Overview of Descurainia incana var. macrosperma
Descurainia incana var. macrosperma is commonly known as bigseed tansymustard and is a member of the mustard family. It is a native plant of North America and can be found growing in arid regions ranging from the Great Plains to the Rocky Mountains.
General Appearance
The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and is an annual herb. It has yellow flowers that are arranged in small clusters and bloom from May to September. The leaves are mostly basal, with some forming along the stem, and are slender and finely divided. Its mature seeds are larger than those of other Descurainia species, giving it the name "macrosperma."
Uses
Bigseed tansymustard has been used for centuries by Native Americans for various medicinal purposes, including the treatment of colds, coughs, and sore throats. It was also used as a stimulant and diuretic. Additionally, the plant has been used as forage for livestock and as a source of seed oil for cooking and lighting.
In modern times, the plant's seeds are used in the production of biodiesel. Researchers are also investigating the plant's potential for use in phytoremediation, which involves using plants to remove pollutants from contaminated soils.
Light Conditions
Descurainia incana var. macrosperma is an adaptogenic plant that has the capability of growing in a range of light conditions. However, it thrives in full sun or partial shade with at least 6 hours of direct or indirect sunlight every day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers a cool and mild climate and is able to tolerate temperatures ranging from 10°C to 30°C. Descurainia incana var. macrosperma can grow in USDA hardiness zones 2 to 9.
Soil Requirements
Descurainia incana var. macrosperma is a hardy plant that can grow in a range of soils, including clay, loam, and sandy soil. However, it prefers well-drained soil that is mildly acidic to neutral in pH. The plant can tolerate soil with low fertility levels, but it grows best in nutrient-rich soils. The ideal soil for this plant should be rich in organic matter. To ensure optimal growth, it is recommended to maintain soil moisture levels at all times, without waterlogging.
Cultivation methods
Descurainia incana (Bernh. ex Fisch. & C.A. Mey.) Dorn var. macrosperma (O.E. Schulz) Dorn is a hardy plant that can adapt to a wide range of growing conditions. It can be grown from seeds, which should be sown directly into the soil during the spring or fall. The seedlings can be transplanted once they reach a height of 2 to 3 inches.
This plant prefers a well-drained soil that is slightly alkaline. It can tolerate poor soil conditions and is drought-tolerant once established.
Watering needs
Descurainia incana (Bernh. ex Fisch. & C.A. Mey.) Dorn var. macrosperma (O.E. Schulz) Dorn does not require frequent watering after it has established. This plant prefers dry soil and can become stunted if overwatered. During the first year after planting, water regularly to help the plant establish its root system. After that, only water during long dry spells.
Fertilization
Descurainia incana (Bernh. ex Fisch. & C.A. Mey.) Dorn var. macrosperma (O.E. Schulz) Dorn does not require frequent fertilization. This plant can thrive in low-nutrient soils. However, it can benefit from a light application of balanced fertilizer once or twice a year.
Pruning
This plant does not require frequent pruning. You can trim the plant lightly during the early summer to keep it in shape or remove any dead or damaged growth. Otherwise, leave it alone to grow naturally.
Propagation Methods for Descurainia Incana Var. Macrosperma
Descurainia incana var. macrosperma, commonly known as the gray tansy mustard, is a cool-season annual or biennial plant that belongs to the mustard family. In order to propagate the plant, several methods can be used. These methods include seed propagation, stem cutting, and division.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method used for propagating Descurainia incana var. macrosperma. The seeds can be obtained from seed companies or collected from mature plants. After collecting the seeds, they should be stored in a cool, dry place until they are ready to be planted.
When planting the seeds, they should be sown on well-drained soil and kept moist until they germinate. It is important to note that these seeds need light to germinate, and the soil should not be kept too wet, as this may cause the seeds to rot.
Stem Cutting
Another method that can be used for propagating Descurainia incana var. macrosperma is through stem cuttings. This method involves taking a stem from a mature plant and then planting it in soil.
The stem should be taken from a healthy plant, and the leaves on the lower part of the stem should be removed. The stem should then be planted in a pot with well-drained soil and kept moist until it establishes roots and begins to grow.
Division
Division is a method that can be used for propagating Descurainia incana var. macrosperma, especially for mature plants. This method involves dividing the plant into smaller sections and then planting them in separate pots or garden beds.
To divide the plant, it should be carefully removed from the soil and separated into sections, ensuring that each section has roots and leaves. The sections can then be planted in separate pots or garden beds and kept moist until they establish roots and begin to grow.
Disease Management
Descurainia incana is a relatively disease-resistant plant. However, like any other plant, it is susceptible to certain diseases such as powdery mildew, downy mildew, root rot, and bacterial leaf spot. Here are some tips to manage these diseases:
- Powdery mildew: This disease is characterized by white powdery patches on the leaves. To manage it, use fungicides such as sulfur, neem oil, or potassium bicarbonate. Ensure you spray the undersides of the leaves, where the fungi breed. Remove any severely infected plant parts, as they may harbor the pathogen.
- Downy mildew: This disease causes yellowing and wilting of leaves. It mostly affects the lower leaves. To manage it, avoid overhead watering as the fungi thrive in humid conditions. Use fungicides such as copper-based ones. Dispose of any infected plant parts properly.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by fungi and can lead to the death of the plant. It is mostly caused by overwatering and poorly drained soils. To manage it, ensure proper soil drainage, avoid overwatering, and remove any infected plant parts.
- Bacterial leaf spot: This disease causes black spots on the leaves, which expand and combine, leading to defoliation. To manage it, use copper-based fungicides. Keep the leaves dry by avoiding overhead watering.
Pest Management
Descurainia incana is also relatively pest-resistant. However, some pests can infest it, such as aphids, spider mites, and flea beetles. Here are some tips to manage them:
- Aphids: These soft-bodied insects suck sap from the plant, leading to wilting and stunting. To manage them, use insecticidal soaps, neem oil, or beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings.
- Spider mites: These tiny insects also suck sap from the plant, leading to yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To manage them, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Keep the leaves moist by misting them often.
- Flea beetles: These pests chew tiny holes on the leaves, leading to defoliation. To manage them, use insecticidal soaps or neem oil. Encourage natural enemies such as birds and beneficial insects such as ground beetles.
