Description of Achillea borealis Bong. var. arenicola (Heller) J.T. Howell
Achillea borealis Bong. var. arenicola (Heller) J.T. Howell is a perennial plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is native to North America, particularly in the western parts of the United States including California, Nevada, and Oregon.
Common Names
Achillea borealis Bong. var. arenicola (Heller) J.T. Howell is commonly known as sand yarrow or boreal yarrow.
Uses
Sand yarrow has various medicinal uses. It is used to treat digestive issues such as bloating and indigestion. It is also used to control menstrual flow and to relieve menstrual cramps. Topically, it is used to heal wounds and injuries. Sand yarrow has also been used in native American culture to alleviate fever and headaches.
General Appearance
Achillea borealis Bong. var. arenicola (Heller) J.T. Howell has small clusters of white or pink flowers that bloom in the summer. Its leaves are feathery and fernlike and are silvery-green in colour. It typically grows up to 2 feet in height and thrives in sandy and rocky soils in dry places such as deserts and sagebrush.
Light requirements
Achillea borealis Bong. var. arenicola (Heller) J.T. Howell requires full sun to grow. It cannot tolerate shade or even partial shade. The plant needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. In areas with hot summers, the plant may benefit from some afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorching.
Temperature requirements
Achillea borealis Bong. var. arenicola (Heller) J.T. Howell can grow in a wide range of temperatures but prefers cooler conditions. The ideal temperature range for the plant is between 60-75°F (15.5-24°C). However, the plant is known to tolerate temperatures as low as -35°F (-37°C) in its native range.
Soil requirements
Achillea borealis Bong. var. arenicola (Heller) J.T. Howell prefers well-draining soils that are slightly alkaline to neutral pH. The plant can tolerate poor, dry, and sandy soils. However, it cannot tolerate waterlogged soils or soils with poor drainage. To improve the soil quality, adding organic matter such as compost or manure can help with water retention, aeration, and nutrient availability.
Cultivation
Achillea borealis Bong. var. arenicola (Heller) J.T. Howell is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. However, it prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Before planting, loosen the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches and amend with organic matter to improve soil structure.
Watering Needs
The plant needs regular watering during the first growing season to become established. Once established, it is drought tolerant and can withstand short periods of dry soil. Overwatering can cause root rot, so it's best to allow the soil to dry out completely between watering sessions.
Fertilization
Achillea borealis Bong. var. arenicola (Heller) J.T. Howell does not need a lot of fertilization. Too much fertilizer can cause lush, weak growth that is more susceptible to insect and disease problems. A single application of balanced fertilizer in the spring should be enough to provide the plant with enough nutrients for the growing season.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for the Achillea borealis Bong. var. arenicola (Heller) J.T. Howell plant. Deadheading spent blooms will promote more blooming and keep the plant looking neat. Trimming back the plant by a third after the blooming period is over can encourage a second flush of blooms.
Propagation of Achillea borealis Bong. var. arenicola (Heller) J.T. Howell
Achillea borealis Bong. var. arenicola (Heller) J.T. Howell, commonly known as sand yarrow, is a perennial plant that originates from North America. The plant is commonly propagated through both sexual and asexual methods.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation of Achillea borealis Bong. var. arenicola (Heller) J.T. Howell can be done by planting seeds in a well-draining soil mixture. The seeds should be sown during spring after the last frost or in autumn before the soil freezes. The seeds should be sown shallowly and should not be covered with soil for proper germination.
It is important to keep the soil moist and evenly damp to ensure good seed germination. The seeds usually germinate within 2-3 weeks, after which the seedlings should be transplanted into separate containers. The seedlings can be planted in the garden after the last frost has passed when they have reached a suitable size.
Propagation by Division
Achillea borealis Bong. var. arenicola (Heller) J.T. Howell can also be propagated via division. This is done by dividing the plant’s rootball into smaller sections and then replanting them. The division should be done during the spring or early autumn to ensure the plant has enough time to establish roots before the onset of winter. It is important to ensure that each division has enough roots attached to it.
The separated sections can then be planted in three or four inches deep holes that need to be properly enriched with compost. The soil should be well-drained, loose, and moist. Water the soil immediately after planting.
Disease and Pest Management for Achillea borealis Bong. var. arenicola (Heller) J.T. Howell
Achillea borealis Bong. var. arenicola (Heller) J.T. Howell, commonly known as sand yarrow, is a hardy plant that is naturally resistant to pests and diseases. However, like any plant, it is not immune to infestations and infections. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect sand yarrow, along with ways to manage them:
Diseases
Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can affect Achillea borealis Bong. var. arenicola (Heller) J.T. Howell. Symptoms include white or gray powdery spots on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage Powdery mildew, remove and destroy infected plant parts, avoid watering in the evening, and provide good air circulation. You may also apply a fungicide containing sulfur or potassium bicarbonate.
Root rot: Root rot is caused by a fungus that attacks the roots, causing them to decay. Symptoms include wilted leaves and stunted growth. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering, improve soil drainage and remove diseased plants.
Pests
Spider mites: Spider mites can be a problem for sand yarrow, especially in dry conditions. Symptoms include yellow or white stippling on the leaves visible from both sides, webbing, and leaf drop. To manage spider mites, apply neem oil or insecticidal soap and improve air circulation around the plants.
Aphids: Aphids are a common pest that feed on the sap of the plant, causing curling or yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. To manage aphids, use a strong stream of water to knock them off the plant or apply a neem oil or insecticidal soap. Some beneficial insects like lady beetles, lacewings, and parasitic wasps prey on aphids.
By following these disease and pest management tips, you can help Achillea borealis Bong. var. arenicola (Heller) J.T. Howell remain healthy and productive, providing beauty and habitat year after year.
