Lupins (Lupinus spp.) can play an important role in conservation agriculture-based crop-pasture rotations. Most lupins are grown for their high-quality seed, which is used as a protein and energy concentrate in livestock feed rations.
Also commonly known as blue bonnets, and sometimes grown as ornamental plants, these mostly herbaceous perennial plants can be between 0,3m and 1,5m tall, with some growing up to 3m.
They have soft green to grey-green leaves which may be covered in silvery hairs. The leaf blades are usually divided into five to 28 leaflets.
The flowers, each of which is 1cm to 2cm long, are produced in dense or open whorls on an erect spike.
The species of lupins important for agricultural purposes are the yellow lupin (L. luteus), the white lupin (L. albus), also known as the Italian lupin, and the blue lupin (L. angustifolius).
Alkaloids in lupins determine how sweet or bitter the plant is. White lupins are sweet (tasty), and their seeds are used for animal feed. L. angustifolius is planted for grazing. Animals eat only the older leaves and avoid the growth points. This species establishes more readily than other legumes, write Dr Wayne Truter et al in their article on lupins for Grain SA.
Lupins prefer a slightly acidic and poorer soil. Like other legumes, lupines fix nitrogen (N) from the atmosphere into ammonia via a rhizobium-root nodule symbiosis, fertilising the soil for other plants. This makes them extremely valuable to the next crop planted in the land.
L. angustifolius is the most common species planted in the Western Cape, and does well in sandy soils.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Review: the Toyota Hilux 2.8GD-6 DC 4×4 GR-Sport III
The third iteration of the Hilux GR-Sport has finally achieved a sense of presence and style befitting its raceinspired branding. But is this the ultimate modern Hilux? Car Magazine takes a closer look.
Why maize prices soar in Kenya and Malawi but not Tanzania
Namhla Landani, an economist at the Centre for Competition, Regulation and Economic Development, University of Johannesburg, and Arthur Khomotso Mahuma, economist and researcher at the Centre for Competition, Regulation and Economic Development, University of Johannesburg, analyse the issue.
Wet carcass syndrome: a scourge in SA sheep farming
Wet carcass syndrome continues to take a huge financial toll on South African sheep farmers. Octavia Avesca Spandiel spoke to two experts about the ongoing genetic research aimed at addressing this issue.
Pollination innovation
Bee-Tech Group is transforming South African agriculture with pollination technologies that boost crop yields and enhance sustainability. Founder Michiel Bruggeman spoke to Octavia Avesca Spandiel.
The valuable addition that makes this farm tick
Owning the value chain provides farmers with far more control over their produce. However, it requires a fine balance between production and ensuring there is a strong and steady market. Lindi Botha visited Rosemary Hill to find out how this essential oil producer leverages hospitality to make the farm viable.
The benefits of recirculating aquaculture systems
A powerful set of attributes has established recirculating aquaculture systems as a cornerstone of global temperate fish farming, writes Leslie Ter Morshuizen, owner of Aquaculture Solutions.
Minister has big plans for emerging and commercial farmers
DA leader and Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen spoke to Glenneis Kriel about his priorities for his department over the next five years, including an increased focus on biosecurity.
New study aims to make wheat more disease resistant
A recent international study explains how bread wheat has helped to transform the ancient world on its path to becoming the iconic crop that today helps sustain a global population of eight billion.
Conservation farming and biodiversity boost soil health and sustainability
A recent academic event focused on research into the links between soil biodiversity, soil health and sustainable agriculture
What has led to the unparalleled rice shortage in Japan?
Japan is facing a rice shortage amid concerns about a potential 'megaquake', several typhoons and an annual week-long holiday, which has led to an increase in panic buying.