Background of Vigna vexillata (L.) A.Rich. var. ovata (E.Mey.) B.J.Pienaar
Vigna vexillata (L.) A.Rich. var. ovata (E.Mey.) B.J.Pienaar, also known as the wild cowpea, is a type of legume that belongs to the family Fabaceae. This plant is native to Africa, particularly in Sub-Saharan regions, and has been introduced to other parts of the world, including Asia, Australia and the Americas.
Common Names
The wild cowpea has various common names, including wild vigna, river bean, forest vigna, vaquita bean, and wild mung bean.
Uses
Vigna vexillata (L.) A.Rich. var. ovata (E.Mey.) B.J.Pienaar is an important plant for local communities in Sub-Saharan Africa. The plant is a rich source of dietary protein and has been used for centuries as a food crop. The leaves, pods, and seeds of the plant are edible and are commonly consumed cooked or raw. In some parts of Africa, the wild cowpea is used as a traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including diabetes, dysentery, and malaria. The plant is also used as a natural fertilizer and as animal feed.
General Appearance
The wild cowpea is an annual or perennial herb that can grow up to 2.5 meters in length. The leaves are pinnately compound, with up to 15 leaflets that are ovate to elliptic in shape. The flowers are either yellow or red and are borne on racemes that are 10-20 cm long. The fruit is a cylindrical or slightly curved pod that can be up to 20 cm long and contains up to 15 seeds. The seeds are ovoid or ellipsoid and are green or brown in color.
Light requirements
Vigna vexillata var. ovata prefers to grow in areas with full sunlight exposure. The plant must receive at least six hours of direct sunlight a day to promote healthy growth. Inadequate light conditions may cause the plant to be stunted or fail to produce fruits.
Temperature requirements
The plant thrives in warm weather conditions with an average temperature range of 20-30°C (68-86°F). The minimum temperature requirement for Vigna vexillata var. ovata is 15°C (59°F), whereas the maximum temperature requirement is 35°C (95°F). When temperatures fall below 15°C, the growth and development of the plant may be impaired.
Soil quality requirements
Vigna vexillata var. ovata thrives in free-draining sandy loam soil with adequate organic matter and nutrients. The soil must also be well-aerated to allow for proper root development. The pH level of the soil should range between 5.5-7.0. Excessive waterlogging or poor soil drainage may result in soil-borne diseases and root rot, affecting the overall health and growth of the plant.
Watering requirements
The plant should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, the plant requires an average of 30-50mm of water per week. Overwatering and underwatering may cause the leaves to wilt or turn yellow, reducing the plant's yield potential.
Fertilization requirements
Vigna vexillata var. ovata requires regular fertilization to maintain optimal growth and yield. The plant thrives with a balanced NPK fertilizer with a recommended ratio of 16:16:16. Application of fertilizer should be done after germination and at regular intervals throughout the growing season.
Cultivation methods
Vigna vexillata (L.) A.Rich. var. ovata (E.Mey.) B.J.Pienaar, commonly known as the creeping vigna, is a sub-tropical plant that thrives well in warm and humid conditions. It is easy to cultivate and can be grown both in pots and in the ground. The plant prefers a well-draining sandy loam soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. Sow the seeds in the spring or early summer in the prepared soil with a spacing of 12 to 15 inches between the plants, and 2 to 3 inches deep.
Watering needs
Vigna vexillata requires moderate watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while lack of water, especially during the flowering and pod setting stages, reduces the yield. Water the plants thoroughly, but avoid waterlogging the soil. Check the moisture levels in the soil frequently, especially during periods of high temperatures, and adjust the watering schedule accordingly.
Fertilization
It is recommended that a phosphorus-potassium-rich fertilizer be used during the flowering and pod setting stages of Vigna vexillata growth. Avoid using nitrogen-rich fertilizers as they promote vegetative growth and reduce the plant's flower and fruit production. Organic fertilizer can also be used to enrich the soil with nutrients. Fertilize the plants twice a month to maintain healthy growth and yield.
Pruning
Vigna vexillata is a trailing vine that requires structural support. It can be provided by growing them on trellises or stakes. During early growth, the plants may require training to encourage growth in the desired direction. Prune any damaged or diseased branches regularly to encourage healthy growth. Pinch off the growing tips to promote extra branching and higher yields. However, avoid excessive pruning as it may reduce the vine's vigor and yield.
Propagation of Vigna vexillata (L.) A.Rich. var. ovata (E.Mey.) B.J.Pienaar
Vigna vexillata (L.) A.Rich. var. ovata (E.Mey.) B.J.Pienaar, commonly known as wild cowpea, is a legume plant that mainly occurs in Africa, and is known to have potential as a food source and forage crop. Propagation of this plant can be done through various methods:
1. Seed propagation
Vigna vexillata can be propagated through seeds. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mixture and kept moist. Germination can take place within 5-10 days. Once the seedlings have grown to a height of about 10-15 cm, they can be transplanted to the desired location.
2. Vegetative propagation
This plant can be propagated vegetatively through stem cuttings. Make sure to use cuttings of about 10-15 cm in length, and ensure that there are a few leaves attached to the stem. The cutting can then be planted in a well-draining soil mixture and kept moist until roots have developed. Once roots have developed, the plant can be transplanted to the desired location.
3. Grafting
Grafting can also be used to propagate Vigna vexillata. This method involves joining a scion (a shoot of the desired plant variety) to a rootstock of a different plant. The scion will then grow onto the rootstock, resulting in a plant with desirable characteristics.
Overall, the propagation method used for Vigna vexillata (L.) A.Rich. var. ovata (E.Mey.) B.J.Pienaar will depend on the availability of the necessary resources, including seeds, cuttings, and rootstocks, as well as the desired outcome.
Disease and Pest Management for Vigna vexillata (L.) A.Rich. var. ovata (E.Mey.) B.J.Pienaar
Vigna vexillata (L.) A.Rich. var. ovata (E.Mey.) B.J.Pienaar is a hardy plant, but it can still suffer from a few diseases and pests. Proper disease and pest management can help to ensure a healthy and bountiful crop.
Common Pests
Some of the common pests that may affect Vigna vexillata (L.) A.Rich. var. ovata (E.Mey.) B.J.Pienaar include:
- Aphids: These tiny insects can suck the sap from the plant, leading to stunted growth and deformities. They also spread plant viruses.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars can chew through the leaves and stems of the plant, causing severe damage.
- Bean Beetles: These beetles feed on the leaves and flowers of the plant, leading to defoliation and severe crop loss.
To manage these pests, you can use insecticides or biocontrol agents. Encourage the presence of beneficial insects like ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps, which can help to control pest populations. You can also use sticky traps or row covers to exclude pests.
Common Diseases
Vigna vexillata (L.) A.Rich. var. ovata (E.Mey.) B.J.Pienaar can also suffer from a few diseases, including:
- Bacterial Blight: This disease causes yellowing and wilting of the leaves, stunted growth, and poor yields.
- Fusarium Wilt: This disease causes yellowing and wilting of the leaves, as well as brown streaks in the stem. The plant may eventually collapse.
- Root Rot: This disease causes wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth. The roots may become black and mushy.
To control these diseases, practice good sanitation. Remove and destroy infected plant debris. Avoid planting in poorly drained soils. Use fungicides when necessary. Planting resistant cultivars may also be effective.
