Overview
Vigna vexillata (L.) A.Rich. var. angustifolia (Schumach. & Thonn.) Baker is a plant species belonging to the family Fabaceae. This plant species is commonly known as the wild cowpea or climbing cowpea, and is found in several countries in tropical Africa. It is a legume that is closely related to the cultivated cowpea (Vigna unguiculata).
Appearance
The wild cowpea is a climbing plant that can grow up to 3 meters long. Its leaves are trifoliate and are oval in shape, and the flowers are pale purple in color. The pods of the wild cowpea look like the pods of the cultivated cowpea, but they are usually smaller and have a harder outer shell. The seeds of the wild cowpea are also smaller in size compared to the cultivated cowpea.
Uses
The wild cowpea is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as stomachache, diarrhea, and malaria. It is also used as a food source for both humans and livestock. The seeds are cooked or roasted and consumed as a snack, while the leaves are used as a vegetable. In addition, the wild cowpea is also used as a cover crop to improve soil fertility and prevent erosion.
Cultivation
The wild cowpea is a hardy plant that grows well in various soil types and can tolerate drought. It is also resistant to pests and diseases. The plant can be propagated through seeds, which are usually sown directly in the field. The wild cowpea is usually intercropped with other crops such as maize, sorghum, and cassava. It is a versatile plant that can provide several benefits to farmers, including food, medicine, and soil improvement.
Growth Conditions for Vigna vexillata (L.) A.Rich. var. angustifolia (Schumach. & Thonn.) Baker
Vigna vexillata (L.) A.Rich. var. angustifolia (Schumach. & Thonn.) Baker, also known as the creeping vigna or cowpea, is a tropical legume species that is commonly found in Africa. It is a vigorous grower that can reach a height of up to 2 meters and is adapted to a range of soil types. Here are some important growth conditions for this plant:
Light Conditions
Vigna vexillata requires full sunlight to grow and develop properly. Although it can tolerate some shade, it grows best in direct sunlight. As a result, it is recommended to plant this species in an area with unobstructed sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Being a tropical plant, Vigna vexillata thrives in warm temperatures. It prefers temperatures in the range of 25-35°C (77-95°F). However, it can tolerate temperatures up to 40°C (104°F) as well as occasional light frost. It is important to ensure that the temperature remains within the optimal range throughout the growth period.
Soil Requirements
Vigna vexillata is adaptable to different soil types but prefers well-drained sandy or loamy soils with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. The soil should be free from high levels of salts, which can damage the roots. It is recommended to incorporate organic matter such as compost or manure into the soil before planting to improve its fertility. In addition, this plant species can tolerate a range of soil moisture conditions, but it does not grow well in waterlogged soils.
Cultivation
Vigna vexillata (L.) A.Rich. var. angustifolia (Schumach. & Thonn.) Baker, commonly known as the creeping vigna, is a tropical plant that prefers warm weather and moist, well-draining soil. This plant can be grown in both garden beds and containers.
The best time to plant Vigna vexillata is in the spring, after the last frost. The plant requires partial to full sun exposure to thrive. In areas with excessively hot summer temperatures, the plant is likely to benefit from some afternoon shade.
Watering Needs
Vigna vexillata requires consistent moisture throughout its growing season. Water the plant frequently, but make sure that the soil is allowed to dry slightly before watering again. The amount of water required will vary depending on the weather and temperature, but you should aim to water the plant once every two to three days. Be sure not to overwater the plant, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Vigna vexillata is a heavy feeder and requires regular fertilization to produce a bountiful harvest. Use a balanced fertilizer to boost the plant's growth and aid in the formation of healthy flowers and fruit. Apply fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
You can also opt for organic fertilizers like compost and well-rotted manure, which will not only provide nutrients but will also improve the soil structure.
Pruning
Regular pruning helps promote bushy and vigorous growth in Vigna vexillata. Prune the plant after the first harvest and trim off any dead or diseased branches. Cutting back the plant will also encourage the development of new shoots, which will lead to more flowers and pods.
For training the plant to grow on supports, pinch off the growing tips of the vine when it has reached the top of the support. This will encourage the plant to grow laterally, leading to more surface area for pod production.
Propagation of Vigna vexillata (L.) A.Rich. var. angustifolia (Schumach. & Thonn.) Baker
Vigna vexillata (L.) A.Rich. var. angustifolia (Schumach. & Thonn.) Baker, commonly referred to as the creeping vigna or cow pea, can be propagated either through seeds or cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of Vigna vexillata (L.) A.Rich. var. angustifolia (Schumach. & Thonn.) Baker can be sown directly on the soil. However, prior to sowing, the seeds should be soaked in water for a few hours to expedite the germination process. Planting should be done during the rainy season when there is adequate moisture in the soil.
The seeds should be sown at a depth of about 2 cm. Germination usually takes about 7-14 days. Care should be taken to protect the young seedlings from pests and diseases. Thinning should be done after the seedlings are about 15 cm tall, leaving a spacing of about 45 cm between plants.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation of Vigna vexillata (L.) A.Rich. var. angustifolia (Schumach. & Thonn.) Baker can also be done using stem cuttings. First, mature stems that have hardened off should be cut into pieces that are about 30 cm in length.
The cuttings should then be planted into the soil at a depth of about 10 cm. Care should be taken to ensure that the soil is moist. The cuttings usually root within 2-3 weeks. Once the cuttings have formed roots, they can be transplanted to their final growing location, with spacing similar to that of seedlings.
Disease Management
Vigna vexillata (L.) A.Rich. var. angustifolia (Schumach. & Thonn.) Baker is susceptible to several diseases. The most common diseases that affect this plant are:
- Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that causes brown spots with dark borders on the leaves. To manage this disease, infected plant parts should be removed and destroyed. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of the disease.
- Mosaic Virus: This viral disease causes yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. There is no cure for this disease, so infected plants should be removed and destroyed.
- Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery substance on the leaves. To manage this disease, cultural practices such as increasing air circulation and reducing moisture can be used. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Aside from diseases, Vigna vexillata (L.) A.Rich. var. angustifolia (Schumach. & Thonn.) Baker is also susceptible to pest infestations. The most common pests that affect this plant are:
- Aphids: These small insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause wilting and yellowing of the leaves. To manage this pest, water can be sprayed on the plant to dislodge the aphids, and insecticidal soap can be used to kill them.
- Mites: These tiny pests feed on the underside of the leaves and can cause yellowing and distortion. To manage this pest, cultural practices such as removing infested leaves and reducing moisture can be applied. Insecticides can also be used to control the spread of the pest.
- Cutworms: These larvae feed on the stems of the plant and can cause wilting and stunted growth. To manage this pest, physical barriers such as collars around the base of the plant can be used. Insecticides can also be used to control the spread of the pest.
Regular monitoring and proper management of diseases and pests can help ensure the healthy growth of Vigna vexillata (L.) A.Rich. var. angustifolia (Schumach. & Thonn.) Baker.
