Arabis glabra (L.) Bernh.
Arabis glabra (L.) Bernh. is a perennial herb belonging to the Brassicaceae family. It is native to Europe and western Asia, and can be found in rocky areas, meadows, and forests.
Common Names
The common names for Arabis glabra include Tower rockcress, Tower rock-cress, Tower rock cress, and hairy rockcress.
Uses
Arabis glabra has been used in traditional medicine to treat coughs, colds, and bronchial inflammations. It also has ornamental uses and is often grown as a rock garden plant due to its attractive foliage and flowers. Additionally, it is a nectar source for bees.
General Appearance
The plant reaches a height of 20 to 40 cm, with a basal rosette of dark green leaves. The leaves are deeply lobed and oval-shaped, measuring up to 8 cm in length. Its flowers are white or pale pink and bloom from April to June. The plant produces a long and narrow seedpod that measures up to 7 cm.
Light Requirements
Arabis glabra (L.) Bernh. belongs to a group of plants that grow optimally in bright light conditions. This plant needs a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight or at least 12 hours of bright, indirect light to grow well. Although the plant can still grow in low light conditions, it's best to place it in a spot that receives ample sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The typical growing temperature for Arabis glabra is between 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). The plant can tolerate a few degrees higher or lower, but it may not grow well within that range. During the winter, it's crucial to ensure that the plant is protected from frost, as it may cause severe damage.
Soil Requirements
Arabis glabra grows best in well-draining soil that's slightly acidic with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. When growing this plant outdoors, ensure that the topsoil is loosened, and organic matter, like compost, is added to the soil. Indoors, use a high-quality potting mix, which will provide ample nutrients for the plant to grow.
The soil should also be rich in nutrients and humus, with excellent water retention capacity. However, it's essential not to overwater the plant, as it may lead to root rot. For the best results, the soil should be kept slightly damp, and the plant should be watered occasionally.
Cultivation Methods
Arabis glabra is a resilient plant that can grow in a range of soil types, including dry and rocky soils. It thrives in full to partial sunlight and requires well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging. The best time to plant Arabis glabra is in the spring or autumn.
Watering Needs
While Arabis glabra is drought-tolerant, young plants require regular watering until they establish themselves. In general, the plant should be watered deeply once every week. However, the frequency of watering should be adjusted according to the specific soil and weather conditions.
Fertilization
Arabis glabra does not require a lot of fertilization. However, adding compost or other organic matter to the soil during planting can be beneficial. Fertilizer can be applied twice a year during the growing season, and a balanced fertilizer should be used.
Pruning
Pruning Arabis glabra is not necessary for its survival, but it can help to maintain its appearance and shape. The best time for pruning is immediately after flowering. Remove any dead or diseased wood, and cut back the stems to a healthy bud. Avoid cutting into the woody part of the plant as this can damage it.
Propagation of Arabis Glabra
Arabis glabra, commonly known as Tower Rockcress, is a perennial plant that can be propagated by various methods such as division, cuttings, and seed germination.
Division
Division is the easiest and fastest method to propagate Arabis glabra. It involves separating the plant into smaller sections and transplanting them into their own containers or directly into the ground. This should be done in the spring or early fall when the plant is not flowering. Dig up the plant, then gently separate the root mass into smaller sections and replant them with adequate spacing between each plant.
Cuttings
Cuttings are another way to propagate Arabis glabra, but it can be more challenging than division. Softwood cuttings are taken in the spring or summer, while the plant is actively growing. Select a healthy stem and cut it just below a node, then remove the leaves from the lower half of the stem. Dip the end of the stem in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist, and in about a month, the cutting should root.
Seed Germination
Seed germination is the most common method to propagate Arabis glabra. The seeds can be directly sown in the garden bed in the fall or early spring. The seeds should be lightly covered with soil and kept moist until germination. It can take up to a month for seedlings to emerge. Once the seedlings have a few leaves, thin them to provide adequate spacing.
Overall, Arabis glabra is an easy-to-grow plant that can be propagated by division, cuttings, or seed germination.
Disease and Pest Management for Arabis glabra
Arabis glabra, commonly known as Tower Rockcress, is a hardy plant that grows well in a wide range of soil types. However, it can still fall victim to several diseases and pests that can affect its growth and overall health. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that affect Arabis glabra and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Fungal infections: Arabis glabra is susceptible to various fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, downy mildew, and leaf spot. These diseases can cause leaf yellowing, wilting, and eventually death of the plant. To manage fungal infections in Arabis glabra, use fungicides that contain neem oil or copper-based compounds. Ensure you apply the fungicide to the entire plant, including the underside of leaves.
Bacterial canker: Symptoms of bacterial canker include wilting, dieback, and cankers on the stem. To manage bacterial canker, remove and destroy the affected plant parts and ensure the plant has good air circulation to prevent further spread of the disease.
Root rot: Arabis glabra is prone to root rot caused by waterlogging. You can mitigate the risk of root rot by planting Arabis glabra in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering the plant.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are common pests that infest Arabis glabra. They suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth, curling of leaves, and yellowing. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, which can suffocate and cause the death of the aphids.
Cabbage worm: The cabbage worm is a green caterpillar that feeds on the leaves of Arabis glabra, leaving large holes on the leaves. To manage cabbage worms, apply Bacillus thuringiensis (BT), which is a bacterial-based insecticide that can kill the caterpillars.
Slugs and snails: Slugs and snails can devour leaves and stems of young Arabis glabra plants. To manage these pests, use slug baits, copper barriers, or handpick and dispose of them.
By taking a preventive approach to disease and pest management, you can ensure that your Arabis glabra plant remains healthy and vibrant for years to come.
