Overview
Brassica strigosa (Thunb.) DC. var. glabrata Sond. is a plant species found in South Africa. It is a member of the Brassicaceae family, which includes other popular vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and kale.
Common Names
Brassica strigosa var. glabrata is commonly known as the smooth mustard, South African mustard, and bokbaai cabbage.
Appearance
Brassica strigosa var. glabrata is an annual plant that grows up to 60cm tall. It has a smooth stem and light green leaves that are lobed or somewhat rounded. The plant produces small, yellow flowers that are grouped together in a cluster. It also has a long, narrow seed pod that is about 6 cm long.
Uses
The seeds of Brassica strigosa var. glabrata are often used as a spice in South African cuisine. It has a characteristic hot, pungent flavor that is often compared to mustard seeds. The leaves of this plant are also edible and can be used similarly to other leafy greens. They are rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, folate, and iron. Aside from its culinary uses, Brassica strigosa var. glabrata is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as colds, flu, and asthma.
Growth conditions of Brassica strigosa (Thunb.) DC. var. glabrata Sond.
Brassica strigosa (Thunb.) DC. var. glabrata Sond. is a herbaceous annual plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is commonly found in rocky areas, open fields, and disturbed habitats.
Light requirements
Brassica strigosa (Thunb.) DC. var. glabrata Sond. requires full sun exposure to grow optimally. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to maintain its growth and development. Insufficient light can cause stunted growth and poor flowering.
Temperature requirements
The plant grows best in warm climates, with an optimal temperature range of 20-25°C. Temperatures above 30°C can cause stress and damage to the plant. Brassica strigosa (Thunb.) DC. var. glabrata Sond. can tolerate mild frost, but prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can kill the plant.
Soil requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soils rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but grows best in loamy or sandy soils. It requires a pH range of 6-7.5 for optimal growth. The plant is moderately drought-tolerant, but performs best when soil moisture is consistent.
Cultivation of Brassica strigosa (Thunb.) DC. var. glabrata Sond.
Brassica strigosa (Thunb.) DC. var. glabrata Sond. can be grown in a variety of soil types, including light sandy soil to a moderately heavy loam soil. Sowing the seeds in a warm temperature between 15 to 25 Celsius can result in a good yield. The plant prefers full sunlight for optimal growth and should be sown in an area that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. The soil pH should be between 6.0 to 7.0 to avoid any nutrient deficiencies in the plant.
Watering needs of Brassica strigosa (Thunb.) DC. var. glabrata Sond.
The plants require regular watering to maintain the optimum moisture content in the soil. Over-watering should be avoided, as it can lead to rotting of the roots. The watering schedule can vary depending on the weather conditions, but it's crucial to ensure that the soil is moist and not dry. Hand-watering or drip irrigation is recommended over overhead irrigation, as it minimizes the risk of fungal growth due to moisture on the plant's foliage.
Fertilization of Brassica strigosa (Thunb.) DC. var. glabrata Sond.
Regular fertilization is essential for the growth and optimal yield of Brassica strigosa (Thunb.) DC. var. glabrata Sond. A balanced fertilizer with a 10-10-10 NPK ratio should be applied to the soil every three to four weeks. However, it's important to avoid using too much fertilizer, as it can lead to excessive leafy growth and lower productivity. Alternatively, using organic fertilizers such as manure, compost, and bone meal can also provide the plant with the required nutrients.
Pruning of Brassica strigosa (Thunb.) DC. var. glabrata Sond.
Pruning is not required for Brassica strigosa (Thunb.) DC. var. glabrata Sond. However, removing any yellow or dead leaves can help maintain the plant's health and minimize the risk of fungal growth. Harvesting the mature leaves of the plant should also be done periodically to encourage new growth. Using sterilized scissors or pruning shears can help avoid any damage to the plant.
Propagation of Brassica strigosa var. glabrata
Brassica strigosa var. glabrata Sond. is propagated mainly through seeds. The seeds are small and can be directly sown into the soil or in trays to be transplanted later.
Direct Sowing
The direct sowing method involves sowing seeds directly into the soil where the plant is expected to grow. This method is common for gardeners and farmers who have a large tract of land. The area for direct sowing is prepared by tilling and adding amendments such as compost or aged manure. The seeds are then scattered or sown in rows depending on the preference of the gardener. After sowing, the soil is watered well to ensure that it gets enough moisture for the seeds to germinate.
Transplanting
For growers who want to start their plants indoors, they can opt to use the transplanting method. This approach allows them to start seeds in pots or trays, giving them a good start before they are transplanted in the garden. Planting seeds in trays allows the grower to regulate temperature, light, and moisture, which can be challenging to maintain when seeds are directly sown into the soil.
Transplanting is done when the seedlings have developed enough roots and leaves to be transferred to the garden or larger pots. The transfer is done carefully to avoid disturbing the delicate roots. The soil should be moist before the transplant, and the seedlings should be watered immediately after planting to prevent wilting.
Cutting Propagation
A less common propagation method is through cutting. Cutting propagation is typically reserved for plant varieties where seeds do not germinate, or the germination rate is too low. In this method, a stem or a leaf is cut and then planted in the soil until it forms roots and starts growing. This method requires a good knowledge of plant anatomy and an extensive experience level to perfect the process.
Overall, the propagation of Brassica strigosa var. glabrata is an easy process that requires minimal effort. Proper planting techniques and care guarantee successful propagation, providing a high yield and a healthy addition to the garden or farm.
Disease Management
Brassica strigosa (Thunb.) DC. var. glabrata Sond. is susceptible to various diseases caused by fungi, viruses, and bacteria. The common diseases that affect the plant are:
- Black rot: Caused by Xanthomonas campestris bacteria, this disease affects the leaves, stems, and roots of the plant, causing wilting, yellowing, and dropping of leaves. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected plant parts and avoid overhead irrigation. Copper-based fungicides can also be sprayed on the plants.
- Downy mildew: Caused by Peronospora parasitica fungus, this disease causes yellowing of leaves and a white downy growth on the undersides of leaves. To manage this disease, avoid overhead irrigation, provide proper ventilation, and remove and destroy infected plant parts. Fungicides such as copper-based sprays and chlorothalonil can also be applied.
- Alternaria leaf spot: Caused by Alternaria brassicae fungus, this disease causes circular lesions with yellow halos on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected plant parts, avoid overhead irrigation, and apply fungicides such as azoxystrobin and trifloxystrobin.
Regularly monitoring the plants and maintaining proper hygiene are essential for disease management.
Pest Management
Brassica strigosa (Thunb.) DC. var. glabrata Sond. is also susceptible to various pests such as aphids, caterpillars, and flea beetles. The common pests that affect the plant are:
- Aphids: They suck the sap from the plant, causing the leaves to curl and turn yellow. To manage aphids, remove and destroy the infested parts of the plant and spray water to dislodge them. Insecticidal soap and neem oil can also be used.
- Caterpillars: They feed on the leaves of the plant, causing holes and defoliation. To manage caterpillars, remove and destroy the eggs and larvae, handpick the caterpillars, and apply Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) insecticide.
- Flea beetles: They feed on the leaves, causing small holes and giving a shot-hole appearance to the leaves. To manage flea beetles, apply kaolin clay or spinosad-based insecticides, and cover the plants with row covers.
Regularly monitoring the plants and maintaining proper hygiene are essential for pest management.
