Overview of Arabis hirsuta (L.) Scop. var. hirsuta
Arabis hirsuta (L.) Scop. var. hirsuta, commonly known as hairy rockcress, is a species of flowering plant native to Europe and Asia. It belongs to Brassicaceae family and is closely related to other plants like mustard, broccoli, and cauliflower.
Appearance of Arabis hirsuta (L.) Scop. var. hirsuta
The hairy rockcress is a small perennial herb that grows up to 30cm tall and has thin, upright stems. The plant has tiny oval-shaped leaves that are covered with woolly hair and have serrated edges. The flowers of this species are small, white, and grow in clusters at the end of the stems.
Common Names for Arabis hirsuta (L.) Scop. var. hirsuta
The hairy rockcress is known by various common names, including Hairy Tower-mustard, Hairy Bittercress, Mountain Rockcress, and Hairy Rock-cress .
Uses of Arabis hirsuta (L.) Scop. var. hirsuta
Arabis hirsuta (L.) Scop. var. hirsuta has been in use since ancient times for medicinal purposes. It was also used as a condiment for food, especially in salads, soup, and sauces. Currently, the plant is mainly used in ornamental gardening, where it is planted as a ground cover and used to control soil erosion.
Overall, Arabis hirsuta (L.) Scop. var. hirsuta is a versatile plant that adds beauty to gardens and has traditional medicinal and culinary applications. Its hardiness, adaptability, and fast growth rate make it an excellent choice for gardeners and landscapers looking for a low-maintenance plant.
Light Requirements
The Arabis hirsuta var. hirsuta is an annual or biennial plant that requires partial to full sunlight. It prefers an environment with bright light during its growth period, which is between spring and summer. Therefore, it should be grown in an area that is exposed to sunlight for at least four hours a day to enhance its growth and blooming capabilities.
Temperature Requirements
This plant grows best when exposed to cool temperatures. The ideal temperature range for Arabis hirsuta var. hirsuta growth is between 10°C to 15°C. It is necessary to ensure that the temperature does not exceed 22°C, as this may limit the plant's growth and survival rate. The plant can tolerate frost, and it can grow well in areas with a temperature as low as -10°C during the active growth period.
Soil Requirements
The Arabis hirsuta var. hirsuta thrives in well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It prefers sandy or loamy soil that is rich in organic matter, and it is intolerant to heavy or compacted soil. The plant requires consistent moisture levels, and adequate soil drainage is vital in preventing waterlogging, which may lead to root rot. To enhance the soil quality, it is recommended to add compost or organic fertilizer to improve the nutrient content and soil structure.
Cultivation Methods
Arabis hirsuta is a rugged, hardy plant that can thrive successfully in poor soil. They grow best in bright, sunny areas with good drainage and are an excellent option for beginners. These plants can be propagated either using seeds or cuttings and typically show signs of life after two weeks.
When growing Arabis hirsuta, it is crucial to have a soil pH of between 6 and 7.5. These plants prefer soil that is slightly acidic and can grow in soils with a pH value of up to 8. However, the ideal soil texture for Arabis hirsuta cultivation is sandy, loamy soil. They also prefer a site that is sheltered from the wind as it can damage the plant's tender branches and buds.
Watering Needs
Arabis hirsuta requires moderate watering. These plants prefer to be kept moderately dry rather than wet, and overwatering can lead to root rot. It is essential to water the plants thoroughly at the base and avoid getting the leaves wet to prevent fungal diseases. During hot weather, ensure that the plants are watered early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid evaporation.
Fertilization
Arabis hirsuta is relatively drought tolerant and doesn't require much fertilization. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers as they can promote leafy growth, which isn't ideal for shrubs or groundcover. Instead, fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once per month during the growing season. You can also use organic compost to feed the plant during spring and summer.
Pruning
Pruning Arabis hirsuta is relatively simple. If you want to stimulate new growth, prune the plant after flowering. Cut back any spindly and damaged stems to about two-thirds of their length. Additionally, you can remove any woody or dried stems to allow fresh growth. When pruning, ensure that you use sterilized pruning tools to avoid introducing any diseases to the plant.
Propagation of Arabis hirsuta (L.) Scop. var. hirsuta
Arabis hirsuta (L.) Scop. var. hirsuta can be propagated by the following methods:
Seed propagation
The easiest and most common way to propagate Arabis hirsuta (L.) Scop. var. hirsuta is by seed. The flower of the plant produces small pods containing the seeds. To propagate, collect the pods, let them dry out, and then remove the seeds from the pod. Sow the seeds in a prepared bed in either spring or fall. The seeds usually germinate within 2-3 weeks and the plant will start growing.
Cuttings propagation
Another way to propagate Arabis hirsuta (L.) Scop. var. hirsuta is through cuttings. Cuttings from the plant root quite quickly and may develop into a mature plant within one growing season. Collect cuttings from the parent plant in the spring or early summer. Take the cuttings from the top 10-12 cm of the plant. Cut the stems at a 45-degree angle, dip them in rooting hormone, and plant them in well-draining soil. Water the cuttings moderately and keep them in a shaded area. The plant will start rooting within a few weeks.
Division propagation
Arabis hirsuta (L.) Scop. var. hirsuta can also be propagated by division. This method involves digging up an established plant and dividing it into several smaller plants with roots. This is best done in the spring or fall when the plant is not in bloom. Cut the plant into several sections and replant them in well-drained soil. Water the plant well and place it in partial shade. The plant will start to grow within a few weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Arabis hirsuta var. hirsuta Plants
Arabis hirsuta var. hirsuta, also known as hairy rockcress, is a hardy plant that can withstand certain pests and diseases. However, some common issues can affect the plant's health and productivity, which requires proper management techniques. Below are some of the common diseases and pests of Arabis hirsuta var. hirsuta and the ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
Fungal Leaf Spots: One of the most common diseases of Arabis hirsuta var. hirsuta is fungal leaf spots. These are characterized by the appearance of brown or black spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is recommended to ensure proper ventilation and avoid watering the plants from above. Additionally, any infected leaves should be removed and destroyed.
Clubroot: Clubroot is a disease caused by soil-borne fungi that affect the roots of plants. The symptoms of clubroot include stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and wilting. To manage this disease, it is recommended to ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering. Additionally, planting resistant varieties and rotating the crops can also help in managing clubroot.
Common Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck sap from plant leaves, causing them to wilt and die. The presence of ants is an indication of aphids, as ants feed on honeydew, a sticky residue left by aphids. To manage aphids, it is recommended to spray plants with water or insecticidal soap regularly.
Slugs and snails: Slugs and snails are common pests that feed on the foliage of Arabis hirsuta var. hirsuta plants, causing significant damage. To manage slugs and snails, it is recommended to remove any debris and mulch from around the plants, as this provides them with hiding places. Additionally, copper strips or wire can be placed around the plants to deter slugs and snails.
Overall, Arabis hirsuta var. hirsuta plants require proper maintenance and care to avoid pest and disease problems. Using appropriate management techniques can help to keep these issues under control and ensure healthy, productive plants.
