Overview of Vigna radiata (L.) R.Wilczek var. sublobata (Roxb.) Verdc.
Vigna radiata (L.) R.Wilczek var. sublobata (Roxb.) Verdc. is a legume plant belonging to the family Fabaceae and is native to Southeast Asia, particularly India, where it is widely cultivated.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as mung bean, green gram, or golden gram. In India, it is also referred to as moong dal or simply moong.
Uses
The seeds of Vigna radiata are commonly used in food preparations in many parts of the world, particularly in Asian and African cuisines. The seeds can be sprouted and consumed raw or cooked, or can be ground into flour and used to make a variety of dishes including noodles, cakes, and bread. In Ayurvedic medicine, the seeds are used for their medicinal properties to improve digestion, treat inflammation, and regulate blood sugar levels.
The plant is also used as animal feed and as a cover crop to improve soil fertility and prevent soil erosion.
General Appearance
Vigna radiata is an annual herbaceous plant that grows up to 60 cm in height. Its leaves are alternate, trifoliate, and ovate. Its flowers are small and yellow and are borne in clusters. The plant bears pods that are 4-10 cm in length, narrow and cylindrical, and contain 10-15 seeds each. The seeds are small, oval-shaped, and vary in color from green to yellow to black, depending on the variety and maturity of the seed.
Light conditions
Vigna radiata var. sublobata grows best in full sunlight. The plant requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day. If grown in partial shade, its growth may be stunted, and it may not flower or produce seeds as well.
Temperature requirements
The plant needs a warm environment to grow successfully. It does well in temperatures ranging from 25-35°C but can tolerate temperatures around 15-40°C. Extreme cold or frost can damage the plant or kill it. Therefore, it thrives in warm and tropical areas.
Soil requirements
Vigna radiata var. sublobata does well in loose, well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH of around 6-7.5, neutral to slightly acidic. The plant is not tolerant of waterlogged soils but requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. It is susceptible to root rot and does not tolerate saline soils. Therefore, soil salinity should be avoided.
Cultivation methods
Vigna radiata (L.) R.Wilczek var. sublobata (Roxb.) Verdc. is commonly known as mung bean or green gram. It is a warm-season crop and grows well in tropical and subtropical climates. The plant requires a moderately fertile, well-drained soil with a pH range of 6-7.5. It needs at least 6-7 hours of direct sunlight per day and a warm temperature of 25-30°C for optimum growth.
Watering needs
It is essential to provide enough water to mung bean plants as they are sensitive to drought. The plant needs regular and consistent watering throughout its life cycle. It is recommended to water the plant once or twice a week; the frequency may vary depending on the weather conditions. Overwatering should be avoided as it may lead to root rot and other diseases.
Fertilization
Mung bean plants require proper fertilization for better growth and yield. Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are the essential nutrients required in moderate amounts. The plant can benefit from organic fertilizers such as compost and manure. Applying fertilizers before planting and side-dressing during the growing season can provide adequate nutrition to the plant. However, excess fertilizer application should be avoided as it may cause the plants to grow too fast and produce fewer flowers and pods.
Pruning
Pruning can be done to encourage branching and promote better growth of the plant. It is recommended to prune the plant when it is about 2-3 weeks old by cutting off the top of the plant. This helps in promoting branching and leads to better yield. Removing dead or diseased leaves and stems can also prevent the spread of diseases. However, excessive pruning should be avoided as it may stunt the growth of the plant.
Propagation of Vigna radiata var. sublobata
Vigna radiata var. sublobata, commonly known as the mung bean, is a popular legume that is widely cultivated for its edible seeds. The plant is also known for its ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen in its root system, thereby increasing soil fertility. Propagation of Vigna radiata var. sublobata can be done by various methods, including:
Seed propagation
Seeds are the most common method of propagation for Vigna radiata var. sublobata. The seeds should be sown early in the growing season when the soil has warmed up. The soil should be well-drained and moist, but not overly wet. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 2-4 cm, and the rows should be spaced at least 45 cm apart. Germination typically occurs within 7-10 days, depending on the temperature and moisture level. Seed propagation is relatively easy and inexpensive, making it a popular choice among farmers and gardeners alike.
Cutting propagation
Propagation through cuttings is not a common method for Vigna radiata var. sublobata, but it is possible. Cuttings should be taken from young, healthy plants in the early morning or late afternoon when the temperature is cooler. The cuttings should be about 10 cm long and should have at least two nodes. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and then planted in a well-draining potting mixture. The pot should be placed in a warm, humid area and kept well-watered. Roots should form within 2-3 weeks, and the new plants can be transplanted into the garden or field.
Division propagation
Propagation through division is another method that can be used for Vigna radiata var. sublobata. Division should be done in the early spring before new growth begins. The plant should be carefully lifted from the ground and the root system divided into sections. Each section should have at least one shoot and a healthy root system. The sections can be replanted in the garden or field, and should be watered well until they are established.
Overall, Vigna radiata var. sublobata is an easy plant to propagate. Seed propagation is the most common and easiest method, but cutting and division propagation can also be successful with proper care and attention.
Disease Management
Vigna radiata var. sublobata is susceptible to a range of diseases that can impact yield and quality. Some common diseases and their management strategies are listed below:
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot is caused by the fungus Cercospora canescens and is characterized by circular lesions on the leaves. To manage this disease, affected leaves should be removed and destroyed. Fungicide application may also be necessary, and crop rotation can help prevent future infections.
- Anthracnose: Anthracnose is caused by the fungus Colletotrichum lindemuthianum and is characterized by lesions on the stems, leaves, and pods. To manage this disease, crop rotation, resistant varieties, and fungicide application can be effective.
- Mosaic virus: Mosaic virus is caused by a range of viruses and is characterized by yellowing and mottling on the leaves. To manage this disease, prevent the transmission of the virus by controlling aphids and other vectors. Infected plants should be removed and destroyed.
- Rust: Rust is caused by the fungus Uromyces phaseoli and is characterized by orange-brown pustules on the leaves. To manage this disease, fungicide application may be necessary. Resistant varieties are also available.
Pest Management
Vigna radiata var. sublobata is also susceptible to a range of pests. Some common pests and their management strategies are listed below:
- Aphids: Aphids can cause stunted growth and yellow leaves. To manage this pest, spray affected plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Encouraging the presence of natural predators, such as ladybugs and lacewings, can also be effective.
- Mites: Mites can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves. To manage this pest, spray affected plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Encouraging the presence of natural predators, such as predatory mites, can also be effective.
- Cutworms: Cutworms can cut through the stems of young plants. To manage this pest, place collars made of paper or cardboard around the base of the plant. Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) and spinosad-containing insecticides can also be effective.
- Leafhoppers: Leafhoppers can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. To manage this pest, spray affected plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Encouraging the presence of natural predators, such as assassin bugs, can also be effective.
