Description of Alchemilla microcarpa Boiss. & Reut.
Alchemilla microcarpa Boiss. & Reut. is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Rosaceae. This plant is also known by its common names, Alpine Lady's-mantle or Small-fruit Lady's-mantle.
Origin of Alchemilla microcarpa Boiss. & Reut.
Alchemilla microcarpa Boiss. & Reut. is found primarily in the mountain regions of Europe, including Switzerland, Austria, and France. It is a plant that thrives in alpine meadows, rocky slopes, and crevices at high altitudes.
General appearance of Alchemilla microcarpa Boiss. & Reut.
Alchemilla microcarpa Boiss. & Reut. is a compact plant with a height of 10-30 cm. The leaves of this plant are palmately lobed, with a distinct silver-grey color and a velvety texture. The flowers of Alchemilla microcarpa Boiss. & Reut. are small and yellow-green in color, blooming in the summer months.
Uses of Alchemilla microcarpa Boiss. & Reut.
Alchemilla microcarpa Boiss. & Reut. has several medicinal properties, particularly in the treatment of women's health issues such as menstrual irregularities and menopause symptoms. The leaves of this plant were traditionally used as a tea in Europe to alleviate cramps and reduce heavy bleeding during menstruation. The plant also has astringent properties that have been utilized in folk medicine to treat bruises, wounds, and digestive disorders.
In addition to its medicinal uses, Alchemilla microcarpa Boiss. & Reut. is also a popular ornamental plant. It is often grown in rock gardens, as well as in borders and containers due to its attractive foliage and delicate flowers.
Growth Conditions for Alchemilla microcarpa Boiss. & Reut.
Alchemilla microcarpa Boiss. & Reut. is a hardy perennial plant that grows well in a variety of conditions. However, providing the optimal growth conditions is essential for the best growth and overall health of the plant.
Light
The plant requires bright, indirect sunlight to thrive. Direct sunlight can cause scorching and damage the leaves. Therefore, it is recommended to place the plant in a spot with bright, filtered light. Indoor plants can also be grown under artificial light sources, such as grow lights, to provide adequate light.
Temperature
Alchemilla microcarpa Boiss. & Reut. prefers cool to mild temperatures and can withstand light frost. The ideal temperature range for the plant is between 55°F to 75°F. In hot summer months, it is recommended to place the plant in a cooler, shaded area to prevent wilt and damage.
Soil
The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH (around 6.0-6.5). The soil should have good drainage to prevent waterlogging, as it can lead to root rot. A soil mixture containing organic matter, such as compost or peat moss, is ideal for the plant's growth.
Additionally, adding a layer of mulch around the plant can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, promoting overall plant health.
Watering
Alchemilla microcarpa Boiss. & Reut. requires regular watering to maintain its moisture requirement. The soil should be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged, to prevent root rot. Watering the plant in the morning is recommended as it allows the excess water to evaporate during the day, preventing fungal diseases.
During the winter months, the plant's water requirements decrease, and watering should be reduced to prevent overwatering.
Fertilizer
The plant does not require regular fertilization and can tolerate a modest nutrient level. However, adding fertilizer during the plant's growing season can provide the necessary nutrients for optimal growth. A balanced fertilizer with an equal proportion of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is ideal for the plant's overall health.
Regular care and maintenance, including pruning, can help promote better growth and health of the Alchemilla microcarpa Boiss. & Reut. plant.
Cultivation Method of Alchemilla microcarpa Boiss. & Reut.
Alchemilla microcarpa Boiss. & Reut is commonly grown in garden borders, rockeries and cottage gardens. The plant prefers well-drained, loamy soils that are rich in organic matter. It can be grown from seeds or propagated through division in early spring or late autumn.
When growing from seeds, it is advisable to sow indoors in early spring and then transplant outdoors when the weather warms up. The seeds should be sown in a potting mix and kept moist at all times. They usually take 2-3 weeks to germinate.
If propagating through division, select a healthy specimen and gently dig up the plant. Using a sharp knife, divide the plant into smaller sections, making sure each section has adequate roots. Replant the sections in well-draining soil.
Watering Needs of Alchemilla microcarpa Boiss. & Reut.
Alchemilla microcarpa Boiss. & Reut. prefers moderate watering, especially during the growing season. The plant should be watered thoroughly at least once a week, allowing the soil to dry out between watering sessions. Overwatering should be avoided, as the plant is susceptible to root rot.
During times of drought, extra watering may be required. It is important to note that the plant is drought-tolerant and can survive long periods without water.
Fertilization of Alchemilla microcarpa Boiss. & Reut.
Alchemilla microcarpa Boiss. & Reut. benefits from fertilization during the growing season. A balanced liquid fertilizer can be applied every two weeks, or a slow-release granular fertilizer can be used at the beginning of the growing season. The fertilizer should be applied according to the manufacturer's instructions, and over-fertilization should be avoided.
Pruning of Alchemilla microcarpa Boiss. & Reut.
Alchemilla microcarpa Boiss. & Reut. requires minimal pruning. Deadheading the plants after flowering will encourage more blooms. If the plant becomes too large, it can be lightly pruned in the autumn to maintain its shape. Over-pruning should be avoided, as the plant's delicate nature can make it susceptible to damage.
Propagation of Alchemilla microcarpa Boiss. & Reut.
Alchemilla microcarpa Boiss. & Reut. can be propagated by division and seeds.
Division
Division is an easy and effective way to propagate Alchemilla microcarpa Boiss. & Reut. The best time to divide the plant is in early spring or fall when the plant is dormant. Dig up the plant carefully, and use a sharp knife or garden shears to divide the root ball. Ensure that each section has healthy roots and shoots. Plant the individual sections in well-draining and fertile soil, and water them thoroughly.
Seeds
Propagation of Alchemilla microcarpa Boiss. & Reut. seeds is another viable method. The plant produces flowers from May to July. Once the flowers have faded, the seed heads should be harvested. Allow the seed heads to dry for a few days before removing the seeds. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix in peat pots. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil, water them, and then cover the pots with plastic wrap. Place the pots in indirect light and maintain a temperature of around 20°C. The seeds will germinate in two to three weeks. Once the seedlings have two or three true leaves, transplant them into larger pots or directly into the garden.
Disease Management
Alchemilla microcarpa Boiss. & Reut. is generally considered to be a disease-resistant plant, but it is not entirely immune to diseases. The most common diseases that can affect the plant are powdery mildew and botrytis blight. Powdery mildew appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves, while botrytis blight causes brownish spots on the leaves and stem. To manage these diseases, it is essential to maintain good cultural practices. Regular pruning and removing diseased plant parts can prevent the spread of disease. You can also use a fungicide spray to prevent infection or manage the disease.
Pest Management
Alchemilla microcarpa Boiss. & Reut. is vulnerable to a wide range of pests, including aphids, spider mites, and leaf miners. Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that suck sap from the leaves, causing them to wilt and yellow. Spider mites are tiny insects that feed on the leaves, causing them to have speckled appearance. Leaf miners are larvae that tunnel inside the leaves, causing irregular patterns on them. To manage these pests, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil sprays that can be effective in reducing the number of pests on your plants. You can also practice good hygiene, remove affected leaves, and use sticky traps to prevent the spread of pests.
