Origin and Common Names
Desmodium humifusum (Muhl. ex Bigelow) Beck is a species of flowering plant in the pea family, Fabaceae. It is native to North America and can be found in the eastern states from Maine to Florida and westward to Texas. Common names for this plant include prostrate tick trefoil, prostrate tickclover, and sprawlbean.Appearance
Desmodium humifusum is a low-growing, prostrate plant that typically reaches only a height of about 12 inches. Its stems are slender and trailing, and the leaves are trifoliate with oblong leaflets. The flowers are small, pinkish-purple, arranged in clusters, and are quite fragrant. The fruits are small, brown, flattened pods containing several small, round seeds.Uses
Desmodium humifusum is primarily used as a groundcover and is often used to stabilize slopes and prevent erosion. It also has some medicinal properties, as it contains coumarin compounds that are known to have anticancer and anticoagulant effects. Additionally, it can be useful as a forage crop for grazing animals and has been used in traditional medicine as a remedy for respiratory ailments. However, it should be noted that the plant is toxic to horses and can cause a condition known as "pigeon fever," making it unsuitable for use as a feed for equine animals.Light Requirements
Desmodium humifusum can tolerate a wide range of lighting conditions that range from full shade to partial sunlight.
It can grow in the understory of forests with low light intensity and also in grasslands and areas where the light is not obstructed.
Temperature Requirements
The plant generally thrives in warm temperatures with a minimum of 20°C and a maximum of 35°C.
It can, however, tolerate fluctuations in temperature between day and night without any adverse effects on its growth and development.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter.
It can grow in a range of soil types such as sandy, loamy and clayey soils.
The pH of the soil should range from neutral to slightly acidic, between 6.0 and 7.0.
Furthermore, the plant can also grow in soils that are low in fertility, making it a useful plant for soil erosion control in areas where soil nutrients have been depleted by excessive farming activities.
Cultivation methods
Desmodium humifusum is a native plant to the United States and can be found growing in various habitats, including prairies, woodlands, savannas, and roadsides. It is an annual or short-lived perennial plant that can grow up to 100cm in height and spread up to 60cm wide. To cultivate this plant, you need to select a location that receives full sun to partial shade.
The soil should be well-draining and moderately fertile with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. If the soil is heavy and clayey, mix some sand to improve its drainage. You can propagate Desmodium humifusum from seeds or by division of the root clumps in early spring. Plant the seeds at a depth of 1/4 inch and water them frequently until germination occurs, which usually takes two to three weeks.
Watering needs
Desmodium humifusum prefers well-drained soils with moderate moisture. Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season, to ensure the soil remains evenly moist. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so make sure the soil is not soggy. During hot and dry seasons, increase the frequency of watering to keep the soil from drying out.
Fertilization
Desmodium humifusum generally does not require a lot of fertilization; however, adding organic matter to the soil in the form of compost or well-rotted manure can enhance its growth and vigor. If you feel that your soil lacks essential nutrients, a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 will suffice. Apply the fertilizer in spring before new growth begins, following the package instructions.
Pruning
Desmodium humifusum does not require frequent pruning, but it is advisable to deadhead the faded flowers to encourage new bloom. If the plant becomes leggy or overgrown, prune back the stems to half their length in late spring or early summer. This will promote bushy growth and help maintain the plant's shape and size.
Propagation of Desmodium humifusum (Muhl. ex Bigelow) Beck
Desmodium humifusum (Muhl. ex Bigelow) Beck, commonly known as the trailing ticktrefoil, can be propagated through various methods, including:
Seed Propagation
The easiest and most common way to propagate Desmodium humifusum is by seed. Seeds collected from mature plants in the fall or early spring can be sown directly outdoors in a well-prepared seedbed or in pots filled with a seed-starting mix. Seeds require light for germination, so do not cover them with soil. Keep the soil moist until the seeds have germinated, which can take anywhere from 7 to 21 days.
Cutting Propagation
Desmodium humifusum can also be propagated by taking cuttings of the stem tips. Take 4- to 6-inch-long cuttings from the plant's trailing stems, making sure to include a few leaves on each cutting. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone, then plant it in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. Water thoroughly and keep the soil moist until new growth appears.
Division
Division is another method of propagating Desmodium humifusum. It involves digging up an established plant and dividing it into smaller sections, each with its own roots and shoots. Each section can then be planted in its own pot or directly in the ground.
Disease and Pest Management for Desmodium humifusum
Desmodium humifusum is a versatile ground cover plant that is generally low-maintenance and disease-resistant. However, certain diseases and pests can still affect its growth and health. Here are some common issues that you should be aware of, and some tips on how to manage them:
Diseases
1. Fusarium wilt - This fungal disease can cause wilting, yellowing, and eventual death of the plant. It is most common in areas with high humidity and warm temperatures.
Management: To prevent the spread of Fusarium wilt, avoid planting Desmodium humifusum in soil that has been previously infected. Make sure to only use seeds from reputable sources, and treat any infected plants with a fungicide as soon as possible.
2. Root rot - This fungal disease can cause the roots to rot, leading to stunted growth and yellowing leaves.
Management: To prevent root rot, make sure to plant Desmodium humifusum in well-drained soil, and avoid over-watering the plant. If you suspect root rot, remove the affected plant and replace the soil.
Pests
1. Spider mites - These tiny pests can cause discoloration and dropping of leaves due to their feeding habits. They thrive in hot and dry environments.
Management: To prevent spider mites, make sure to keep the plant well-watered and mist the leaves regularly. You can also use insecticidal soap to control the population.
2. Aphids - These soft-bodied insects can cause yellowing and curling of leaves due to their feeding habits. They also secrete honeydew, which can attract ants and other pests.
Management: To prevent aphids, introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings to the area. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the population.
By following these disease and pest management tips, you can help ensure that your Desmodium humifusum remains healthy and vibrant.
