Origin
Braya humilis var. laurentiana, also known as Laurentian braya, is a small flowering plant that is native to Arctic regions of North America such as northern Quebec, Labrador, and Baffin Island.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known by several other names, including Arctic mustard, small-flowered braya, and Laurentian mustard.
Uses
In traditional Inuit medicine, various parts of the plant have been used to treat respiratory conditions such as bronchitis and pneumonia. The plant has also been used as a food source by the Inuit people, who eat the leaves, roots, and stems raw or cooked.
General Appearance
The Laurentian braya is an herbaceous perennial that grows low to the ground, measuring only about 5-10 cm in height. Its leaves are small and oval-shaped, and it produces clusters of white, four-petaled flowers in the summer. The plant prefers to grow in gravelly or rocky soil and is adapted to cold, Arctic environments.
Light Requirements
The Braya humilis var. laurentiana thrives in an environment with full exposure to sunlight. It requires at least six hours of sunlight per day to ensure healthy growth and development. The plant also prefers an area with partial shade, especially in hot and dry areas, to avoid dehydration and sunburn.
Temperature Requirements
The plant typically grows in a subarctic environment with cool to cold temperatures. The Braya humilis var. laurentiana can tolerate temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F) and prefers a temperature range of 5-18°C (41-64°F). It is susceptible to heat and prefers a cooler environment even when exposed to sunlight.
Soil Requirements
The Braya humilis var. laurentiana requires well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients, but not high in acidity. The pH should be between 6.0 and 7.5 to encourage healthy growth. The plant prefers well-aerated soil that is loose and not compact. It can tolerate sandy or clay soils, but it is crucial to ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging.
Cultivation methods
Braya humilis (C.A. Mey.) B.L. Robins. var. laurentiana (Böcher) Boivin, commonly called Laurentian Mountain Cabbage, is a hardy perennial plant that is native to the Arctic regions of Canada. It grows best in well-draining soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. The plant prefers moist soil and full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade.
Watering needs
The watering needs of this plant depend on the soil conditions, temperature, and humidity. It is important to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. During the summer growing season, the plant requires frequent watering, especially during hot and dry weather. In the winter, the plant requires less watering but make sure the soil does not dry out completely.
Fertilization
Braya humilis (C.A. Mey.) B.L. Robins. var. laurentiana (Böcher) Boivin does not require heavy fertilization, but the addition of organic matter such as compost, manure, or leaf mold can help to improve the soil quality. Fertilize the plant once every three months during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer that is higher in nitrogen.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Braya humilis (C.A. Mey.) B.L. Robins. var. laurentiana (Böcher) Boivin. However, removing any dead or damaged foliage can help to improve the appearance of the plant and prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation of Braya humilis var. laurentiana
Braya humilis var. laurentiana is a low-growing, perennial plant species native to the Arctic regions of North America. The plant has a relatively slow growth rate, and it can take several years for Braya humilis var. laurentiana to establish a robust root system and produce healthy foliage. Propagation of this species can be achieved through the following methods:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method used to propagate Braya humilis var. laurentiana. To propagate the plant by seed, collect mature seeds from the parent plant during the fall season when the seedpods are dry and can easily be harvested. Surface sow the seeds on a prepared seedbed, ensuring that the seeds are pressed into the soil but not buried too deep. Water the soil regularly to keep it moist and protect the seedbed with a layer of mulch to help maintain consistent moisture levels. Germination typically occurs within four to six weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted to their permanent location when they are large enough to handle.
Vegetative Propagation
Braya humilis var. laurentiana can also be propagated through vegetative means. This method of propagation involves taking cuttings from the parent plant and rooting them to establish new plant clones. The best time to take cuttings is during the spring when the plant begins to produce new growth. Cuttings should be taken from the outer edges of the plant to ensure that they contain healthy tissue. Dip the cut ends of the cuttings in a rooting hormone and plant them in a rooting medium such as perlite or sand. Keep the cuttings moist and protected from excessive heat and sunlight until they develop strong roots and can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Division
Division is another method of propagating Braya humilis var. laurentiana. This method involves dividing the parent plant into smaller sections, each of which can be transplanted to create new, independent plants. Division should only be attempted on mature plants that have established a strong root system, typically after several years of growth. Carefully dig up the parent plant and separate the root ball into individual sections, ensuring that each section has adequate roots and foliage. Replant the divided sections in a prepared bed with plenty of organic matter to encourage vigorous growth and establishment.
Disease Management
Braya humilis var. laurentiana, commonly known as Laurentian Mountain arctic, is susceptible to fungal infections such as rust, powdery mildew and leaf spot diseases. Rust causes small yellow to brown rust spots on the leaves, which may eventually turn black and cause defoliation. Powdery mildew appears as a white powdery layer on the foliage, causing deformation and death of the leaves. Leaf spot disease shows up as small, dark spots on the leaves, which gradually get bigger and cause the leaves to fall prematurely.
To manage these fungal diseases, it is crucial to practice good crop hygiene, starting from planting disease-free seeds. Regularly inspect the crop for signs of infection. Remove and destroy infected plant debris and provide adequate drainage. Fungicidal sprays can be used as a preventative measure or when the infection is in its early stages.
Pest Management
Laurentian Mountain arctic is also vulnerable to insect pests such as aphids, caterpillars and weevils. Aphids suck the sap from the plant and cause deformation and discoloration of the leaves. Caterpillars chew on the foliage and cause defoliation, and the Arctic root weevil feeds on the root system of the plant, affecting its growth and development.
To manage these pests, it is important to monitor the crop regularly for signs of infestation. Biological control can be used to manage aphids by introducing natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings. Handpicking caterpillars may be effective in small scale farming. Systemic insecticides can be used to kill the Arctic root weevil. However, it is important to ensure that the chemical chosen is safe for the environment and does not harm beneficial insects.
