Overview
Chrysanthemum coronarium L. var. coronarium is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. This plant is commonly known as garland chrysanthemum, chrysanthemum greens, crown daisy, and edible chrysanthemum. It is widely cultivated in China, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia for its culinary and medicinal uses.
Description
Chrysanthemum coronarium L. var. coronarium is an annual or biennial plant that grows up to 100 cm in height. It has a branching stem and leaves that are alternate, lobed, and toothed. The flowers are small and yellow, with a diameter of 1.5-2 cm. The plant blooms from late summer to fall and produces numerous flower heads that resemble daisies.
Uses
Garland chrysanthemum has various culinary uses. The young leaves and stems are commonly used in salads, stir-fries, soups, and stews. In China, Chrysanthemum coronarium L. var. coronarium is used as a medicinal herb to treat respiratory diseases, fever, headache, and high blood pressure. The plant contains flavonoids, polysaccharides, and triterpenoids that exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiviral properties.
In Japan, garland chrysanthemum is known as shungiku and is a popular ingredient in nabemono (Japanese hot pot dishes). The plant is also used as a garnish and seasoning. In Korea, Chrysanthemum coronarium L. var. coronarium is known as ssukgat and is used in traditional soups, stews, and side dishes. The leaves and flowers are soaked in saltwater and used to add flavor and color to food.
Cultivation
Chrysanthemum coronarium L. var. coronarium is a hardy plant that grows well in well-drained soil with full sun exposure. The plant can be propagated from seeds, cuttings, or divisions. The best time to sow the seeds is in early spring or late summer. Garland chrysanthemum is relatively easy to maintain and does not require much fertilizer or watering. The plant can be harvested when the leaves and stems are young and tender, usually 30-40 days after sowing.
Light Requirements
The Chrysanthemum coronarium L. var. coronarium plant requires full sun to grow and flower properly. This plant species thrives in direct sunlight and needs at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Without sufficient sunlight exposure, the plant will fail to bloom properly and may become leggy, weak, and susceptible to pests and diseases.
Temperature Requirements
The Chrysanthemum coronarium L. var. coronarium plant requires moderate temperatures to grow optimally. This plant species demands temperatures between 60°F to 75°F, with nighttime temperatures that do not drop below 50°F. Temperatures below this range can cause the plant to become stunted and may affect the flowering process.
Soil Requirements
The Chrysanthemum coronarium L. var. coronarium plant requires well-drained and fertile soil to grow optimally. A pH range between 6.0 to 7.5 is best suited for this plant species. The plant grows well in sandy loam to loamy soil textures, provided they are rich in organic matter and nutrients. This plant species also prefers soil that retains moisture, but not waterlogged soil. Overwatering or underwatering can cause root rot and affect plant growth.
Cultivation Methods
Chrysanthemum coronarium L. var. coronarium is a hardy plant that is relatively easy to grow. It is best to grow this plant from seed, which can be sown directly into the soil in the spring after the last frost. The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter, and the seeds should be sown in rows that are spaced about 10 inches apart. Once the seeds have germinated and the seedlings have grown to a height of about 4 inches, they can be thinned out so that they are spaced about 6 inches apart.
Watering Needs
Chrysanthemum coronarium L. var. coronarium is a plant that requires moderate watering. It is important to make sure that the soil is kept moist, but not wet, as too much water can lead to root rot. The plant should be watered deeply once a week, or more frequently during periods of drought. It is best to water the plant in the morning, so that any excess moisture can evaporate during the day and prevent the spread of fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Chrysanthemum coronarium L. var. coronarium is a plant that benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced fertilizer, with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, can be applied every two weeks during the growing season. It is important to follow the directions on the fertilizer package, as too much fertilizer can burn the roots and damage the plant. Organic fertilizers, such as compost or manure, can also be used to provide nutrients to the soil.
Pruning
Chrysanthemum coronarium L. var. coronarium is a plant that benefits from regular pruning. Pinching back the tips of the stems can encourage bushier growth and more flowers. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, can also encourage the plant to produce more blossoms. Pruning should be done in the early spring, before new growth begins, and in the fall, after the plant has finished blooming. It is important to use clean, sharp tools to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Chrysanthemum coronarium L. var. coronarium
Chrysanthemum coronarium L. var. coronarium is commonly known as garland chrysanthemum. This herbaceous plant is a favorite among vegetable growers because of its edible leaves and shoots. Propagation of garland chrysanthemum is usually done through seeds or cuttings.
Seeds
Seeds are the most common method of garland chrysanthemum propagation. Collect the seeds from the plant in late summer or fall. The seeds are small, flat, and slightly curved. Sow the seeds in well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and keep the soil moist. Germination usually takes two to three weeks.
Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is faster and easier than propagation through seeds. Use a sharp, sterilized knife to take stem cuttings from a healthy garland chrysanthemum plant. Cuttings should be two to three inches long and should have at least two sets of leaves. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil that is moist. Keep the soil consistently moist and the cuttings will root and begin growing in about two weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Chrysanthemum coronarium L. var. coronarium
Chrysanthemum coronarium L. var. coronarium, commonly known as garland chrysanthemum, is a popular leafy vegetable crop grown in several countries. Like any other plant, garland chrysanthemum is also susceptible to several diseases and pests that can cause significant damage to the crop. Therefore, it is essential to understand the common diseases and pests that affect garland chrysanthemum and adopt suitable management practices to ensure healthy plant growth.
Common Diseases
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a common disease of garland chrysanthemum, caused by the fungal pathogen Cercospora sp. Symptoms of the disease include the appearance of small, circular, brownish spots on the leaves, which later turn yellow and fall off. Fungicide application, crop rotation, and sanitation are effective management strategies for controlling leaf spot in garland chrysanthemum.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew, caused by the fungus Erysiphe cichoracearum, is another fungal disease that affects garland chrysanthemum. Symptoms of the disease include the appearance of white, powdery spots on the leaves and stems. Regular fungicide application, removal of infected plants, and proper plant spacing are effective management strategies for powdery mildew in garland chrysanthemum.
Root Rot: Root rot is a soil-borne disease caused by various fungal pathogens that affect garland chrysanthemum. Symptoms of the disease include wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth of the plant. Crop rotation, proper drainage, and avoiding overwatering are effective management strategies for controlling root rot in garland chrysanthemum.
Common Pests
Aphids: Aphids are common pests that affect garland chrysanthemum. The insects suck the sap from the leaves and stems, causing yellowing and deformation of the plant. Regular application of insecticidal soap or neem oil is an effective management strategy for controlling aphids in garland chrysanthemum.
Thrips: Thrips are tiny insects that feed on the leaves and flowers of garland chrysanthemum. They cause yellowing of the leaves, discoloration of flowers, and deformation of the plant. Insecticidal soap or neem oil application, regular pruning, and proper plant spacing are effective management strategies for controlling thrips in garland chrysanthemum.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are small pests that attack garland chrysanthemum, causing yellowing and browning of the leaves. They also spin webs on the leaves, making them look unsightly. Regular water spray on the infested plants, and the application of insecticidal soap or neem oil can help manage spider mites in garland chrysanthemum.
In conclusion, the management strategies for diseases and pests of garland chrysanthemum involve both cultural and chemical practices. Proper plant care, regular monitoring, early detection and the application of suitable control measures, when necessary, are essential for healthy plant growth and high yields.
