Introduction: The importance of veneer culture
the veneers, known scientifically as Unguiculata vine Popularly known as cowpeas, black-eyed peas, and Chinese beans, among many other names depending on the region, they are a legume of African origin with over six millennia of agricultural history. Their adaptation to different climates, drought resistance, and versatility make them an attractive option for both domestic agriculture and sustainable commercial farming.
In addition to its culinary potential A forage crop, the scallop stands out for being an abundant source of protein, fiber, and essential minerals, making it relevant for human and animal nutrition. Throughout this guide, we will detail the key steps and considerations for successful cultivation, from land preparation to harvesting and preservation, integrating best practices and updated recommendations.
Origin, botanical characteristics and varieties
The veneer is an annual herbaceous plant A climbing or semi-creeping plant, it's ideal for warm climates and well-drained environments. It has leaves composed of three oval leaflets, asymmetrical white or purple flowers, and pods containing between 3 and 12 seeds, each with a characteristic black spot in the center. It can reach heights of up to 1,5 meters if provided with a climbing support.
The origin of the pea is in the arid, sandy areas of the African Sahel, and it is one of the oldest food crops in the region. Its evolution and adaptation have allowed it to spread throughout the Americas, Asia, and Europe, integrating it into mixed and intercropped farming systems with cereals such as sorghum, corn, and millet. This traditional association takes advantage of the atmospheric nitrogen fixation for the veneer and the protein and nutritional benefit of the cereal-legume combination.
The varieties The available varieties have short (60 to 90 days) or medium-length growing cycles, which allows for production optimization based on water availability and management (dry or irrigated). There are varieties adapted to different soil and climate conditions, including those of American, African, and Asian origin, as well as local ecotypes that are particularly interesting for experimentation and adaptability.
Uses and benefits of veneer
The veneer is consumed in different ways, highlighting:
- The tender leaves, used as a cooked vegetable, are an alternative to spinach in many African and Asian cultures.
- The green pods, similar to green beans, are used fresh in cooking.
- Fresh grain, which can be eaten as a legume or frozen.
- The dried grain, the star of stews, soups, rice dishes, and typical regional dishes.
- Green, dry forage used in animal feed thanks to its high nutritional value, similar to that of alfalfa.
- Cover crop and soil improvement, given its nitrogen fixation and organic matter aggregation capabilities.
In gastronomyThe black bean is prized for its fine texture after cooking and its faster cooking time compared to other beans. It adapts to traditional and fusion recipes, providing nutritional value and variety to the diet.
The market niche The veneer is growing in popularity among consumers interested in organic products, soy alternatives, and healthy eating. Its versatility and durability position it as a relevant option for family farming and sustainable farms.
Ideal agroclimatic conditions
Carilla is best grown in warm, sunny environments., being drought-resistant thanks to its deep, fascicular root system. While the FAO recommends rainfall above 700 mm to maximize yield, this crop can survive and produce grain with rainfall as low as 200 mm per year, depending on the genotype selected.
The crop requires temperatures above 15°C for optimal germination and growth, and is very sensitive to low temperatures and frost. Therefore, it is recommended to sow after the risk of late frosts has passed, preferably in late spring or early summer, depending on the region.
The veneer adapts well to acidic soils, loose soils with good aeration and drainage, although it also thrives in slightly basic or neutral soils. The presence of organic matter and a loose structure facilitate root development and nutrient absorption.
Land preparation and planting
soil preparation It is essential for the success of the crop. Thorough tilling is recommended to allow for good aeration and the removal of stones, weeds, and debris from previous crops. A prior soil analysis facilitates the adjustment of acidity and the incorporation of essential nutrients such as phosphorus and potassium.
The adition of organic material, such as compost or well-rotted manure, improves soil structure and microbial life. Avoiding waterlogging and compaction is key, as the veneer does not tolerate heavy or poorly drained soils.
- Planting systems: It can be sown in a trickle, in rows, in single-seed, or direct sowing. Sowing density varies according to the variety's size: for creeping or cover varieties, rows of 0,8–1 m are spaced; for upright varieties, distances of 30–60 cm are spaced between rows and 5–8 cm are spaced between plants.
- Intercropping: It is recommended to combine the carilla with cereals such as millet, sorghum or sunflower, taking advantage of the shading and nitrogen fixation to improve the overall yield (increased LER).
- Seeding dose: It varies from 20 to 50 kg/ha depending on the system and the purpose (grain or forage). In dryland systems and short-cycle varieties, the dosage should be adjusted to enhance ground coverage.
The seed should be planted at a depth of 3 to 5 cm, ensuring contact with moist soil, which promotes germination and uniform emergence. In cold soils, delaying sowing prevents emergence problems.
Irrigation management and water needs
Irrigation It is one of the most important aspects for optimal development of the veneer, especially in dry environments or with irregular rainfall. The crop tolerates periods of drought, but reaches its full productive potential with regular irrigation, especially during flowering and pod filling.
- In dryland systems, monitoring soil moisture allows for adjusting support irrigation at critical times.
- In irrigation, drip or sprinkler irrigation helps reduce the risk of disease and improves water use efficiency.
- It is essential to avoid waterlogging, especially during germination and flowering, periods when excess water can cause seed rot and flower failure.
The soil should be kept slightly moist, without excess, adapting the irrigation frequency to the climatic conditions and the stage of crop development.
Fertilization and nutritional management
The veneer is capable of fixing atmospheric nitrogen thanks to its association with bacteria of the genus Bradyrhizobium, so it doesn't require high nitrogen inputs. However, a base fertilization with phosphorus and potassium is essential to stimulate good root development, flowering, and pod formation.
- PhosphateEssential for crop establishment. Carilla responds well to fertilization with superphosphate or phosphate rock.
- Potassium: It improves drought resistance and grain filling, so it is recommended according to previous analysis.
- Organic material: Compost application improves biological activity and provides essential micronutrients.
- In poor soils or with no history of legumes, seed inoculation with strains of Bradyrhizobium specific, although most soils already have suitable flora.
