Overview
Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. var. dekindtiana, commonly known as Dekindt's cowpea, is a subspecies of the cowpea plant native to Africa. It belongs to the Fabaceae family and is an important food crop for both humans and animals.
Appearance
The Dekindt's cowpea plant is an annual, climbing vine that can reach up to 2 meters in length. The leaves are trifoliate and have toothed margins. The flowers are white to pale pink and are borne in clusters on axillary racemes. The pod is typically 10-20 cm long, and contains 10-15 seeds.
Origin and Distribution
Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. var. dekindtiana is mostly found in West and Central Africa, especially in the countries of Cameroon, Nigeria, and Ghana. It originated from the wilder subspecies Vigna unguiculata subsp. dekindtiana, which is found in the savannas of Central and East Africa. The plant has been domesticated for thousands of years and is now grown in many countries, including the United States, Brazil, and India.
Uses
Dekindt's cowpea is a vital source of protein and essential micronutrients and is a staple food in many African countries. It can be cooked and eaten as a vegetable or ground into flour to make a variety of dishes, including porridge, cakes, and soups. The plant is also used as animal feed, forage, green manure, and in soil improvement practices due to its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil. Furthermore, Dekindt's cowpea has medicinal properties, and some studies suggest that it has anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, and antioxidant effects.
Light Conditions
Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. var. dekindtiana requires full sun exposure for optimum growth and yield. The plant requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight each day. Inadequate light exposure can lead to stunted growth, reduced flowering, and lower yield.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires warm temperatures for growth; the optimal growth temperature range is between 24°C and 27°C (75°F to 80°F). Temperatures above 35°C (95°F) can inhibit plant growth and reduce yield. During the germination phase, a minimum soil temperature of 21°C (70°F) is required for successful growth.
Soil requirements
Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. var. dekindtiana grows well in well-drained soil types such as sandy loam or loamy soils. The soil pH should range between 6.0 and 7.5, which is slightly acidic to neutral. The plant requires a minimum soil depth of 15-20 cm, as it has a deep root system. Additionally, the soil should be rich in organic matter and nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium for optimal growth and yield.
Cultivation Methods
Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. var. dekindtiana is a warm-season crop that requires well-drained soils for optimal growth. It prefers sandy loam or clay soil with pH ranging from 6 to 7.5. This plant can be grown from seeds, and the seeds should be sown directly in the field after the last frost. The optimum temperature for seed germination is 20-30°C. It is best to prepare the soil by plowing or tilling to a depth of 20-25cm before planting.
Watering Needs
Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. var. dekindtiana requires moderate watering. It is important to maintain adequate moisture in the soil during the growing season. Overwatering may lead to root rot, so it is best to avoid waterlogging the soil. The frequency of watering may vary depending on the weather condition, but it is recommended to water the plant once a week during periods of drought.
Fertilization
Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. var. dekindtiana requires adequate nutrients to achieve optimal growth. The best approach is to carry out soil analysis to determine the nutrient needs of the plant. Before planting, it is advisable to incorporate organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure into the soil. Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are essential nutrients for this crop. A balanced fertilizer such as NPK 10:10:10 can be applied at the rate of 60kg/acre at the 4-leaf stage to support better growth and yield.
Pruning
Pruning is beneficial for Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. var. dekindtiana to promote bushier growth and increase yields. It is done to remove diseased, damaged, or dead branches. Pruning also helps to control the size and shape of the canopy, which can affect light and air penetration. It is advisable to prune the plant to half its height after trimming to encourage branching and to promote flowering. It's best to carry out pruning after harvesting.
Propagation of Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. var. dekindtiana
Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. var. dekindtiana, also known as Kunde, is a tropical legume crop that is predominantly grown in Africa. It is an excellent source of protein, and its seeds are used for making soups and stews. Propagation of this plant can be done both sexually and asexually.
Sexual Propagation
The most common method of sexual propagation of V. unguiculata var. dekindtiana is by seeds. The seeds can be planted directly in the field or can be raised in nurseries and then transplanted. Before planting, the seeds should be treated with a fungicide to prevent seed-borne disease. In addition, the seeds should be sown at a depth of 2-3 cm, and the spacing between the seeds should be 30-40 cm.
Asexual Propagation
Asexual propagation of V. unguiculata var. dekindtiana is done through stem cuttings. For raising stem cuttings, healthy and disease-free branches should be selected from the parent plant. The cuttings should be made from the softwood part of the stem, and they should be 10-15 cm long. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone before planting. The cuttings should be planted in a well-draining potting mix and should be kept in a warm and humid environment until they develop roots.
Disease and Pest Management for Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. var. dekindtiana
Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. var. dekindtiana, commonly known as cowpea, is susceptible to a number of diseases and pests that can impact its growth and yield. However, with proper management practices, it is possible to control these issues and ensure optimal plant health.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect cowpea plants is anthracnose, caused by the fungus Colletotrichum lindemuthianum. Symptoms include circular, sunken, and dark-colored lesions on the leaves, stems, and pods. The best way to manage anthracnose is to plant resistant varieties and ensure proper spacing between plants for good air circulation.
Another disease that affects cowpea plants is bacterial blight, caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris. Symptoms include water-soaked spots on leaves and pods that turn yellow and eventually brown. Management of bacterial blight involves planting certified disease-free seeds and avoiding overhead irrigation.
Common Pests
Cowpea plants are also susceptible to a number of insect pests, including aphids, bean beetles, and cowpea curculios. Aphids can be controlled through the use of insecticidal soap, while bean beetles can be managed through crop rotation and the use of natural predators like ladybugs. Cowpea curculios can be managed through the application of insecticide in the early stages of plant growth.
Another pest that can affect cowpea plants is nematodes. These are small, microscopic worms that attach themselves to the roots of the plant, causing stunted growth and reduced yield. Management of nematodes involves planting resistant varieties, crop rotation, and the use of nematicides.
Conclusion
Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. var. dekindtiana is a valuable crop that can be impacted by a variety of diseases and pests. However, through careful management practices, it is possible to control these issues and ensure a healthy, productive crop.
