Potential of domesticating the underutilized multipurpose wild leafy vegetable, Sesamum alatum, under low input organic cropping systems
2022
Mbatha, KC | Mavengahama, S | Ntuli, NR
Sesamum alatum Thonn., of the Pedaliaceae family is rich in nutrients and is also used for medicinal purposes, but it is still collected from the wild. It thrives well in sandy soils which are known for low fertility and moisture content. Rural communities in KwaZulu-Natal usually keep cows, goats, poultry and sheep as their livestock, where they also source organic manure for subsistence farming. Animal manure improves both plant and soil properties. Application of animal manure also results in an increase in growth, yield and nutrient content of leafy vegetables such as Amaranthus, Abelmoschus, and Corchorus species. In India, Sesamum indicum, a domesticated relative of S. alatum, also had its vegetative, reproductive and nutrient properties improved with the application of poultry manure. A selection of organic manure(s) for S. alatum domestication is possible by reviewing the use of various domesticated animal manures to improve morpho-agronomic traits and nutrient content of leafy vegetables. Therefore, determining an agronomic protocol for this species in South Africa is a priority for future research.
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