Description of Alchemilla vulgaris L. var. pastoralis (Buser) Boivin
Alchemilla vulgaris L. var. pastoralis (Buser) Boivin is a perennial herb that belongs to the family Rosaceae. The plant is commonly known as Lady's mantle or Virgin's mantle and is native to Europe and Asia.
General Appearance of Alchemilla vulgaris L. var. pastoralis (Buser) Boivin
The plant has long-stalked, rounded leaves that are approximately 5-7 cm in diameter, with seven to eleven lobes. The leaves are bright green in color, and their surface is slightly hairy. The plant grows up to a height of 30-50cm and produces yellow-green flowers from April to August.
Uses of Alchemilla vulgaris L. var. pastoralis (Buser) Boivin
Alchemilla vulgaris L. var. pastoralis (Buser) Boivin has been traditionally used in herbal medicine due to its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. The leaves and flowers are used to make tea that is used to treat menstrual cramps, heavy bleeding, and diarrhea. The plant's leaves are also used as a poultice to treat bruises, wounds, and skin irritations.
Alchemilla vulgaris L. var. pastoralis (Buser) Boivin is also used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping due to its attractive foliage and flowers.
In conclusion, Alchemilla vulgaris L. var. pastoralis (Buser) Boivin is a versatile plant that can be used for medicinal purposes and as an ornamental plant. The plant's unique appearance and multiple uses make it a valuable addition to any garden or herbal medicine cabinet.
Light Requirements
Alchemilla vulgaris L. var. pastoralis (Buser) Boivin thrives in partial to full shade conditions and prefers indirect sunlight. In areas that receive too much direct sunlight, the plant may become weakened and suffer from leaf scorching or wilting. On the other hand, in areas that receive insufficient light, the plant may not grow to its full potential.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for the growth and development of Alchemilla vulgaris L. var. pastoralis (Buser) Boivin is between 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). The plant may display signs of stress when temperatures are too high or too low. In environments with temperatures above 24°C (75°F), the foliage may scorch, wilt, or turn yellow. When temperatures drop below 5°C (41°F), the plant may become dormant.
Soil Requirements
Alchemilla vulgaris L. var. pastoralis (Buser) Boivin prefers moist, well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH for the plant is between 5.5 to 6.5. The plant can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils, but it may not perform as well in soils that are waterlogged or too dry. Adding compost or well-rotted manure to the soil can help improve its water-retention capacity and increase its fertility, which can benefit the plant's growth.
Cultivation methods
Alchemilla vulgaris L. var. pastoralis (Buser) Boivin is a hardy perennial plant that generally prefers a cool and moist growing environment. It is adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. Planting can be done in spring or fall, and the ideal location is an area that receives partial shade or filtered sunlight.
Before planting, prepare the soil by loosening it and removing weeds and debris. Dig a hole of the same depth as the plant's container or root ball and twice as wide. Gently place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, pressing firmly to eliminate air pockets.
Watering needs
Alchemilla vulgaris L. var. pastoralis requires consistent moisture, especially during the first year of growth. Therefore, it's recommended to keep the soil evenly moist during dry spells but avoid overwatering, which may lead to root rot. To ensure proper watering, stick your finger into the soil; if it feels dry, it's time to water. During hot and dry weather, consider adding a layer of mulch around the plant to help retain moisture and reduce weed growth.
Fertilization
Alchemilla vulgaris L. var. pastoralis is not a heavy feeder and usually doesn't require fertilization. However, if the soil is poor in nutrients, you can add a slow-release fertilizer in early spring or late fall. Follow the manufacturer's instructions, and avoid overfertilization, which may cause the plant to produce excessive foliage and fewer flowers. If the plant looks stunted or with yellowing leaves, it may signal a nutrient deficiency, in which case, a soil test can help determine the appropriate fertilizer.
Pruning
Alchemilla vulgaris L. var. pastoralis doesn't require much pruning but benefits from deadheading (removal of spent flowers) to encourage new growth and prolonged blooming. Deadheading can be done with a pair of scissors or pruners, and it's best to do it before the seed heads form. Additionally, if the plant becomes too leggy or sprawling, you can cut it back to a few inches above the ground after flowering. This will promote a bushier and more compact habit. Division is another way to rejuvenate an old or overgrown plant, and it's best done in early spring or fall.
Propagation of Alchemilla vulgaris L. var. pastoralis (Buser) Boivin
Alchemilla vulgaris L. var. pastoralis (Buser) Boivin commonly known as Lady's Mantle is a herbaceous perennial plant that is primarily propagated by seed or vegetative means.
Propagation by seeds
Seeds of Alchemilla vulgaris are produced in abundance during the summer months. The seeds can be sown directly in the field or in containers during the spring or fall seasons. The ideal temperature for germination is between 20-25°C, and seeds usually take around two to three weeks to germinate. The seedlings can be transplanted to their permanent location once they have developed a few true leaves.
Propagation by division
Alchemilla vulgaris can also be propagated by division. This is done by digging up the mature plant during the dormant season and separating it into smaller sections. Each section should have a portion of the root system and a few shoots. These sections can be planted in the desired location and watered well.
Propagation by cuttings
Propagation of Alchemilla vulgaris can also be done by taking stem cuttings during the growing season. Cuttings should be taken from the new growth, and the lower leaves should be removed. These cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in soil or in water until roots have developed. Once the roots have formed, the cuttings can be planted in their permanent location.
Overall, Alchemilla vulgaris is an easy to propagate plant that can be utilized in garden designs or as a ground cover.
Disease Management
Alchemilla vulgaris L. var. pastoralis (Buser) Boivin is prone to several diseases that can affect its optimal growth and development. Here are some of the common diseases and ways to manage them:
Anthracnose
Anthracnose is caused by Colletotrichum spp. and can lead to brown or black spots on the leaves, stem, or flowers of the plant. To manage this disease, remove all the infected plant parts and dispose of them. Also, avoid overhead irrigation and keep the plant environment dry and well-ventilated.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is caused by different fungal species and leads to powdery white or gray patches on the plant's leaves, stems, or flowers. To manage this disease, prune the plant's affected parts and maintain proper airflow and ventilation within the plant area. Additionally, apply fungicides that are effective against powdery mildew to prevent the disease from spreading to other parts of the plant.
Pest Management
Several pests can potentially damage Alchemilla vulgaris L. var. pastoralis (Buser) Boivin. Here are some common pests and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can potentially damage the plant's leaves and flowers. To control aphids, prune the affected parts of the plant and rinse it periodically with a strong jet of water to remove the aphid colony. Alternatively, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to eliminate the aphids.
Leaf Miners
Leaf miners are the larvae of small flies that tunnel throughout the leaves, causing brown spots and holes. To manage leaf miners, remove and dispose of affected leaves and keep the plant well-watered and fertilized to enhance its resistance. You can also apply insecticides containing imidacloprid or spinosad to eliminate leaf miners.
Slugs and Snails
Slugs and snails are known to feed on the plant, leaving behind irregular holes on the leaves. To manage these pests, remove all the debris around the plant, apply slug and snail baits around the plant, or handpick and dispose of them in soapy water. You can also use copper tape or wire around the plant's base to prevent these pests from reaching it.
