Origin and Common Names
Delosperma guthriei Lavis is a small, succulent plant native to South Africa. It is also known by several common names such as Hardy Ice Plant, Red Mountain Ice Plant, and Guthrie's Delosperma.
Appearance
The Delosperma guthriei Lavis plant has small, succulent leaves that form a mat-like ground cover. The leaves are wedge-shaped and can range in color from blue-green to reddish-purple. The plant produces small, daisy-like flowers that are red in color and bloom from mid-spring to early summer. The plant's growth habit is low and spreading, making it an excellent choice for ground cover.
Uses
The Delosperma guthriei Lavis plant is often used as a ground cover in xeriscapes and rock gardens. It is also an excellent choice for erosion control due to its spreading growth habit and drought tolerance. In addition, the plant is sometimes used in traditional South African medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Light Requirements
The plant Delosperma guthriei Lavis prefers full sun exposure to partial shade. It is commonly grown in areas with direct exposure to sunlight; however, it can also grow in shaded areas as long as its sunlight requirement is met. Insufficient sunlight can cause the plant to grow poorly and produce fewer blooms.
Temperature Requirements
The Delosperma guthriei Lavis can tolerate temperature changes and can grow in various climatic conditions. However, it is important to note that it prefers warm temperatures and can only tolerate light frost conditions. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit (20 to 30 degrees Celsius).
Soil Requirements
The Delosperma guthriei Lavis can grow in various types of well-draining soil but prefers sandy or loamy soil. It is important to avoid dense soils that can lead to poor drainage. You can improve the drainage of the soil by adding organic matter such as compost, perlite, or sand. A soil pH between 6.5 to 7.5 is also ideal for the growth of this plant.
Cultivation Methods
Delosperma guthriei is a succulent plant that grows best in hot, dry, and sunny areas. It prefers well-drained soils and can easily rot if planted in waterlogged soils. The plant needs to be protected from frost, especially during the winter months. If cultivated in areas with cold winters, it is best to plant the succulent in containers and bring them indoors during the colder months.
Watering Needs
The plant does not require frequent watering, but it should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season. It is essential to allow the soil to dry out between watering, as overwatering may cause the plant to rot. During the winter, the watering should be reduced to once a month, depending on the humidity level in the environment.
Fertilization
Delosperma guthriei does not require frequent fertilization, particularly when grown in rich soil. Applying a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season is sufficient to sustain the plant's growth. It is best to avoid fertilizing the plant during winter months as it is not actively growing.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Delosperma guthriei; however, deadheading the flowers will prolong the flowering period and improve the plant's appearance. The plant's stems may trail beyond its container or location in the garden, but they can be trimmed or pruned to keep it within the desired space. Trimming or pruning should be done in early spring before active growth resumes.
Propagation of Delosperma guthriei Lavis
Delosperma guthriei Lavis, also known as Hardy Ice Plant or Red Mountain Ice Plant, is a succulent plant that is native to South Africa. It is a low-growing, mat-forming plant that produces masses of bright pink to reddish-purple flowers in the summer. Propagation of Delosperma guthriei Lavis can be done through seeds or cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
The easiest way to propagate Delosperma guthriei Lavis is by seeds. Seeds can be planted indoors or outdoors depending on the climate. In areas with mild winters, seeds can be sown outdoors in autumn or winter. In colder climates, seeds should be sown indoors in early spring.
To start sowing the seeds, the soil should be well-draining with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. It is recommended to mix sand and vermiculite to the soil to promote drainage. Sow the seeds on top of the soil and cover them with a thin layer of vermiculite. Water the soil until it is moist but not over-saturated. Place the pot or container in a sunny location, and the seeds should germinate in two to three weeks.
Once the seedlings are big enough, they can be transplanted into individual pots or containers. After a few weeks, the plants can be planted in their permanent location, where they can grow and spread.
Propagation by Cuttings
The second method of propagating Delosperma guthriei Lavis is through cuttings. This method requires a bit more skill and care but can be successful with proper technique. The best time to take cuttings is in the late spring or early summer when the plant is in full growth.
Choose a healthy stem from the mother plant with at least two sets of leaves. Cut the stem with a sharp and clean pair of scissors. Remove the lower sets of leaves, leaving only two sets at the top. Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone, which can be purchased from a garden center.
Fill the pot or container with well-draining soil mixed with sand and vermiculite. Make a hole in the soil with a pencil and insert the cutting, making sure that only the two sets of leaves are above the soil level. Water the soil well, and place the pot or container in a bright, shaded location. The cuttings should root in six to eight weeks. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted into individual pots or containers and grown until they are ready to be planted in their permanent location.
Propagation of Delosperma guthriei Lavis can be done through seeds or cuttings. Both methods can be successful with proper technique and care. With enough propagation, this beautiful succulent plant can create a vibrant, colorful display in any garden or landscape.
Disease Management
Delosperma guthriei Lavis is generally a disease-resistant plant, but some diseases can still affect it. The common diseases affecting Delosperma guthriei Lavis are root rot, leaf spots, and powdery mildew.
Root Rot
Root rot can occur if the plant is grown in soil that doesn't drain well. To manage the disease, remove the affected plants from the soil and dispose of them. Allow the soil to dry out for a few days before replanting. Ensure that the soil has good drainage to prevent future occurrences of root rot.
Leaf Spots
Leaf spots are usually caused by fungal infections, but they can also result from watering the plant from above. To manage the disease, remove the infected leaves from the plant, and ensure that water is applied directly to the soil rather than the plant's leaves. Apply a fungicide to prevent the disease from recurring.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects many plants, including Delosperma guthriei Lavis. It produces a white powdery substance on the leaves and stems of infected plants. To manage the disease, remove infected plants' affected leaves, ensure that the plant is well-ventilated, and apply a fungicide to prevent the disease from recurring.
Pest Management
Delosperma guthriei Lavis can also be affected by pests. Some common pests include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the plant's sap, causing the leaves to turn yellow and eventually fall off. To manage the pests, wash the plant's leaves with soapy water and rinse it off thoroughly. Apply a miticide to prevent the pests from recurring.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, white, cottony insects that attach themselves to the plant's surface. They suck the plant's sap, causing deformities and leaf drop. To manage the pests, remove the affected parts of the plant and spray the remaining parts with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Scale Insects
Scale insects are tiny insects that attach themselves to the plant's leaves and stems, sucking the plant's sap. They produce a sticky substance known as honeydew that attracts ants. To manage the pests, remove the affected parts of the plant and spray the remaining parts with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
