Overview
Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. var. glabra (Woot. & Standl.) Shinners, commonly known as the western tansy mustard, is a species of flowering plant in the family Brassicaceae. It is native to North America and can be found in many regions of the United States and Canada.
Description
The western tansy mustard is a small annual herb that can grow up to 1-2 feet tall. It has a thin stem with alternate, finely dissected leaves that are grayish-green in color. The plant also produces small, bright yellow flowers in clusters at the ends of the stems. The fruit is a long, narrow pod that contains small black seeds.
Uses
The western tansy mustard has a variety of medicinal and culinary uses. It has been traditionally used by Native American tribes for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. The plant has also been used to treat coughs, colds, and sore throats. In terms of culinary uses, the young leaves of the plant can be used in salads or as a spice for soups and stews. The seeds can also be ground up and used as a spice.
Additionally, the western tansy mustard is an important plant in the restoration of disturbed habitats, as it can grow in poor soil conditions and help prevent erosion.
Light Requirements
Descurainia pinnata var. glabra requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. It can tolerate partial shade, but it may affect its flowering and seed production. Therefore, it is best to plant it in areas where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature
This plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can grow in areas with hot summers and cold winters, such as the Great Plains and Rocky Mountains regions. However, it prefers cooler temperatures and can thrive in areas with an average temperature range of 60-80°F (15-27°C).
Soil Requirements
Descurainia pinnata var. glabra can grow in a variety of soil types, but it prefers well-drained soils with low to moderate fertility. It can tolerate alkaline soils and saline soils as well. However, it does not grow well in waterlogged soils. The ideal soil pH for this plant is 6.0-7.5.
Cultivation Methods
Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. var. glabra (Woot. & Standl.) Shinners is a perennial plant that can be grown from seeds. It requires full sun exposure and well-draining soil. The seeds should be sowed in the early spring, and the plant should start to bloom in the late spring or early summer.Watering Needs
This plant requires moderate watering, and care should be taken to avoid waterlogging or drought stress. Watering should be done at the root level and not from above the plant. During the growing season, the plant should be watered once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions.Fertilization
Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. var. glabra (Woot. & Standl.) Shinners does not require regular fertilization, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied twice a year in the early spring and early fall. The fertilizer should be mixed into the soil around the plant's base, following the manufacturer's instructions.Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. var. glabra (Woot. & Standl.) Shinners. However, removing spent blooms and dead or damaged leaves will keep the plant tidy and encourage new growth. Any stems that become too leggy or crowded can be pruned at the base to encourage branching.Propagation of Descurainia pinnata var. glabra
Descurainia pinnata var. glabra, commonly known as western tansy mustard, can be propagated through various methods.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagation for Descurainia pinnata var. glabra is through seed propagation. The plant produces small, yellow flowers, which give way to slender, elongated seed pods containing numerous small seeds. To propagate through seed, the seed pods should be harvested when they are fully matured. Then, the seeds can be collected and dried for a few days in a cool and dry place. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix, and water sparingly until the seedlings establish.
Cuttings
Descurainia pinnata var. glabra can also be propagated through cuttings. Softwood cuttings are taken from the new shoots in summer, while hardwood cuttings are taken in late winter or early spring. Dip the cuttings into a rooting hormone, and plant in moist and well-drained soil. Cover the cuttings with a plastic bag or cloche to retain moisture. The new plants should root within 2-3 months and can then be transferred to individual pots.
Division
Descurainia pinnata var. glabra can be propagated through division during the early spring or late fall. Divide the plant by cutting the roots into smaller pieces, ensuring that each piece contains enough roots and foliage to survive. Replant immediately in well-draining soil, and water thoroughly.
Disease and Pest Management for Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. var. glabra (Woot. & Standl.) Shinners
Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. var. glabra (Woot. & Standl.) Shinners is a hardy plant that is resistant to most diseases and pests. However, certain environmental conditions can make it susceptible to some diseases and pests. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Clubroot
Clubroot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of Descurainia pinnata. Symptoms include stunted growth and the development of club-like growths on the roots. The best way to manage this disease is to prevent it from occurring. Rotate crops to prevent the build-up of the disease in the soil. Improve soil drainage and avoid overwatering, as the fungus thrives in damp soils. Fungicides can be applied, but they are not very effective against this disease.
Aphids
Aphids are a common pest that can affect Descurainia pinnata. They suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, causing deformities and stunted growth. They can also transmit viral diseases. An infestation can be controlled by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge the aphids. Alternatively, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the aphids. Natural predators such as ladybirds can also be introduced to control the aphid population.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars are another common pest that can affect Descurainia pinnata. They eat the leaves of the plant, causing defoliation and stunted growth. Infestations can be controlled by handpicking the caterpillars off the plant and destroying them. Alternatively, Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) can be used, a natural and organic pesticide that is toxic to caterpillars.
By following these disease and pest management strategies, Descurainia pinnata can thrive and provide many benefits to the environment.
