Origin
Guizotia schimperi auct., commonly known as Nigerseed or Ramtil, is a member of the Asteraceae family and is originally from Ethiopia and India.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Nigerseed, Ramtil, Blackseed, Ingot or Nyjer. In Ethiopia, it is called "Noug" or "Noog".
Uses
Guizotia schimperi auct. is grown predominantly for its oil-rich seeds, which are used in a wide variety of food products. The seeds are also used as bird feed due to its high oil content. Nigerseed oil has a high nutritional value, and it is used in making soaps, paints and varnishes. Nigerseed is known for its medicinal properties; it can be used for the treatment of cough, fever, diarrhea, and anemia. Additionally, the leaves and seeds are used in many rural communities as a traditional treatment for various ailments.
General Appearance
The Guizotia schimperi auct. plant grows up to 5 feet tall, and it has a bushy structure with green leaves. The plant produces attractive yellow flowers that bloom in late summer and early fall. The seeds are small, black, and oval-shaped, measuring about 2mm in length. The fruits are dry and hard, and they split open when the plant is mature to release the seeds.
Light Requirements
Guizotia schimperi auct. thrives in full sunlight, making it an ideal crop for hot and dry climatic conditions. It requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day to grow and develop properly. The plant can also tolerate partial shade, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Guizotia schimperi auct. lies between 25 to 30°C. The plant does not tolerate frost or freezing temperatures, making it suitable for cultivation in tropical and subtropical regions. Extreme heat can be detrimental to plant growth, so temperatures above 35°C should be avoided.
Soil Requirements
Guizotia schimperi auct. grows best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant prefers slightly acidic soils with a pH range between 6.0 and 6.5 but can also tolerate mildly alkaline soils. The soil should be loose and friable, allowing for proper root development. It is important to avoid waterlogged soils, which can cause root rot and other diseases.
Cultivation Methods of Guizotia schimperi auct.
Guizotia schimperi auct., commonly known as noug, is a typical East African plant. It is drought resistant and can grow in a range of climatic conditions, mainly at altitudes of 1500 to 2800 meters above sea level. The plant grows well in areas with well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight.
Watering Needs of Guizotia schimperi auct.
The plant thrives in a dry climate and does not require much water except during germination and establishment period. It is vital to ensure that the plant is watered frequently during establishment to facilitate seed germination and establish a strong root system. Afterward, the plant can survive with just enough rainfall. However, in prolonged dry periods, watering should be scheduled to maintain the plant's growth and development.
Fertilization of Guizotia schimperi auct.
Guizotia schimperi auct. does not require much fertilizer. Still, it will grow better and produce more seeds if given annual applications of nitrogen-based fertilizer during the vegetative stage and at the onset of seed formation. A dose of about 60-80kg of nitrogen and 50kg of phosphorus per hectare is sufficient. However, it is essential to note that excessive use of nitrogen can result in excessive leaf development and low seed production.
Pruning of Guizotia schimperi auct.
Pruning Guizotia schimperi auct. is not necessary since the plant does not grow tall. However, it is essential to remove the dead and withered leaves from the plant to help in disease control and promote healthy growth. Additionally, the plant should be weeded regularly to reduce competition for nutrients and water. Hand weeding around the plant is the best method since herbicides can be harmful to the plant.
Propagation of Guizotia schimperi auct.
Guizotia schimperi auct., also known as Ethiopian niger, is a small, sturdy annual plant that is native to Ethiopia and other parts of East Africa. The plant produces small, black seeds which are rich in oil and are used in cooking, industrial applications and in traditional medicine. Propagation of Guizotia schimperi auct. can be done using seeds.
Propagation through seeds
Propagation of Guizotia schimperi auct. is best done through seeds. The seeds need to be collected from mature plants. The seeds are small, dark brown to black in color and can be stored for up to two years at room temperature in a cool and dry place. When planting the seeds, select a sunny, well-drained location with fertile soil. The seeds can be sowed directly in the soil or can be started indoors and transplanted later.
Sow the seeds a quarter-inch deep and cover with soil. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Germination typically takes 7-14 days. Once the seedlings appear and have developed two true leaves, thin them out to about 6 inches apart. This will allow for good air circulation, which will reduce the risk of disease.
The plant takes about 90-120 days to mature and will flower in the summer months. Once the flowers start to dry and turn brown, the seed pods will start to form. It is important to harvest the seeds at the right time, as they can scatter easily when fully ripe and can be lost.
Propagation of Guizotia schimperi auct. through seeds is easy and cost-effective. With proper care, the plant will produce a good yield of seeds that can be used for a variety of applications.
Disease and Pest Management for Guizotia Schimperi Auct.
Guizotia schimperi auct., commonly known as Ethiopian Niger or Noug, is a type of oilseed crop that is grown for its oil-rich seeds. Like any other crop, Guizotia schimperi auct. is susceptible to a range of diseases and pests that can cause significant damage to the plant. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that affect Guizotia schimperi auct. and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
1. Leaf Spotting
This is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant, causing dark, circular spots with yellow halos to appear. The disease can spread quickly, especially in wet conditions.
Management: Ensure proper soil drainage and avoid overhead watering. Remove and destroy infected plant material, and use fungicides as a last resort.
2. Root Rot
This is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to rot and eventually die. It is often caused by overwatering and poorly drained soils.
Management: Improve soil drainage and avoid overwatering. Avoid planting in soil that has previously been infected with root rot.
Common Pests
1. Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied pests that suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and distorted foliage.
Management: Regularly inspect plants and remove any aphids by hand or use a strong stream of water to dislodge them. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil if the infestation is severe.
2. Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the undersides of leaves, causing a stippled appearance and eventual yellowing and dropping of leaves.
Management: Regularly inspect plants and use a strong stream of water to dislodge spider mites. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil if the infestation is severe.
3. Thrips
Thrips are small, flying insects that feed on the plant's foliage, causing silvering and distortion of leaves and flower buds.
Management: Regularly inspect plants and remove any thrips by hand or use a strong stream of water to dislodge them. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil if the infestation is severe.
By following these disease and pest management practices, you can help protect your Guizotia schimperi auct. crop and ensure a healthy and productive harvest.
