Origin
Descurainia richardsonii O.E. Schulz ssp. viscosa (Rydb.) Detling, commonly known as sticky tansy mustard, is a plant species that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. This plant is native to North and Central America and can be found in Alaska, Canada, the western United States, and northern Mexico.
Common Names
The sticky tansy mustard is also known by other common names, including Richardson's tansy mustard and Western tansy mustard.
Uses
Native tribes used the plant for medicinal purposes, such as for treating respiratory ailments, and also as a source of food. The plant is also known to be used by wildlife, especially by birds that feed on its seeds.
General Appearance
The sticky tansy mustard is a biennial or perennial herbaceous plant that grows up to 60 centimeters in height. The plant has a slender, erect, and branching stem that is hairy and sticky. The leaves of this plant are alternate, pinnately divided, and have a bluish-green color. The flowers are small and yellow, and they form clusters at the tips of the branches. The plant produces fruit pods that are narrow, elongated, and hairy, containing small, brown, and round seeds. The plant has a distinctive pungent odor.
Light Requirements
Descurainia richardsonii ssp. viscosa thrives in areas with full sun exposure. They require around 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day to successfully grow and develop. Insufficient light can result in stunted growth and smaller leaves.
Temperature Requirements
This species is native to regions with varying temperatures. They can tolerate temperatures as low as -40°C during the winter and as high as 35°C during summer. However, optimal growth occurs in temperatures between 20°C and 25°C. Fluctuations outside this range can slow down growth and affect the production of seeds and flowers.
Soil Requirements
Descurainia richardsonii ssp. viscosa is not very demanding when it comes to soil requirements. They can grow in a range of soil types, but prefer sandy or loamy soils that are well-drained. The pH level should be between 6.0 to 8.5 for optimal growth.
They are adapted to dry conditions, so the soil should not be waterlogged. Adding a layer of mulch on the soil surface can help to retain moisture and reduce water loss through evaporation, especially during summer.
Cultivation Methods
Descurainia richardsonii O.E. Schulz ssp. viscosa (Rydb.) Detling, commonly known as sticky tansy mustard, is a hardy plant that is native to North America. It thrives in most soils, but it prefers dry to moderate moisture. It prefers sun to partial shade conditions, and it is advisable to plant it in the fall, winter or early spring. The plant is self-seeding and can spread its growth through seeds.
Watering Needs
Sticky tansy mustard does not require a lot of water to thrive, but it needs to be watered regularly. It's advisable to water the plant once a week, especially during dry spells. When watering, it's important to water at the base of the plant to avoid dampening the leaves, which can lead to fungal infections.
Fertilization
Sticky tansy mustard does not require a lot of fertilizers to grow. However, to support the plant's growth, it's advisable to apply a balanced fertilizer before planting and top dress every six weeks with compost during the growing season.
Pruning
Sticky tansy mustard does not require a lot of pruning. However, to keep the plant in good health, prune the dead, damaged, or discolored leaves, stems, or flowers. This will promote new growth and ensure the plant remains healthy and beautiful.
Propagation Methods of Descurainia richardsonii O.E. Schulz ssp. viscosa (Rydb.) Detling
Descurainia richardsonii O.E. Schulz ssp. viscosa (Rydb.) Detling, commonly known as sticky tansy mustard, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. The plant is native to western North America, including Alaska, Yukon, British Columbia, and Alberta. Propagation methods for Descurainia richardsonii O.E. Schulz ssp. viscosa can include both sexual and asexual means.
Propagation by Seed
The primary method of propagation for Descurainia richardsonii O.E. Schulz ssp. viscosa is through seed. The plant produces small greenish-yellow flowers from May to September that develop into elongated seed pods. The seed pods will split open when mature, releasing the small, brown, oblong seeds within. To propagate Descurainia richardsonii O.E. Schulz ssp. viscosa, collect seeds from mature seed pods and allow them to dry completely. Surface sow seeds directly into the soil in autumn or early spring, covering them lightly with soil.
Propagation by Division
Descurainia richardsonii O.E. Schulz ssp. viscosa can also be propagated through division. Divide the plant in early spring or fall by carefully digging up the root clump and separating it into smaller sections. Make sure each section has enough roots and top growth to survive. Replant each section in well-draining soil at the same depth as the original plant. Water thoroughly and keep the soil moist until new growth appears.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Propagation of Descurainia richardsonii O.E. Schulz ssp. viscosa can also be achieved through stem cuttings. Take cuttings in the spring or early summer from new shoots that have not yet flowered. Cut stems that are 4 to 6 inches long and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone and plant into a container filled with a moist sand and peat moss mixture. Water well and cover with a clear plastic bag to create a humid environment. Place in a bright location out of direct sunlight. Check the moisture level frequently and mist as needed. After four to six weeks, the cutting should have rooted and can be transplanted into a larger container or outside into well-draining soil.
Disease and Pest Management for Descurainia richardsonii O.E. Schulz ssp. viscosa
Descurainia richardsonii O.E. Schulz ssp. viscosa is a hardy plant that is usually not susceptible to many diseases and pests. However, it can be affected by some common problems.
Common Diseases
Root Rot: Overwatering or poorly drained soil can cause root rot. Prevention is the best management method, as there are no chemical controls for this disease. Ensure that the plant is not overwatered, and plant in well-draining soil. If root rot is already present, remove the infected parts of the plant and allow the soil to dry out.
Powdery Mildew: High humidity and poor air circulation can cause powdery mildew. Prune infected plant parts, and avoid overhead watering. There are chemical fungicides available for powdery mildew control, but prevention is the best management method.
Common Pests
Aphids: Aphids feed on the plant's sap and can cause stunted growth and deformation of the leaves and stems. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation. Regularly inspect the plant for aphids, and if detected, isolate the affected plant to prevent the spread of the infestation.
Cabbage Loopers: Cabbage loopers are caterpillars that feed on the leaves of the plant. Use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) to control the infestation. Remove any damaged plant parts to prevent the spread of the infestation.
Cutworms: Cutworms are larvae that live in the soil and eat the plant's stem at soil level. Use beneficial nematodes or Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) to control the infestation. Apply diatomaceous earth around the plant's base to prevent cutworms from crawling up.
Regularly inspecting the plant for diseases and pests and taking preventative measures are the best management methods. If necessary, use chemical controls, applying them according to the instructions to avoid damaging the plant and the environment.
