Introduction
Braya novae-angliae (Rydb.) Sorensen var. interior Böcher, also known as the inland northern rockcress, is a small, herbaceous plant that is native to the Arctic regions of North America and Greenland. It belongs to the Brassicaceae family, which includes many important food crops such as cabbage, broccoli, and mustard.Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the inland northern rockcress, Arctic rockcress, or interior rockcress. In some communities in the Arctic regions of North America, it is also known by the Inuit name, "ukaliq".Appearance
The inland northern rockcress is a low-growing, perennial plant that typically grows to a height of 5-15 cm. It has a woody taproot, and its leaves are small, linear, and glossy green in color. The flowers are white and are borne on erect stems that arise from the center of the plant. The plant blooms from May to July, and the fruits are long, slender pods that contain many small, black seeds.Uses
Traditionally, the Inuit people have used the roots of the inland northern rockcress to treat respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis and tuberculosis. The plant has also been used as a food source by the Inuit people. The plant is edible, and its leaves and flowers are said to have a spicy, mustard-like flavor. However, the plant is not commonly used as a food source today. In recent years, the inland northern rockcress has become of interest to researchers because of its potential as a source of bioactive compounds. The plant contains several compounds that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it a possible candidate for use in pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals.Light Requirements
Braya novae-angliae (Rydb.) Sorensen var. interior Böcher thrives well in direct sunlight and requires exposure to at least 6 hours of sunlight each day. Therefore, it is best to place the plant on a windowsill or in a location with full exposure to sunlight. However, it is important to prevent the plant from being exposed to direct sunlight for an extended period, as it might cause the leaves to become damaged.
Temperature Requirements
Braya novae-angliae (Rydb.) Sorensen var. interior Böcher prefers a cool and moist environment, with an ideal temperature range between 10°C and 20°C (50°F and 68°F). Temperatures above 25°C (77°F) are detrimental to the plant's growth and development, and it can result in dehydration, and in severe cases, death. Therefore, it is crucial to keep the plant in a location with a cool temperature, avoiding exposure to high temperatures and direct sunlight.
Soil Requirements
The Braya novae-angliae (Rydb.) Sorensen var. interior Böcher thrives in well-draining, nutrient-rich soils with a pH range between 5.0 and 6.5. The perfect soil composition for its growth includes sand, perlite, and sphagnum peat moss, which provide good aeration, drainage, and nutrient retention. It is essential to keep the soil moist, but not soggy, as excess moisture can result in root rot, which is detrimental to the plant's growth. Additionally, fertilizing the plant with a complete fertilizer once or twice a month can help to enhance its growth and encourage the production of blooms.
Cultivation Methods
The Braya novae-angliae (Rydb.) Sorensen var. interior Böcher, commonly known as the interior dwarf northern bog-cress, is a hardy perennial plant that grows well in damp and boggy soils. It prefers full sun to partial shade and is suitable for zones 1 to 7.
To cultivate this plant, you need to start by preparing the soil. Choose a spot with damp and boggy soil, dig a hole to the size of the plant's root ball, add compost to the soil and place the plant in the hole. Water thoroughly and firm the soil around the plant.
Watering Needs
Braya novae-angliae requires moist soil that is never water-logged. During the growing season, you should water the plant regularly, especially in dry weather to keep the soil moist. However, avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot and various fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Fertilizing your Braya novae-angliae is not necessary since it grows well in nutrient-poor soils. However, you can add a slow-release fertilizer during the planting season to boost growth if necessary. Spread the fertilizer evenly on the soil surface, and water it in well.
Pruning
Pruning your Braya novae-angliae is not necessary, but you can remove any yellow or brown leaves to maintain its appearance. These diseased or damaged leaves can become a medium for pests and diseases. Additionally, pruning can encourage the growth of new, healthy leaves and maintain the plant's shape.
Propagation of Braya novae-angliae var. interior
Propagation of Braya novae-angliae var. interior can be achieved through seed germination or vegetative propagation.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the easiest and most common method of propagating Braya novae-angliae var. interior. Seeds should be fresh and sown in well-draining soil in the early spring. The seeds should be lightly covered with soil and kept moist until they germinate. Germination typically occurs within 15-30 days.
Once the seedlings have grown to a sufficient size, they can be transplanted into individual pots or a larger container. They should be kept in a cool and bright location before being transplanted into the garden.
Vegetative propagation
Vegetative propagation is a more challenging method of propagating Braya novae-angliae var. interior. It involves taking stem cuttings or dividing the plant. Cuttings should be taken in the early summer and placed in a rooting hormone before being planted in a well-draining soil. They should be kept moist and in a bright location to promote root growth.
Dividing the plant should be done in the spring or early fall. The plant should be carefully dug up and the root ball divided into smaller sections. The divided sections should be replanted immediately and kept well-watered until they have established in their new location.
Disease Management
Braya novae-angliae (Rydb.) Sorensen var. interior Böcher is susceptible to several diseases, including:
- Black Spot: This fungal disease causes black spots on the leaves and stems of the plant, eventually leading to defoliation. To manage black spot, remove and destroy infected plant parts and apply a copper-based fungicide.
- Clubroot: This soil-borne disease causes wilting, stunting, and yellowing of the plant. The roots may also become swollen and distorted. To manage clubroot, avoid planting in infected soil and remove and destroy infected plants. Apply lime to raise the soil pH.
- Pythium Root Rot: This soil-borne fungus causes root rot and can quickly kill the plant. To manage pythium root rot, avoid overwatering and planting in poorly drained soil. Apply a fungicide containing mefenoxam.
Pest Management
Braya novae-angliae (Rydb.) Sorensen var. interior Böcher is also susceptible to several pests, including:
- Leaf Miners: These insects lay eggs on the leaves, and the larvae tunnel through the leaf tissue. This can cause extensive damage to the plant. To manage leaf miners, remove and destroy affected leaves and apply an insecticide containing spinosad.
- Cabbage Worms: These caterpillars feed on the leaves of the plant and can skeletonize them. To manage cabbage worms, handpick them off the plant and apply an insecticide containing Bacillus thuringiensis.
It's important to monitor plants regularly for signs of disease or pest infestation and take action promptly to manage the problem. Practice good sanitation practices by removing and destroying infected or infested plant material to prevent the spread of disease or pests.
