Overview of Convolvulus tomentellus Greene
Convolvulus tomentellus Greene is a native plant of North America, specifically California. It belongs to the family of Convolvulaceae and is commonly known as woolly morning glory because of its hairy foliage.
Appearance of Convolvulus tomentellus Greene
This hardy perennial plant grows up to 4 – 12 inches tall and spreads up to 2 ft wide. Its leaves are about 1 – 2 inches long and are densely covered with white woolly hairs. The flowers of this plant are funnel-shaped and pinkish-purple in color.
Uses of Convolvulus tomentellus Greene
Convolvulus tomentellus Greene is a great plant for ground cover, and it is also often used for erosion control. It can be planted in rock gardens, borders, and along paths. The woolly leaves of this plant deter grazing animals, making it an excellent addition to gardens located in areas with wildlife.
In traditional medicine, Convolvulus tomentellus Greene has been used as an herbal remedy for ailments like headaches, coughs, and fever.
Overall, Convolvulus tomentellus Greene is a beautiful and versatile plant that adds a unique look to any garden.
Light Requirements
Convolvulus tomentellus Greene thrive in full sunlight and prefer to receive at least six hours of direct sun per day. Shaded locations may cause the plant to grow weak and have smaller output.
Soil Requirements
Convolvulus tomentellus Greene tend to grow vegetation in lean soil that drains well. The plant thrives in a mixture of sand and loam. Highly fertile soils may promote leaf growth while inhibiting flower development.
Temperature Requirements
Convolvulus tomentellus Greene is known to be a heat-loving plant and thrives in warmer climates. However, this plant can tolerate temperatures as low as below freezing. Temperatures ranging between 50-90 °F (10-32°C) are ideal for the optimal growth and development of the plant. If the temperatures exceed 90°F (32°C), the plant may require additional water to avoid dehydration.
Cultivation Methods of Convolvulus tomentellus Greene
The Convolvulus tomentellus Greene plant grows well in well-drained soil that’s fertile and rich in humus. It also needs warm temperatures to thrive, so it’s best to plant it in areas with warm climates devoid of frost. The best time to plant Convolvulus tomentellus Greene is during the spring season. Germination usually takes place in 10 to 14 days, and the plant starts to bloom in summer.
Watering Needs of Convolvulus tomentellus Greene
The Convolvulus tomentellus Greene plant requires moderate watering, especially during its growing season. It’s best to avoid overwatering the plant, as it can cause the roots to rot and damage the plant's overall growth. It’s recommended to water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry. Young plants need more water compared to matured ones.
Fertilization of Convolvulus tomentellus Greene
Fertilization is essential for the Convolvulus tomentellus Greene plant to have sufficient nutrients for proper growth and blooming. The best time to fertilize is in the early spring. You can use a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10 or 8-8-8 at a rate of 1/4 pound per 100 square feet. It’s also essential to apply fertilizer at the plant's base rather than on the leaves.
Pruning of Convolvulus tomentellus Greene
Pruning helps to maintain and shape the Convolvulus tomentellus Greene plant. It’s best to prune the plant after it finishes blooming in summer. Cut back the stems by 1/3 to 1/2 of the plant's height, and remove any dead or diseased stems. Pruning helps to stimulate new growth and increase the number of blooms produced by the plant.
Propagation of Convolvulus tomentellus Greene
Convolvulus tomentellus Greene, commonly known as woolly morning glory or woolly bindweed, is a perennial herb that grows in dry and rocky places. It is native to western North America, including regions like California, Arizona, and Nevada.
Propagation Methods
There are two main methods for propagating Convolvulus tomentellus Greene:
1. Seeds
The first method is through seeds. The plant produces seeds within its small fruit capsules, which typically have two or more seeds each. To propagate the plant through seeds, follow these steps:
- Collect the fruit capsules once they have turned brown and dry.
- Remove the seeds from the capsules.
- Plant the seeds in well-draining soil in the fall or spring when temperatures are mild.
- Water the seeds regularly, ensuring the soil stays consistently moist.
- The seeds will typically germinate within a couple of weeks, and the plant will start to grow.
2. Cuttings
The second method for propagating Convolvulus tomentellus Greene is through stem cuttings. This method is a bit more difficult than using seeds, but it can be more effective at producing a clone of the exact plant you want to propagate. Here's how to propagate Convolvulus tomentellus Greene using stem cuttings:
- Take a stem cutting from a healthy, mature plant. The cutting should be about 4-6 inches long and have a few leaves on it.
- Remove the lower leaves from the cutting, leaving only a few at the top.
- Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone.
- Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring it is kept moist but not overly wet.
- Place a plastic bag or dome over the cutting to maintain humidity and warmth.
- Once the cutting shows new growth, it can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the garden.
Propagation of Convolvulus tomentellus Greene can be a rewarding process, allowing you to expand your garden or share the plant with others. Whichever method you choose, ensure you are propagating the plant responsibly and within legal regulations in your area.
Disease Management
Convolvulus tomentellus Greene, commonly known as woolly morning glory, is susceptible to several fungal and bacterial diseases. Some common diseases that affect this plant include:
- Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that causes the leaves and stems to develop dark, sunken lesions. It eventually causes the leaves to drop and weaken the entire plant. To manage this disease, remove all affected plant parts and apply a fungicide.
- Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease characterized by the white, powdery coating that appears on the leaves. It weakens the plant and reduces its productivity. To manage this disease, maintain proper air circulation by pruning and thinning the plant, and apply a fungicide.
- Bacterial wilt: This is a bacterial disease characterized by yellowing of leaves, wilting, and plant death. To manage this disease, remove all affected plant parts and apply a bactericide.
Pest Management
Convolvulus tomentellus Greene can also be attacked by several pests. Some common pests that affect this plant include:
- Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing it to wilt and yellow. To manage aphids, remove them by hand or spray the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: These are tiny, eight-legged pests that cause yellowing and wilting of leaves. They are common in hot and dry conditions. To manage spider mites, increase the humidity around the plant by misting it regularly and spray it with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
- Vine weevils: These are beetles that feed on the roots of the plant, causing stunted growth and plant death. To manage vine weevils, remove them by hand or apply a pesticide to the soil.
