Overview of Cleome L.
Cleome L. is a genus of flowering plants in the family Cleomaceae, native to tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. The plants are commonly referred to as spider flowers, spider plants, or grandfather's whiskers due to their unique and distinctive appearance.
Appearance of Cleome L.
Cleome L. plants are characterized by their long, slender stems and clusters of vibrant flowers. The flowers typically have four petals and are available in a range of colors, including pink, white, purple, and yellow. The leaves are compound and have serrated edges.
Uses of Cleome L.
Cleome L. plants are primarily grown for their ornamental value and are popular for use in mixed borders, cottage gardens, and as cut flowers. In addition to their aesthetic appeal, some species of Cleome L. are also used in traditional medicine. For example, Cleome gynandra has been used in African traditional medicine for the treatment of various ailments such as malaria, jaundice, and hypertension.
Light Requirements:
Cleome L., commonly known as spider flower, requires plenty of bright sunlight to grow and thrive. The minimum amount of light required for spider flowers to grow is six hours of direct sunlight each day. They can be grown in partial shade, but the plants will not be as tall, and the flowers will be fewer and smaller.
Temperature Requirements:
Cleome L. plants thrive best in warm weather. They are classified as perennial plants and will continue to grow for many years in warm regions. The ideal temperature range for growing spider flowers is between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate cooler temperatures as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit but prefer to have warmer temperatures to grow and flower.
Soil Requirements:
Cleome L. plants prefer well-draining soil that is fertile and rich in nutrients. They do not do well in waterlogged soils, which can result in root rot and other fungal diseases. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH range of 6.0 to 6.5. Spider flowers can tolerate slightly alkaline soils with a pH of up to 7.5 but will not prosper in heavy clay soils.
Cultivation Methods
Cleome L., also known as spider flower, is an annual flowering plant that is relatively easy to cultivate. It thrives in full sun, in well-draining soils that are slightly acidic with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 6.5. Cleome L. is tolerant of hot and dry conditions, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor cultivation.
To cultivate Cleome L., start by sowing the seeds in the spring, after the last frost of the season. Plant the seeds at least 1/4 inch deep and cover the soil lightly. The seeds should germinate within 10 to 14 days when the soil temperature is between 21°C to 26°C. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, during the germination period.
Watering Needs
Spider flowers generally require moderate watering regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The frequency of watering largely depends on the temperature, humidity, and soil type. Overwatering the plant can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases, so ensure that drainage is good.
To achieve optimal watering, water the plant in the early mornings when the temperatures are cooler. Applying water to the soil surface and not the plant leaves will help prevent leaf burn and fungal growth. When watering spider flowers in pots, check the drainage holes to ensure that excess water drains out.
Fertilization
To ensure that the spider flower thrives and blooms for an extended period, fertilization is critical. Apply a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10:10:10 every two weeks during the growing season. Inorganic fertilizers will produce a more prolific bloom than organic fertilizers.
Ensure that you follow the manufacturer's instructions to prevent overfertilization and toxicity of the plant's roots. Overfertilizing the plant can lead to the death of the plant's root system.
Pruning
Pruning Spider flowers is important to promote bushier growth, better airflow, and increased blooming. It also helps to remove dead and diseased foliage from the plant. Prune the plant growth tip, from 4-6 inches from the top, after the first bloom to improve secondary blooming.
Spider flowers usually take a break in their blooming cycle between seasons, so prune the plant after the last bloom of the season in preparation for the offseason. Prune the plant removal of all aerial foliage, leaving only stems sticking out of the ground. This will help the plant focus its stored energy on growing and blooming the following year.
Propagation of Cleome L.
Cleome L., commonly known as spider plant or spider flower, is usually propagated by seeds. The plant produces plenty of seeds that can be collected and planted to create new specimens. However, some gardeners may also propagate Cleome L. through cuttings or division.
Seed Propagation
To propagate Cleome L. using seeds, the first step is to collect mature seedpods after the flowers have bloomed and the pods have dried. The pods will rattle, indicating that the seeds are ready to be collected. Once collected, the pods should be cracked open, and the seeds should be collected for planting.
Cleome L. seeds are best sown outdoors in spring or early summer, preferably after the last frost. The seeds should be scattered on well-prepared soil and covered with a thin layer of soil. Water the soil gently and keep it moist until the seeds germinate, which usually happens within two to three weeks.
Seedlings should be thinned out to avoid overcrowding once they are large enough to handle. Allow the remaining seedlings a spacing of at least 30cm apart to give them enough room to grow and develop.
Cutting Propagation
The stem cuttings of Cleome L. can be used for propagation during the growing season. The cuttings should be taken from the tip of the stem, with a minimum length of 10cm. Cut off the leaves from the lower one-third of the cutting, leaving only a few leaves at the top.
The cuttings should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist until they develop roots, which usually takes two to three weeks. Once the cutting is established, it should be transplanted to a larger pot or outdoors after the last frost.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is a method used to propagate mature plants and enhance their growth. Cleome L. plants can be divided in the spring or fall, in the same way as other perennials.
To divide the plant, carefully dig up the root ball. The plant should be gently teased apart into several clumps using a garden fork or sharp knife, making sure that each clump has healthy roots and growth buds. These clumps can be planted into the ground, or in pots with suitable soil, compost, and nutrients.
In conclusion, Cleome L. can be propagated by seeds, cuttings, or division. Choose the propagation method that suits your planting scheme and preference.
Disease Management
Cleome L. is generally a hardy plant but can be susceptible to certain diseases if not cared for properly. The most common diseases that affect Cleome L. are powdery mildew and rust. Powdery mildew is characterized by a white, powdery coating that appears on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. Rust is identified by small, rusty-colored spots that appear on the leaves.
To manage powdery mildew, ensure that the plant is placed in a location with good air circulation. Water the plant at the base to avoid wetting the leaves and remove any infected foliage. If necessary, apply a fungicide, following instructions carefully.
Rust is best managed through the removal of infected plant parts and increased air circulation. Remove any infected leaves and ensure that the plant is not overcrowded with other plants. If necessary, apply a fungicide, following instructions carefully.
Pest Management
Cleome L. can also fall victim to several pests, including spider mites and aphids. Spider mites are tiny, spider-like pests that feed on the underside of leaves and can cause discoloration and distortion of the foliage. Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that feed on the sap of the plant and can cause wilting, stunted growth, and yellowing of leaves.
To manage spider mites, regularly check the plant for infestations and remove any affected leaves. Keep the plant well-watered and increase humidity in the surrounding area. If necessary, apply a miticide, following instructions carefully.
Aphids can be managed through the removal of affected foliage and the utilization of natural predators, such as ladybugs. Prune the plant regularly and keep it well-watered to avoid dehydration, which can attract pests. In severe cases, apply an insecticide, following instructions carefully.
