Overview
Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. subsp. baoulensis (A.Chev.) Pasquet is a subspecies of the Vigna unguiculata species. It is a plant commonly grown for its beans, which are consumed around the world.
Origin
The plant is believed to have originated from West Africa, where it is commonly grown and used in traditional dishes. It is now grown in many warm regions around the world including South America, Asia, and Africa.
Common Names
The plant is known by various common names including cowpea, southern pea, black-eyed pea, china bean, and niébé in West Africa.
Uses
The seeds of the plant are commonly used in various dishes including soups, stews, and salads. They are high in protein and are a good source of essential nutrients such as iron, calcium, and vitamins B and C. In addition, the leaves of the plant are also edible and are used in African cuisine for their flavor and nutritional value. The plant is also grown as a forage crop, providing animal feed.
Appearance
The Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. subsp. baoulensis (A.Chev.) Pasquet plant is an annual, herbaceous vine that grows up to 3 meters long. The leaves are trifoliate with leaflets that are ovate or oblong in shape. The flowers are small, white or cream-colored, and are borne in racemes. The pods are long and slender, about 15-30cm in length, and contain several seeds. The seeds are usually green when young but turn tan or black at maturity, with a small black spot on one end, which gives them the name "black-eyed pea".
Light Requirements
Vigna unguiculata subsp. baoulensis is a sun-loving plant that requires full exposure to sunlight to grow and develop properly. It cannot survive in shady or partially shaded areas. Therefore, it should be grown in an open field or a well-lit area.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it grows best in warm temperatures between 25-35°C (77-95°F). The plant cannot tolerate frost or cold temperatures below 10°C (50°F). Thus, it should be grown in regions where the temperature does not fall below this minimum level.
Soil Requirements
Vigna unguiculata subsp. baoulensis prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant grows best in sandy loam soils that are slightly acidic, with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.5. The soil should also be deep enough to allow for root development and proper nutrient uptake. It is essential to maintain soil moisture levels since the plant cannot tolerate drought conditions.
Cultivation methods
Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. subsp. baoulensis (A.Chev.) Pasquet is a drought-resistant plant that can be grown in tropical and subtropical regions. It is usually planted in well-draining, sandy soils that are rich in organic matter. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil or transplanted from seedlings. The plant prefers full sun exposure and grows well in areas with temperatures between 20°C-35°C.
Watering needs
Being a drought-resistant plant, Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. subsp. baoulensis (A.Chev.) Pasquet requires minimal watering. The plant can survive long periods of drought but requires moderate watering during the growth phase. Thus, watering should be done once a week in areas with adequate rainfall and twice a week in dry regions. Avoid over-watering, as it may be detrimental to the plant's growth and development.
Fertilization
Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. subsp. baoulensis (A.Chev.) Pasquet requires a well-balanced fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The plant responds well to organic fertilizers such as compost, manure, and bone meal. Fertilization should be done during the growth phase, with the appropriate amount applied based on the soil composition and the plant's growth stage.
Pruning
Pruning is not mandatory for Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. subsp. baoulensis (A.Chev.) Pasquet. However, it can help in maintaining the plant's desired shape, controlling its growth, and increasing its yield. The plant can be pruned during the growth phase by removing dead or diseased branches, cutting back overgrown branches, and shaping the plant to increase its productivity.
Propagation Methods for Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. subsp. baoulensis (A.Chev.) Pasquet
Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. subsp. baoulensis (A.Chev.) Pasquet, commonly known as cowpea, is propagated by seeds.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. subsp. baoulensis (A.Chev.) Pasquet can be directly sowed into the soil or transplanted into the field. The ideal time for sowing the seeds is during the onset of the rainy season. The soil should be well-drained and fertile. The seeds should be sowed at a depth of 2-5 cm with a spacing of 30-60 cm between the rows and 10-15 cm between the plants.
Before sowing, the seeds should be treated with a fungicide to prevent any infections. In addition, the seeds should be soaked in water for 8-12 hours prior to sowing to facilitate germination. The seeds usually germinate within 5-10 days.
After the seeds have germinated and the seedlings have grown to a height of 15-20 cm, they can be transplanted into the field. During transplantation, care should be taken not to damage the roots. The soil should be well-watered after transplantation to facilitate growth.
In conclusion, Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. subsp. baoulensis (A.Chev.) Pasquet can be propagated by seed. The seeds can be sowed directly into the soil or transplanted into the field.
Disease Management
Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. subsp. baoulensis (A.Chev.) Pasquet is susceptible to various diseases that can lead to yield losses. These diseases include:
- Anthracnose: this is caused by the fungus Colletotrichum destructivum. It can result in the wilting and death of the plant. To manage this disease, it is essential to plant resistant cultivars and ensure proper drainage to minimize soil moisture.
- Mosaic Viruses: this disease causes yellowing and mottling of leaves, resulting in stunted growth and reduction in yield. The virus is spread through insects, particularly aphids. To control the virus, it is essential to control the vector population and grow resistant cultivars.
- Pythium Root Rot: this disease is caused by the fungus Pythium species. The fungus attacks the roots, leading to wilting and eventual death of the plant. It thrives in poorly drained soils and waterlogged conditions. To manage this disease, ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering the plants.
Pest Management
There are various pests that affect Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. subsp. baoulensis (A.Chev.) Pasquet. These pests cause direct damage to the plant, leading to yield losses. Some of the common pests include:
- Aphids: these pests suck the sap from the plants, leading to stunted growth and distortion of leaves. They also transmit viruses from one plant to another. To manage aphids, apply insecticides and encourage the population of natural enemies such as ladybugs and lacewings.
- Thrips: these pests feed on the leaves, causing a silvery appearance and distortion. They also transmit viruses to the plant. To control thrips, apply insecticides, prune and remove affected leaves, and cultivate plants that encourage the population of natural enemies such as minute pirate bugs.
- Whiteflies: these pests are sap-sucking insects that weaken the plant, leading to stunted growth and reduced yields. They also produce honeydew that promotes the growth of sooty mold. To manage whiteflies, apply insecticides and encourage the population of natural enemies such as ladybugs and lacewings.
