Origin and Common Names
Delosperma taylori (N.E.Br.) Schwantes, commonly known as Taylor's Ice Plant, is a succulent plant that is native to South Africa. It is named after the British botanist, John William Taylor.
Appearance
The Taylor's Ice Plant is a low-growing succulent that forms a sprawling mat. Its leaves are fleshy, elongated, and range from green to blue-green in color. The plant produces daisy-like flowers that are bright pink in color and bloom during the summer. The flowers are held above the foliage on thin stems and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Uses
The Taylor's Ice Plant is a popular plant for rock gardens and containers because of its low-growing, spreading habit and colorful flowers. It is also drought-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping. The plant can be grown in full sun and well-draining soil. Additionally, the plant has medicinal uses in traditional South African medicine, where it is used to treat fever, sore throat, and other ailments.
Light Requirements
Delosperma taylori requires full sun or bright light to thrive. It requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight each day, and any form of shade or insufficient light can negatively impact its growth. This plant can grow well in a south-facing location where it receives maximum exposure to sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Delosperma taylori prefers warm temperatures and cannot tolerate frost or freezing temperatures. It grows well in temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C) during the day and 50°F to 60°F (10°C to 15.5°C) at night. Extreme heat or cold can stunt the growth of the plant.
Soil Requirements
Delosperma taylori thrives in well-draining, sandy soil that is slightly acidic, with a pH of 5.5 to 7.5. The soil should be amended with compost to improve the soil structure and nutrient content. This plant prefers soil that is dry or moderately moist, as it can suffer from root rot in wet soil. Good drainage is critical for the plant's health and longevity.
Cultivation Methods
Delosperma taylori, commonly known as Taylor's ice plant, is a hardy succulent plant that thrives in well-draining soils and prefers full sun exposure. This plant is suitable for rock gardens, containers, and garden borders.
To cultivate Delosperma taylori, plant it in soil that is gritty, sandy, and well-draining. The soil's pH should be between 6.0 and 7.0. Transplanting should only be done when necessary, preferably in spring. The plant should also be shielded from frost to avoid any damage.
Watering Needs
Delosperma taylori requires minimal watering, making it ideal for dry landscapes. The plant should be watered once a week, and the watering frequency should be reduced during winter. Overwatering causes root rot, while underwatering leads to wilting.
Fertilization
Delosperma taylori requires minimal fertilizer. The plant should only be fertilized once in spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Excessive fertilizer may cause the plant to grow rapidly and become leggy.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Delosperma taylori, as it is a low-maintenance plant. However, if the plant becomes too leggy, pruning can be done in early spring. The flowers can also be deadheaded to encourage more blooms.
Propagation of Delosperma taylori (N.E.Br.) Schwantes
Delosperma taylori (N.E.Br.) Schwantes, commonly known as Taylor's ice plant, is an evergreen succulent plant that is native to South Africa. It is a popular plant among gardeners and landscapers because of its attractive appearance and low maintenance requirements. Propagation of Delosperma taylori can be performed through three methods.
Division
Division is the easiest and most common method of propagating Delosperma taylori. It involves separating the plant into smaller sections and planting them individually. This method is best done in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. The plant can be dug up and the root ball can be separated into smaller sections using a sharp knife. The sections should be replanted in well-draining soil and watered well until established.
Seed
Propagation through seed is also possible but requires patience as the seeds take a long time to germinate. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mixture and kept consistently moist. It is best to sow the seeds in the spring and they should begin to germinate within 2-3 weeks. Once the seedlings have developed 2-3 true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or a larger container.
Softwood cuttings
Propagation through softwood cuttings is another method that can be used for Delosperma taylori. This method should be done in the spring when the plant is actively growing. Softwood cuttings can be taken from the tips of the plant and should be approximately 3-4 inches long. The leaves should be removed from the bottom half of the cutting and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone before planting in a well-draining soil mixture. The cuttings should be kept consistently moist and out of direct sunlight until they have developed a good root system.
Disease Management
Delosperma taylori is generally disease resistant, but it can be susceptible to various fungal diseases, including fusarium wilt, root rot, and powdery mildew. Managing these diseases involves preventing their occurrence and controlling their spread.
To prevent fusarium wilt, avoid planting in poorly-drained soil or areas that have a history of the disease. Crop rotation is also important to minimize the spread of the disease. If the disease is already present, remove and destroy the affected plants, and avoid planting susceptible Delosperma species in the same location for two to three years.
Root rot can be managed by avoiding overwatering, especially in poorly-drained soil. Planting in well-draining soil and adding organic matter can also promote healthier root growth.
Powdery mildew is often a result of poor air circulation and can be prevented by planting in areas with good air flow and by spacing plants further apart to allow for proper ventilation. If powdery mildew occurs, removing infected plant parts and using fungicidal sprays can help control its spread.
Pest Management
Delosperma taylori can be affected by various pests, including aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. Early detection and prevention can help manage pest infestations.
Aphids can be managed by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Additionally, attracting natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings can help control their population.
Spider mites thrive in dry conditions and can be deterred by increasing humidity levels and regularly spraying the plant with water to keep it moist. Additionally, predatory mites like Phytoseiulus persimilis can be introduced to control spider mite populations.
Mealybugs can be managed through manual removal and by using insecticidal soap or neem oil. Additionally, introducing natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings can help keep the population in check.
