Origin
Astragalus duchesnensis M.E. Jones, commonly known as Duchesne milkvetch, is a species of flowering plant in the family Fabaceae. It is native to the United States, specifically the western regions of Utah, Idaho, and Nevada.
Common Names
Aside from Duchesne milkvetch, Astragalus duchesnensis M.E. Jones is also known by other common names such as Duchesne's milkvetch, Foothill milkvetch, and Yellow-flowered milkvetch.
Uses
The plant has various traditional and medicinal uses. Native tribes would use the root of Duchesne milkvetch to treat respiratory illnesses, such as asthma and bronchitis. It has also been used as a diuretic and to improve bowel movements. The plant has potential to be used in soil conservation and stabilization. In some places, it is used as a forage crop for livestock.
General Appearance
Astragalus duchesnensis M.E. Jones is a herbaceous perennial plant with a deep taproot, growing up to 45 cm tall. The stems are densely covered in silky hairs. The leaves are pinnately compound with 11 to 19 leaflets and are hairy on both sides. The flowers are yellow with an orange center and bloom in clusters from May to July. The fruit is a hairy, elongated pod containing seeds.
Growth Conditions of Astragalus duchesnensis M.E. Jones
Plant growth is influenced by environmental factors such as temperature, light, water, and soil. Each plant species requires specific growth conditions to thrive. Below are the growth conditions required by Astragalus duchesnensis M.E. Jones:
Light Requirements
Astragalus duchesnensis M.E. Jones requires full sunlight to grow well. This means it requires at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Lack of sunlight may result in weak plants that are more susceptible to diseases and pests.
Temperature Requirements
Astragalus duchesnensis M.E. Jones grows well under moderate temperatures. The ideal temperature range is between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Temperatures higher than 30°C (86°F) or lower than 15°C (59°F) can result in stunted growth and even death of the plant.
Soil Requirements
Well-drained soils with a pH range of 6 to 8 are ideal for the growth of Astragalus duchesnensis M.E. Jones. The soil should be fertile and rich in organic matter. Sandy loam soils are the best for growing this plant. Waterlogged soils should be avoided as they can cause root rot and other diseases.
Therefore, to cultivate Astragalus duchesnensis M.E. Jones, full sunlight, moderate temperatures, and well-drained fertile soils with a pH range of 6 to 8 should be provided.
Cultivation of Astragalus duchesnensis M.E. Jones
Astragalus duchesnensis M.E. Jones grows well in loamy, well-draining soil and requires a minimal amount of nutrients. This plant prefers full sun and grows best in areas with an average temperature of 65°F (18°C).
Watering Needs
Watering should be done sparingly. Overwatering can cause root rot and wilting of leaves. Astragalus duchesnensis M.E. Jones prefers to be watered deeply but infrequently. This plant must be allowed to dry out between watering intervals.
Fertilization
Fertilization should be done once a year, preferably in early spring before the growing season begins. Use a slow-release fertilizer with a low nitrogen content. A liquid fertilizer can also be used at a diluted strength every four weeks during the growing season.
Pruning
Pruning should be done in the early fall to maintain the plant's shape. Trim the top one-third of each stem to encourage bushy growth. Try to avoid cutting into old wood as it will not grow back. Dead or diseased branches should be removed immediately.
Propagation Method for Astragalus duchesnensis M.E. Jones
Propagation of Astragalus duchesnensis M.E. Jones can be achieved through different methods, including seeds and cuttings. Each has its unique requirements and procedures.
Propagation through seeds
Seed propagation is the most common way of growing the Astragalus duchesnensis M.E. Jones plant. One of the advantages of using seeds is that they are readily available, especially during the flowering season.
The seeds of the plant require stratification, which means exposing them to alternating temperatures of 20°C and 4°C to break dormancy. The process facilitates optimal germination of the seeds.
After stratification, sow the seeds in pots containing well-draining soil. Cover the seeds with a light layer of soil and water gently. Keep the soil moist but not wet, and place the pots in a warm, brightly lit location.
It takes approximately two weeks to a month for the seeds to germinate, after which you can transplant them into separate pots. The seedlings will require regular watering and gradual exposure to direct sunlight.
Propagation through cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is fast and easy, although it requires a bit more expertise than seed propagation. The best time to take cuttings is during the plant's active growing season, which is in spring and early summer.
To take cuttings, select a healthy and mature parent plant with strong stems. Using a sharp and sterilized knife, cut a stem of about 7-10cm long from the plant. Remove all the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting and dip it in a rooting hormone.
Plant the cutting in a pot filled with moist soil and cover it with a plastic bag or a clear glass jar to create a greenhouse effect. The cutting will root within three to six weeks, after which you can transplant it into a separate pot and care for it like a mature plant.
Disease Management for Astragalus duchesnensis M.E. Jones
Astragalus duchesnensis M.E. Jones, commonly known as Duke’s milkvetch, is susceptible to various fungal and bacterial diseases. The most common diseases that affect this plant include root rot, stem canker, and powdery mildew.
To manage root rot, it is necessary to avoid overwatering and improve soil drainage. Fungicides can also be used to prevent or minimize the spread of the disease. For stem canker, affected stems must be pruned and destroyed. Planting disease-resistant cultivars can also help prevent stem canker. To control powdery mildew, it is necessary to maintain adequate space between plants to reduce humidity levels and improve air circulation. Fungicides can also be used to prevent or control the disease.
Pest Management for Astragalus duchesnensis M.E. Jones
Astragalus duchesnensis M.E. Jones is vulnerable to various pest attacks. The most common pests that affect this plant include aphids, spider mites, and grasshoppers.
To manage aphids and spider mites, it is important to monitor the plants regularly and remove any affected parts of the plant. The use of insecticidal soaps and neem oil can be effective in controlling these pests. Grasshoppers can be controlled by using physical barriers, such as nets, to prevent access to the plants. Insecticides can also be used to control severe grasshopper infestations.
