Origin
Dendranthema arcticum (L.) Tzvelev ssp. polare (Hultén) Heywood, commonly known as Arctic Daisy, is a flowering plant species native to the Arctic regions of North America and Eurasia. It is a member of the family Asteraceae and is closely related to the common garden chrysanthemum.Common Names
Arctic Daisy is the most common English name for Dendranthema arcticum (L.) Tzvelev ssp. polare (Hultén) Heywood. It is also known by other common names such as Arctic Chrysanthemum, Arctic Marigold, Arctic Aster, and Polar Chrysanthemum.Uses
Arctic Daisy has a long history of use in traditional medicine by indigenous communities across the Arctic. It was commonly used to treat various ailments such as colds, coughs, and fever. The plant was also used to make a tea that was believed to have sedative and calming effects. Arctic Daisy is also a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive and vibrant flowers. It is commonly grown in gardens and is a popular choice for rock gardens. The plant is adapted to the harsh arctic climate and is highly resistant to cold temperatures and strong winds.General Appearance
Arctic Daisy is a low-growing perennial plant that typically grows to a height of 10-20 cm. It has thin stems and small leaves that are hairy and light green in color. The plant produces bright yellow daisy-like flowers that have a prominent dark-yellow center. The flowers typically bloom in late spring or early summer and can last for several weeks. The plant has a deep taproot that enables it to survive in the harsh arctic environment.Light Requirements
Dendranthema arcticum (L.) Tzvelev ssp. polare (Hultén) Heywood typically grows in areas that receive full sunlight to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but full sunlight is optimal for growth and flowering.
Temperature Requirements
Dendranthema arcticum (L.) Tzvelev ssp. polare (Hultén) Heywood is a hardy perennial that is adapted to cold and subarctic climates. It can survive in temperatures as low as -40°C and as high as 20°C. However, it grows best in temperatures between 10°C and 15°C.
Soil Requirements
Dendranthema arcticum (L.) Tzvelev ssp. polare (Hultén) Heywood grows well in well-drained, alkaline soils. It prefers sandy or loamy soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant can also tolerate slightly acidic soils, but highly acidic soils should be avoided. The addition of organic matter can improve soil fertility and drainage.
Cultivation Methods
The Dendranthema arcticum (L.) Tzvelev ssp. polare (Hultén) Heywood, also known as Arctic Daisy, is a hardy perennial plant that is relatively easy to cultivate. It is mostly grown for its attractive flowers, which come in a range of colors including white, pink, purple, and yellow. This plant prefers well-drained soil, full sun, and cooler temperatures.
The best time to plant Arctic Daisy is in the spring, after the danger of frost has passed. The soil should be prepared by removing all weeds and other unwanted vegetation. The planting hole should be dug to the same depth and twice as wide as the root ball of the plant. The plant should be placed in the hole, and the soil should be firmly packed around the roots. It is recommended to water the plant thoroughly after planting to help the soil settle around the roots.
Watering Needs
The Arctic Daisy plant requires well-drained soil but also needs regular watering to thrive. During the growing season, typically from spring to fall, the plant should be watered deeply once a week. However, it is important not to overwater the plant as this can lead to root rot.
In winter, the plant should be allowed to dry out in between watering. This will prevent the roots from becoming waterlogged, which can potentially damage the plant. Also, be sure to water the plant from below the foliage to avoid getting the leaves wet, which can cause leaf spotting.
Fertilization
Arctic Daisy plants benefit from regular fertilization throughout the growing season. A balanced, all-purpose fertilizer should be applied to the soil every four to six weeks. During the winter months, fertilization should be reduced or stopped altogether.
It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions when applying fertilizers and not to over-fertilize the plant, as this can damage it and can lead to excessive growth with fewer flowers.
Pruning
Arctic Daisy plants do not typically require pruning, except for removing spent flowers and deadheading. Deadheading is the process of cutting off the dead flowers to promote further bloom and prevent the plant from going to seed. This process should be done regularly during the growing season to keep the plant looking its best.
If the plant becomes too leggy or unruly, it can be trimmed back in the early spring before new growth appears. This will encourage bushier growth and more flowers. Pruning should be done with sharp, sterile tools to prevent damage to the plant and the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Dendranthema arcticum ssp. polare
Dendranthema arcticum ssp. polare, commonly known as Arctic Chrysanthemum or Polar Daisy, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to the Arctic regions of Europe, Asia, and North America and is widely used in traditional medicine and as an ornamental plant. Propagation of this plant can be done through various methods:
Seed propagation
The most common method of propagation for Dendranthema arcticum ssp. polare is through seed propagation. The seeds are small and lightweight, with a feathery pappus that facilitates their dispersal by wind. To propagate this plant through seeds, sow them in a well-draining soil mix that is moist but not waterlogged.
The seeds should be sown on the soil surface and gently pressed into the soil. Cover the pot with plastic wrap or a clear plastic bag to create a humid environment and place it in a warm location with bright, indirect light. The seedlings should emerge within two to four weeks.
Division
Another way to propagate Dendranthema arcticum ssp. polare is through division. This method involves separating the plant into smaller sections and replanting them to form new individuals. Division is best done in early spring before new growth appears or in the fall after the growing season has ended.
To propagate through division, dig up the plant carefully, taking care not to damage the roots. Using a sharp, sterile knife, cut the plant into sections, ensuring that each section has a healthy root system. Replant the sections in their new location and water thoroughly.
Stem cutting
Stem cutting is another method of propagation that can be used for Dendranthema arcticum ssp. polare. This method involves taking a cutting from the stem of the plant and rooting it in soil.
To propagate through stem cutting, take a cutting that is four to six inches long from a healthy stem. Remove the lower leaves, leaving only a few at the top of the cutting. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Cover the pot with plastic wrap or a clear plastic bag to create a humid environment and place it in a warm location with bright, indirect light. The cutting should root within two to four weeks.
Propagation of Dendranthema arcticum ssp. polare through these methods is relatively easy and straightforward, and it ensures that the genetic makeup of the plant is maintained.
Disease Management
The plant Dendranthema arcticum (L.) Tzvelev ssp. polare (Hultén) Heywood is susceptible to several diseases, including:
- Botrytis blight
- Rust
- Downy mildew
To manage Botrytis blight, it is essential to maintain good air circulation around the plant, avoid overhead watering, and remove any infected plant parts. Applying fungicides can also be effective in controlling the spread of the disease.
Rust can be managed by keeping the plant foliage dry by avoiding overhead watering and spacing plants properly to promote good air circulation. Additionally, the application of fungicides can be helpful in preventing the spread of the disease.
Downy mildew can be managed by avoiding overhead watering and providing good air circulation. Also, applying fungicides can be helpful in controlling the disease.
Pest Management
Dendranthema arcticum (L.) Tzvelev ssp. polare (Hultén) Heywood is susceptible to various pests, including:
- Aphids
- Spider mites
- Thrips
Aphids can be managed by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water to wash off the pests. Insecticidal soaps and neem oil are also effective insecticides that can be used for aphid control. Additionally, releasing natural predators like ladybugs can help control aphid populations.
Spider mites can be managed by regularly spraying the plant with water and keeping the plant well-hydrated. Insecticidal soaps and neem oil can also be effective in controlling spider mites.
Thrips can be managed by removing any infested plant parts and treating the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Additionally, releasing natural predators like lacewings can help control thrip populations.
