Overview of Crambe tatarica
Crambe tatarica, also known as the Tartary cabbage, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Brassicaceae. It is native to central and western Asia, and can be found growing in regions of Russia, Mongolia, and China. The plant is primarily grown for its edible seeds, but it is also valued for its ornamental qualities.
Appearance of Crambe tatarica
Crambe tatarica is a robust plant that can grow up to 2 meters tall. It has large, lobed leaves that are deeply veined and can reach up to 50 cm in length. The plant produces an abundance of small, white flowers that are clustered in large, showy panicles. The flowers have a sweet fragrance and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The plant blooms from June to July.
Uses of Crambe tatarica
Crambe tatarica is primarily grown for its edible seeds, which are rich in oil and protein. The seeds have a nutty flavor and can be used in cooking and baking, much like sesame seeds. The plant can also be used as a decorative element in gardens and landscapes due to its showy flowers and large leaves. Additionally, the plant has potential for use as a biofuel crop due to the large amount of oil contained in its seeds.
Light Requirements
Crambe tatarica thrives in full sunlight conditions. Therefore, it is recommended to grow the plant in areas with minimal shading to ensure optimal growth. Full sunshine exposure is particularly important during the growing seasons to promote successful bud development and healthy foliage.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Crambe tatarica growth is between 20-30°C. The plant can, however, tolerate lower temperatures of up to -5°C during the dormant season. Cold temperatures can induce dormancy in the plant and impede growth, and it is, therefore, critical to ensure appropriate temperature regulation for maximum productivity.
Soil Requirements
Crambe tatarica can grow in a wide variety of soils, including loamy, sandy, or clay. However, the soil must be well-drained to avoid the development of waterlogged conditions which can lead to root rot. It also thrives in slightly alkaline soils (pH 6-7) and prefers a soil that is moderately fertile and rich in organic matter. It is essential to maintain soil moisture levels to avoid drought or waterlogging, which may affect the growth and yield of the plant.
Cultivation Methods for Crambe Tatarica
Crambe tatarica is a plant that can be propagated both by seeds and by cuttings. The best time to sow seeds is in the late summer or early fall. The seeds should be sown about 1/2 inch deep in well-drained soil. The plants prefer a sunny location but can also tolerate some shade.
Watering Needs for Crambe Tatarica
Crambe tatarica needs regular watering to grow well. However, it is essential not to overwater, as the plant does not like to be in soggy soil. You should water the plant thoroughly, and then wait until the top inch of soil dries out before watering again. The plant will need more water during the hot summer months.
Fertilization of Crambe Tatarica
Crambe tatarica requires fertilization to grow to its full potential. You should fertilize the plant in the early spring, before new growth appears. Use a balanced fertilizer that is low in nitrogen and high in phosphorus and potassium. Too much nitrogen can cause the plant to grow too quickly and become leggy.
Pruning of Crambe Tatarica
Crambe tatarica does not require much pruning, but it is necessary to remove any dead or damaged stems and leaves during the growing season. You can also cut back the plant after it has finished flowering to encourage bushier growth and prevent it from becoming too tall and leggy. It is also important to remove any spent flowers to encourage more blooming.
Propagation of Crambe tatarica
Crambe tatarica, commonly known as Tartary or Alma Crambe, is propagated by seeds and cuttings. The plant produces a taproot that should not be damaged during transplantation.
Propagation by seeds
The seeds of Crambe tatarica should be planted in early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked. The seedlings prefer a bright and warm location, and the soil should be kept moist to promote germination. The germination process usually takes between 2 to 3 weeks.
The seeds should be planted at a depth of 1 cm, and the distance between them should be at least 15 cm. The seedlings should be thinned out to avoid overcrowding, and those that are removed can be transplanted elsewhere.
Propagation by cuttings
Crambe tatarica can also be propagated by cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from the plant in early to mid-summer when the plant is actively growing.
The cuttings should be 10 to 15 cm long and should be taken from the softwood. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in hormone powder to stimulate rooting.
The cuttings should then be planted in pots filled with rooting medium and placed in a bright location. The soil should be kept moist, and the plant should be protected from direct sunlight. The cutting usually develops roots in about 4 to 6 weeks, and it can be transplanted to the desired location.
Disease and Pest Management of Crambe tatarica
Crambe tatarica, commonly known as Tartary or Siberian kale, is a hardy plant that requires minimal maintenance. However, like any other plant, it is susceptible to diseases and pests that can affect its yield. Below are some common diseases and pests that might affect Crambe tatarica and how to manage them:
Common Diseases
Clubroot: Clubroot is a fungal disease that can affect Crambe tatarica. The disease causes the roots to swell, turn brown, and eventually rot. To manage clubroot, avoid planting Crambe tatarica in soils that have previously hosted the disease. Also, ensure that the soil is well-drained and add lime to increase soil pH.
Alternaria leaf spot: Alternaria leaf spot is a fungal disease that can cause the leaves to develop circular brown spots. To manage the disease, remove infected leaves and destroy them. Also, ensure that the plant has good air circulation, and avoid watering the foliage.
Downy mildew: Downy mildew is a fungal disease that can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves. To manage the disease, remove infected leaves and ensure that the plant has good air circulation and proper drainage.
Common Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small insect pests that can suck the sap from Crambe tatarica, causing the leaves to curl and yellow. To manage aphids, you can remove them by hand or spray the plant with insecticidal soap.
Cabbage loopers: Cabbage loopers are caterpillar pests that can cause damage to the plant by feeding on the foliage. To manage cabbage loopers, you can handpick them off or use Bacillus thuringiensis, a natural bacteria that is effective in controlling the pest.
Slugs: Slugs are common pests that can cause extensive damage to Crambe tatarica by feeding on the foliage. To manage slugs, you can attract their natural predators like birds by providing bird feeders. Also, you can set up beer traps or sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the plant.
Overall, proper cultivation practices such as maintaining good soil drainage, crop rotation, and weed control can prevent and manage most diseases and pests that might affect Crambe tatarica.
