Overview
Arabis vivariensis Welsh, commonly known as Vivarium rockcress, is a perennial flowering plant belonging to the Brassicaceae family. This plant is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.
Appearance
Vivarium rockcress grows in a low, mounding habit, reaching up to 4-6 inches in height and 12-24 inches in width. The plant has a dense, basal rosette of narrow, oblong-shaped leaves that are gray-green and hairy. The plant produces delicate clusters of small, white-pink, or rosy-purple flowers in the spring, sitting atop 12-18 inch tall stems.
Uses
Arabis vivariensis is a popular ornamental plant and is widely used in rock gardens, borders, and as a ground cover. The plant's low-growing and compact habit make it an excellent choice for dry, rocky areas in well-draining soil. Additionally, Vivarium rockcress is an excellent choice for pollinator gardens, attracting bees and butterflies.
Light Requirements
The Arabis vivariensis Welsh plant grows best in areas that receive bright but indirect sunlight. It can also tolerate partial shade but needs around 4-6 hours of sunlight each day for proper growth and development. Exposure to direct sunlight for extended periods can cause the leaves to burn, so it is essential to provide a suitable amount of light.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Arabis vivariensis Welsh plant growth is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant is hardy and can tolerate colder temperatures, but prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause stress, affecting the plant's health. Extreme temperature fluctuations, such as sudden drops in temperature, can harm the plant, so it is essential to keep it in a temperature-stable environment.
Soil Requirements
The Arabis vivariensis Welsh plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. Soil that is too acidic can hinder the growth of the plant by reducing nutrient absorption, while alkaline soil can cause leaf yellowing and stunted growth. The soil should be rich in organic matter and have good drainage properties to ensure adequate aeration and prevent waterlogging. Adding sand or perlite to the soil mixture can improve drainage if needed.
Cultivation Methods
Arabis vivariensis Welsh, also known as the Vivarium rock-cress, is a perennial plant that requires well-drained soil and full sunlight for optimal growth. It is best grown from seeds, which can be sown directly into the soil or started indoors and later transplanted. The ideal pH range for the soil should be between 6.0 and 7.5. The plant can thrive in both cooler and warmer temperatures, but it is important to keep it protected from extreme heat and direct sunlight.
Watering Needs
Arabis vivariensis Welsh requires regular watering during its growing season, which is usually in the spring and summer months. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. To prevent overwatering, make sure the soil is well-drained, and allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. During the winter months, the plant may require less frequent watering.
Fertilization
Arbis vivariensis is a low maintenance plant but you can fertilize it with a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 NPK blend, once a month during the growing season. Too much fertilizer can stimulate excessive leaf growth at the expense of bloom production. Applying a well-balanced fertilizer will improve the overall health of the plant and encourage it to produce more flowers.
Pruning
Pruning is typically not necessary for Arabis vivariensis Welsh. However, if the plant starts to look untidy or overgrown, you can trim it back lightly after flowering to maintain its shape and promote a bushier growth. Cut back the stems to about half their length and remove any dead or damaged leaves and stems. This should be done at the beginning of the fall season after flowering has ended.
Propagation of Arabis Vivariensis Welsh
Arabis vivariensis Welsh is a lovely perennial plant that originates from the family Brassicaceae. It's an ideal plant for rock gardens, borders, and edges. Growing Arabis vivariensis Welsh is relatively easy, and it can be done by propagation. Below are the propagation methods:
Seed Propagation
The best time to begin seed propagation of Arabis vivariensis Welsh is in the spring. The seeds are small and need warmth to germinate. Sow them into trays, pots, or directly into the garden bed. Cover the seeds with a light layer of soil and keep them moist. It takes about three to four weeks for the seeds to germinate. Once they are around 3-4 inches tall, you can transplant them to their permanent location.
Division
Dividing Arabis vivariensis Welsh is a simple propagation method. It's best to divide the plant in the spring. Dig out the mature plant and divide the root into smaller clumps, ensuring that each clump has some foliage. Replant the divided clumps into their new location and water them well.
Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is the quickest way to obtain new Arabis vivariensis Welsh plants. Cut back some green shoots from the plant during spring and early summer. The cuttings should have some leaf nodes and should be around 3-4 inches long. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting and plant it in moist soil. Cover it with a plastic bag and place it in a bright and warm location. It takes around 2-3 weeks for the cuttings to root fully. Once they root, transplant them to their new location.
Disease and Pest Management for Arabis Vivariensis Welsh
Arabis vivariensis Welsh is a sturdy, low-growing perennial that is generally resistant to most pests and diseases. Keeping the plant healthy and well-maintained is key to preventing any issues from arising.
Pests
Common pests that may affect Arabis vivariensis Welsh include aphids, spider mites, and cabbage loopers. To manage these pests:
- Aphids: blast them off with a strong jet of water or use an insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: use a miticide or insecticidal soap.
- Cabbage loopers: hand-pick them off the plant or use Bacillus thuringiensis, a bacterial pesticide.
Diseases
Arabis vivariensis Welsh is susceptible to some fungal diseases, including powdery mildew and downy mildew. These diseases can be managed by:
- Powdery mildew: treat with a fungicide containing sulfur or potassium bicarbonate.
- Downy mildew: treat with a fungicide containing copper.
Prevention is always the best approach to disease management. Keeping the plant healthy and well-watered, ensuring proper air circulation, and pruning away any infected branches or leaves can help prevent the spread of disease.
