Watering Needs
As a plant that craves moisture, Vigna proboscidella Chiov. requires regular watering to maintain proper growth. It's essential to keep soil consistently moist, especially during periods of dry weather. Deep watering is necessary to ensure that the roots assimilate the water properly.
However, the plant should not be overwatered as this can lead to root rot. It's necessary to check the soil moisture level before watering the plant. If the soil feels dry up to the first inch, it's time to water the plant.
Fertilization
Fertilization is crucial to ensure that Vigna proboscidella Chiov. obtains all the nutrients it requires for proper growth. The use of organic fertilizers like compost, manure, or bone meal can help to ensure soil fertility.
Application of phosphorus and potassium-rich fertilizers encourages flowering and fruiting. However, It's essential to avoid high levels of nitrogen fertilizers as this can lead to heavy foliage at the expense of flowers and fruit production.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to ensure that the Vigna proboscidella Chiov. grows evenly and maintains its shape. Pruning should be done during the dormant season, and it's essential to remove all dead or damaged branches to encourage new growth.
Training and tying the runner stems of the Vigna proboscidella Chiov. as they grow help to prevent tangling, ensure proper growth and support, and create an attractive plant display.
Propagation of Vigna proboscidella Chiov.
Vigna proboscidella Chiov. is an annual plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. The plant is commonly known as the "elephant bean" due to its long, twisted pods. It is native to Tanzania but is now cultivated in many parts of Africa for its edible seeds and leaves. Propagation of this plant can be done using various methods.
Propagation by Seeds
The most common way to propagate Vigna proboscidella Chiov. is by using seeds. The seeds are usually sown directly in the field or in pots filled with well-draining soil. The best time to sow the seeds is during the rainy season. Before sowing, the seeds should be soaked in water for about 24 hours to facilitate germination. The seeds germinate within 7 to 10 days after sowing.
The plants should be spaced about 30-40 cm apart to allow enough space for their growth. The soil should be kept damp but not waterlogged during the growing season. After 2-3 months, the plants start producing pods which can be harvested after about 3-4 months.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Vigna proboscidella Chiov. can also be propagated using stem cuttings. To propagate the plants using this method, select healthy stems from the parent plant and cut them into pieces about 10-15 cm long. The bottom end of the stem cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and then planted in a well-draining soil mixture. The soil should be kept moist and the cuttings should be kept in a shaded area for about 2-3 weeks until they develop roots.
After the roots have developed, the cuttings can be transplanted into the field or a bigger pot. The stems should be spaced about 30-40 cm apart, and the soil should be kept damp during the growing season.
Propagation by Division
Vigna proboscidella Chiov. can also be propagated by dividing the parent plant. To do this, carefully dig up the parent plant and gently separate the roots into several sections. Each section should have a healthy stem and some roots attached to it. The sections should be placed in well-draining soil and kept moist until new growth appears. This method is best done during the cooler months of the year.
In conclusion, Vigna proboscidella Chiov. can be propagated by seeds, stem cuttings, and division. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, but all are effective ways to produce new plants. With proper care and attention, they can be grown successfully in a wide range of climatic conditions.
Disease and Pest Management for Vigna proboscidella Chiov.
Vigna proboscidella Chiov. is a legume plant that is native to sub-Saharan Africa. The plant is a promising alternative for agricultural systems in the region due to its high nutritional value and resistance to drought. However, Vigna proboscidella Chiov. is not immune to diseases and pests that might affect its growth and production. Effective management practices are important to sustain the growth and productivity of the plant.
Common Diseases of Vigna proboscidella Chiov.
One common disease that affects Vigna proboscidella Chiov. is anthracnose. It is caused by the fungus Colletotrichum lindemuthianum and can affect the leaves, stems, and pods of the plant. Symptoms include circular, sunken lesions with dark borders and light centers. The disease can lead to defoliation and reduced yield.
To manage anthracnose, it is recommended to plant disease-resistant varieties, rotate crops, and practice good sanitation. Infected plant debris should be removed and destroyed. Fungicide sprays can also be applied during the wet season to prevent the spread of the disease.
Common Pests of Vigna proboscidella Chiov.
Vigna proboscidella Chiov. is also susceptible to pest infestations. One pest that can affect the plant is the legume pod borer (Maruca vitrata). The larvae of the pod borer can cause damage to the flowers, pods, and seeds of the plant. Symptoms of infestation include holes in the pods and seeds, frass on the pods, and reduced yield.
To manage legume pod borers, it is recommended to use pest-resistant varieties, practice crop rotation, and practice good sanitation. Infested plant debris should be removed and destroyed. Pheromone traps can also be installed to reduce the population of the pests. In severe cases of infestation, insecticide sprays can also be applied.
Conclusion
In conclusion, effective disease and pest management practices are important to sustain the growth and productivity of Vigna proboscidella Chiov. Planting disease-resistant varieties, practicing good sanitation, and using insecticide and fungicide sprays when necessary can prevent the spread of diseases and pests and ensure a healthy harvest.
