Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. subsp. aduensis Pasquet
Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. subsp. aduensis Pasquet, commonly known as cowpea, is a leguminous crop native to Africa, but now widely cultivated in other parts of the world. It is a drought-tolerant and heat-resistant crop that can grow in a variety of soils.
Common Names
Cowpea is known by many names, depending on the region. In Africa, some common names include niébé in West Africa, niebe in Chad, kunde in Tanzania, and ubwicha in Rwanda. In the United States, it is often called black-eyed pea or southern pea.
Uses
Cowpea is an important source of inexpensive protein and other nutrients, especially in areas where there is a shortage of animal protein. It is commonly used in traditional African dishes such as akara, moimoi, and ewa agoyin. Cowpea is also used for animal feed and soil improvement. The leaves and young shoots are used as a vegetable, and the dried seeds can be ground into flour for use in baking or as a thickener for soups and stews.
General Appearance
The cowpea plant is an annual herb that can grow up to 2 meters tall. The leaves are pinnately compound, with 3 to 15 leaflets that are ovate to lanceolate in shape. The flowers are borne in clusters and can be white, pink, or lavender in color. The fruit is a pod that is typically 15 to 20 cm long and contains 10 to 15 seeds. The seeds are round to kidney-shaped and can be black, white, cream, or brown in color.
Light Requirements
Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. subsp. aduensis Pasquet grows best in full sun to partial shade. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day to produce optimal growth.
Temperature Requirements
This subspecies of Vigna unguiculata is native to West Africa, and it thrives in warm climates. The ideal temperature range is between 25 and 35°C (77-95°F). Plants may experience stress in temperatures outside of this range and may exhibit stunted growth or poor fruiting.
Soil Requirements
Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. subsp. aduensis Pasquet is well-adapted to low-fertility soils and can tolerate drought conditions. The ideal soil pH range for growth is between 5.5 and 7.5. The plant can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy loam, clay loam, and red earth. However, it is important that the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. subsp. aduensis Pasquet is a warm-season annual crop that requires full sun exposure and well-drained soil for cultivation. The ideal planting bed includes rich organic matter, which aids in the development of the root system. Sow the seeds 1 to 2 inches deep, with a spacing of at least 6 inches between plants. The best time to plant this crop is after the last frost date in your area.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. subsp. aduensis Pasquet are moderate. Overwatering can lead to root rot and fungal diseases, while inadequate watering can hinder the crop's growth. Water the plant deeply once a week, adjusting the frequency based on the weather conditions. Watering early in the morning or late in the evening is recommended, as it decreases evaporation and ensures proper uptake of water by the plant roots.
Fertilization
Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. subsp. aduensis Pasquet responds well to organic fertilizers, such as compost or manure, which can be applied before planting or as a top dressing during the growing season. Applying balanced N-P-K fertilizers at a rate of 50-75 lbs per acre and micronutrient supplements can help to boost the yield. It is important to avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduce the crop's maturity.
Pruning
Pruning is not typically required for Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. subsp. aduensis Pasquet, as the plant has a bushy growth habit and does not need to be trained. Removing diseased or damaged leaves and stems promptly can help to prevent the spread of diseases. The plant's pods should be harvested regularly when they are tender, as this helps to increase the plant's foliage production and encourages continual blooming of new pods.
Propagation of Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. subsp. aduensis Pasquet
Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. subsp. aduensis Pasquet, commonly known as cowpea, is propagated through various methods. The most common methods are:
Seed Propagation
The propagation of Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. subsp. aduensis Pasquet through seeds is the most common method. The seeds of this plant are sown directly in the field or in the nursery in rows. The ideal seed rate is 12-15 kg/ha, and the recommended spacing is 45 cm x 10 cm. Well-prepared soil is essential for good germination and seedling establishment.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings propagation is another method of propagating Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. subsp. aduensis Pasquet. Cuttings of 20-25 cm in length are taken from the mature plants. The cuttings are then dipped in a rooting hormone and planted in polybags or nursery beds containing well-prepared soil. The cuttings should be watered regularly to ensure proper rooting and establishment of the plant.
Tissue Culture Propagation
Tissue culture propagation is a modern method of propagating Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. subsp. aduensis Pasquet. This method involves the use of plant cells, tissues, or organs to produce new plants. It is a rapid method of producing a large number of uniform plants with desirable attributes. However, tissue culture requires specialized equipment and skills, and it is relatively expensive.
In conclusion, Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. subsp. aduensis Pasquet can be propagated through seed, cuttings, or tissue culture methods. The choice of method will depend on various factors, including availability of resources, scale of production, and desired attributes of the propagated plants.
Disease Management
Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. subsp. aduensis Pasquet is susceptible to a number of diseases mainly caused by fungi, bacteria, and viruses. The following are some common diseases and ways to manage them:
Anthracnose
Anthracnose is caused by the fungus Colletotrichum lindemuthianum. It causes the leaves to dry up and wilt. The pods may also get sunken lesions, turn brown, or rot. The best way to manage anthracnose is to plant resistant varieties. Spraying with fungicides may also help control the disease.
Root and Stem Rots
Root and stem rots are caused by various fungi, including Fusarium spp., Rhizoctonia spp., and Pythium spp. The disease can cause damping off, wilt, and root rot. To manage the disease, it is advisable to practice crop rotation, avoid planting in poorly drained soils, and apply fungicides.
Mosaic Virus
Mosaic virus is caused by a group of viruses that affect various crops, including Vigna unguiculata. The virus causes mottling and distortion of leaves, stunted growth, and lower yield. The best way to manage the virus is to plant resistance varieties. Infected plants should be removed and destroyed.
Pest Management
Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. subsp. aduensis Pasquet is also susceptible to pest damage. The following are some common pests and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the leaves. They can transmit viruses and cause yellowing, stunting, and distorted leaves. The best way to manage aphids is to prevent their infestation by regularly inspecting the crops. In severe cases, chemical control may be needed.
Cowpea Pod Borer
Cowpea pod borer is the larvae of the Helicoverpa armigera moth. The larvae feed on the pods, resulting in yield loss. The best way to manage the pest is to plant early so that the plants produce pods before the moths arrive. Insecticides can also be effective in controlling the moths.
Thrips
Thrips are tiny, winged insects that feed on the leaves, flowers, and fruits of the plant. They cause stippling, distortion, and premature loss of flowers and fruits. The best way to manage thrips is to remove and destroy the infested plant parts. Predatory thrips can also be used to control the pests. In severe cases, chemical control may be necessary.
