Origin and Common Names
Delosperma wethamae L.Bolus, commonly known as Wetham's Vygie, is a perennial succulent plant that belongs to the family Aizoaceae. It is native to South Africa and was named after Hilda Pamela Wetham, who was a South African botanist and plant collector.
Appearance
The plant has a low-growing habit and forms dense mats that spread up to 30-60 cm wide. The leaves are small, narrow, and triangular in shape, and they are greyish-green or bluish-green in color. The flowers are star-shaped, bright pink to magenta, and appear in late spring and early summer. The plant blooms profusely for several weeks and attracts bees and butterflies.
Uses
Delosperma wethamae L.Bolus is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in rock gardens, container gardens, and borders due to its attractive flowers and drought tolerance. It is easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is also deer resistant and can tolerate hot and dry conditions, making it an ideal plant for xeriscaping.
Growth Conditions for Delosperma wethamae L.Bolus
Delosperma wethamae L.Bolus, also known as White Pickle Plant, is a succulent plant that requires specific growth conditions to thrive. Let's take a look at its typical growth conditions:
Light Requirements
Delosperma wethamae L.Bolus is a sun-loving plant and requires bright, direct sunlight for at least 6 to 8 hours a day. Insufficient light can cause the plant to become leggy and weak. In hot climates, the plant will benefit from some partial shade during the hottest part of the day.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Delosperma wethamae L.Bolus is between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 40 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit during the night. The plant is sensitive to frost and cannot withstand extended periods of freezing temperatures. In colder climates, it is best to grow the plant in containers and bring them indoors during the winter months.
Soil Requirements
Delosperma wethamae L.Bolus prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0 - 7.0). A sandy or rocky soil mixture with some organic matter added is ideal. The plant does not tolerate wet soil conditions and can develop root rot if overwatered. It is best to let the soil dry out between waterings.
By providing the ideal light, temperature, and soil conditions, your Delosperma wethamae L.Bolus will grow lush and healthy, adding a beautiful touch to your garden or houseplants collection.
Cultivation Methods
Delosperma wethamae L.Bolus thrives in well-draining soil and full sun. It is best propagated during the cooler months of the year and kept moist but not waterlogged. This plant prefers mild temperatures of around 18-21°C, and it is sensitive to frost. Delosperma wethamae L.Bolus can be grown from seed, cuttings, or division of mature plants.
Watering Needs
During the hotter months, Delosperma wethamae L.Bolus should be watered at least once a week. However, be careful not to overwater as it is susceptible to root rot in waterlogged soil. This plant is drought tolerant and prefers to dry out between watering cycles. During winter, reduce the frequency of watering as the plant tends to become dormant.
Fertilization
Delosperma wethamae L.Bolus is not a heavy feeder, but an application of a balanced fertilizer in spring can boost its growth and improve the flowering. A slow-release fertilizer or a liquid fertilizer that is high in phosphorus will provide the necessary nutrients. It is always important to follow the recommended dosage and application rates when fertilizing your plants.
Pruning
Deadheading or cutting off spent blooms will help encourage the plant to produce more flowers. However, avoid cutting into old wood, as the plant may not regrow from this point. Pruning should be done in spring before new growth emerges. Pinching back Delosperma wethamae L.Bolus will also help to encourage more compact growth and improve its overall appearance.
Propagation of Delosperma wethamae L.Bolus
Propagation refers to the process of reproducing plants through various techniques such as seed sowing, cutting, and division. Delosperma wethamae L.Bolus can be propagated using different methods that include:
Seed sowing
Delosperma wethamae L.Bolus can be propagated through seed sowing. The seeds should be planted in sandy, well-draining soil, placed in a warm, bright location, and kept moist. The seeds usually germinate within two to three weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted to their permanent location once they have grown two to three sets of leaves.
Softwood cuttings
Softwood cuttings can also be used to propagate Delosperma wethamae L.Bolus. Cuttings should be taken from healthy stems during the growing season and planted in sandy soil. The cuttings should be kept moist and in a warm, bright location. After several weeks, roots should develop, and the cuttings can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Division
Delosperma wethamae L.Bolus can also be propagated through division. The plant should be lifted and carefully separated into two or more sections. Each section should have some roots and leaves. The sections can then be transplanted into their permanent location, and kept moist until they become established.
Propagation of Delosperma wethamae L.Bolus can be successful as long as the proper techniques are used, and the plants are given the appropriate care after propagation.
Disease and Pest Management for Delosperma wethamae L.Bolus
Delosperma wethamae is an attractive succulent plant that is not usually affected by many diseases. However, it can be infected by root rot and leaf spot diseases. Also, it can be attacked by pests such as mealybugs and spider mites. Good management practices such as proper soil drainage, watering, and pruning can help to prevent and control such infections and infestations. Here are some tips on how to manage them:
Root Rot Disease Management
Root rot is a fungal disease that can be caused by overwatering, poor soil drainage, and planting in heavy soils. Symptoms of root rot include yellowing and drooping of leaves, stunted growth, and eventually plant death. To manage it, you should:
- Avoid overwatering and water the plant only when necessary
- Ensure proper soil drainage by planting it in well-draining soil and using a pot with drainage holes
- Avoid planting the succulent in heavy soils that retain too much moisture
- Treat infected plants with a fungicide such as Bacillus subtilis to kill the fungi
Leaf Spot Disease Management
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that is characterized by the development of circular, brown or black spots on the leaves of the succulent. The disease can be caused by overwatering, overcrowding, and poor air circulation. To manage leaf spot, you should:
- Ensure proper plant spacing to promote good air circulation and avoid overcrowding
- Water the plant only when necessary
- Treat infected plants with a fungicide such as neem oil or copper fungicides
- Prune infected leaves and dispose of them to reduce the spread of the disease
Mealybug and Spider Mite Pest Management
Mealybugs are small white pests that feed on the sap of the succulent, causing yellowing and distortion of leaves. Spider mites, on the other hand, cause yellowing and stippling of leaves. To manage mealybugs and spider mites, you should:
- Wipe off the pests with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or soapy water
- Introduce natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings
- Spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil
- Keep the succulent in a clean and dust-free environment to discourage pest infestations
By practicing proper management tips, you can keep your Delosperma wethamae succulent healthy and beautiful.
