Introduction
Arabis ×divaricarpa A. Nels. (pro sp.) is a plant species belonging to the family Brassicaceae. It is a hybrid species between Arabis missouriensis and Arabis serotina, native to the United States.
Common Names
Arabis ×divaricarpa A. Nels. (pro sp.) is commonly known as Rockcress and Spreading rockcress.
Appearance
Arabis ×divaricarpa A. Nels. (pro sp.) grows up to 30 cm in height and spreads up to 50 cm. The leaves of the plant are hairy and lance-shaped. They are arranged alternately on the stem. The flowers are small and white, blooming in clusters. The plant blooms from April to May.
Uses
Arabis ×divaricarpa A. Nels. (pro sp.) is often used in rock gardens, borders, and edging. It is a hardy plant and can tolerate drought and heat. The plant's seeds are collected and used to start new plants. The plant is also used in traditional medicine as a remedy for digestive issues, such as constipation and indigestion.
Light Requirements
Arabis ×divaricarpa A. Nels. can grow in both full sun and partial shade conditions. However, it is essential to provide it with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight exposure every day to ensure healthy growth and flowering.
Temperature Requirements
This plant has a moderate temperature requirement and can tolerate a slight frost. The optimal temperature range for Arabis ×divaricarpa A. Nels. is between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) during the day and 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F) at night.
Soil Requirements
Arabis ×divaricarpa A. Nels. prefers well-drained soil with a slightly alkaline pH level between 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter, which helps it retain moisture. It can also grow in rocky or gravelly soil types, which can aid in better drainage.
Cultivation
Arabis ×divaricarpa A. Nels. (pro sp.) prefers well-drained soil and full to partial sun exposure. It can tolerate drought and is easy to grow in gardens or containers.
Watering Needs
Arabis ×divaricarpa A. Nels. (pro sp.) should be watered regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. The soil should never be allowed to dry out completely. It is important to water the plant's base and avoid getting water on the foliage.
Fertilization
Arabis ×divaricarpa A. Nels. (pro sp.) benefits from light fertilization in the spring and fall. It is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Over-fertilization can result in weaker stems and decreased flowering.
Pruning
Arabis ×divaricarpa A. Nels. (pro sp.) does not require regular pruning, but deadheading spent blooms can promote continued flowering. Any damaged or diseased stems should be removed promptly to prevent the spread of disease. In the fall, the plant can be pruned back to promote healthy growth the following year.
Propagation of Arabis ×divaricarpa A. Nels. (pro sp.)
Arabis ×divaricarpa A. Nels. (pro sp.) can be propagated through various methods, including seed propagation, stem cutting propagation, and division propagation.
Seed propagation
The easiest and most common method of propagating Arabis ×divaricarpa A. Nels. is through seed propagation. The seeds can be collected from the plant when they are ripe and sown immediately. They can also be stored in a cool and dry place for later use.
Seeds should be sown in a well-drained potting mix, and they should be covered with a light layer of soil. They should be kept moist but not waterlogged. After germination, the seedlings can be transplanted to individual pots and grown until they are large enough to be planted in their permanent location.
Stem cutting propagation
Stem cutting propagation can also be a viable method for propagating Arabis ×divaricarpa A. Nels. Cuttings should be taken from the plant in the spring or early summer, before the plant starts to flower. The cuttings should be taken from healthy, vigorous stems, and should be approximately 4-6 inches long.
The leafy, non-flowering portion of the stem should be removed, and the remaining stem should be inserted into a well-draining potting mix. The cutting should be kept moist and covered with a plastic bag to maintain humidity. After a few weeks, the cutting should have rooted and can be transplanted to its permanent location.
Division propagation
Division propagation can be another option for propagating Arabis ×divaricarpa A. Nels. This method involves dividing an established plant into smaller pieces, each of which can be replanted and grown into a new plant.
The best time to divide Arabis ×divaricarpa A. Nels. is in the early spring, just as the plant starts to emerge from dormancy. The plant should be carefully dug up and the root ball should be gently separated into smaller pieces, each of which should have roots attached. These pieces can be replanted in their permanent location and watered regularly until established.
Disease and Pest Management for Arabis ×divaricarpa A. Nels.
Arabis ×divaricarpa A. Nels. is generally a hardy plant that is not plagued by many diseases or pests. However, it is still important to be on the lookout for any signs of damage and to take appropriate measures to protect the plant.
Common Diseases
The most common diseases that can affect Arabis ×divaricarpa A. Nels. are fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. These diseases can cause the leaves to turn yellow or brown and can lead to defoliation, which can weaken the plant.
To manage fungal diseases, it is important to keep the plant dry as much as possible. Watering in the morning instead of the evening can help with this. Avoid getting the leaves wet when watering, and make sure the plant has good air circulation. If a fungal disease does occur, remove any affected leaves and dispose of them properly. Fungicides can also be used as a last resort if the problem persists.
Common Pests
The main pests that can affect Arabis ×divaricarpa A. Nels. are aphids, spider mites, and caterpillars. These pests can cause damage to the foliage and can even kill the plant if left unchecked.
To manage pest infestations, it is important to inspect the plant regularly and remove any pests that are found. This can be done by handpicking the pests or by using a blast of water to dislodge them. Insecticidal soaps and oils can also be used to control pest populations.
Overall, with proper care and vigilance, Arabis ×divaricarpa A. Nels. can thrive without being too affected by diseases or pests.
