Overview
Draba reptans (Lam.) Fern. var. micrantha (Nutt.) Fern. is a low-growing, perennial herb that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is native to the United States and is commonly found in the western parts of the country. The plant is also known by other common names, including yellow draba and spreading rockcress.Appearance
Draba reptans has a compact, mat-forming growth habit, with stems that grow up to 15 cm long. The leaves are simple, toothed, and are arranged in basal rosettes. They are oblong to oblanceolate in shape, and measure up to 1 cm wide and 4 cm long. The plant produces small, 4-petaled yellow flowers that appear in clusters on thin stalks. The flowers bloom from April to June.Uses
Draba reptans is commonly used for ornamental purposes, as it can add a splash of color to rock gardens and other naturalistic landscapes. The plant is also used in native plant restoration projects, as it is well-adapted to rocky, arid environments. The Navajo tribe historically used the root of the plant to cure minor ailments, such as toothache and sore throat. However, it is not commonly used in modern herbal medicine.Cultivation
Draba reptans is relatively easy to grow, and requires minimal maintenance. The plant prefers full sun or partial shade, and well-drained soils that are low in organic matter. It is tolerant of drought and is deer-resistant. The plant can be propagated via seeds.Light Requirements
Draba reptans (Lam.) Fern. var. micrantha (Nutt.) Fern. typically grows best in shaded areas. It can tolerate partial sunlight, but it needs protection from the harsh afternoon sun to avoid drying out and wilting.
Temperature Preferences
The typical growth conditions for Draba reptans (Lam.) Fern. var. micrantha (Nutt.) Fern. involve cool to cold temperatures. The plant can survive freezing temperatures, and even prefers them. It will continue to grow and thrive in the 30-60 degree Fahrenheit range.
Soil Requirements
Draba reptans (Lam.) Fern. var. micrantha (Nutt.) Fern. prefers well-draining soils that are moist, but not waterlogged. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including soil that is acidic, neutral, or alkaline. However, the soil should be rich in organic matter to promote healthy growth.
Cultivation methods
Draba reptans (Lam.) Fern. var. micrantha (Nutt.) Fern. is a perennial plant that thrives in well-drained soils and cooler temperatures. It thrives in a variety of soil types and can tolerate slightly alkaline soil, but it prefers a neutral to slightly acidic pH. The plant can grow up to a height of 10-45 cm. Plant the seeds at a depth of 1/8 inch, and space the plants about 6-12 inches apart.
Watering needs
Draba reptans (Lam.) Fern. var. micrantha (Nutt.) Fern. needs regular watering, particularly during the dry spells in the summer months. Water the plant frequently during its growing period and avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot. An inch of water once a week is enough for the plant to grow well. If the soil dries out in the top inch, water the plant immediately.
Fertilization
Draba reptans (Lam.) Fern. var. micrantha (Nutt.) Fern. requires moderate fertilization to promote healthy growth and flowering. Apply a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium at a rate of 2 pounds per 100 square feet of soil. Apply the fertilizer in early spring and again at the start of the growing season.
Pruning
Draba reptans (Lam.) Fern. var. micrantha (Nutt.) Fern. requires minimal pruning. However, prune the plant after flowering by cutting back the faded flower spike to encourage healthy growth. Remove any yellow, dead, or diseased leaves and stems from the plant to prevent the spread of disease. Pinch back the plant occasionally to promote full and compact growth.
Propagation of Draba reptans (Lam.) Fern. var. micrantha (Nutt.) Fern.
Draba reptans (Lam.) Fern. var. micrantha (Nutt.) Fern. is a low-growing perennial herb that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. The plant is native to North America and is commonly found in rocky or sandy areas.
Propagation by Seeds
Draba reptans (Lam.) Fern. var. micrantha (Nutt.) Fern. can be propagated by seeds. Collect mature capsules of the plant and break them open to remove the seeds. Clean the seeds to remove any debris or chaff.
You can start seedlings indoors or directly sow the seeds outdoors in the spring. If you start the seedlings indoors, sow the seeds in pots filled with a well-draining growing medium. Keep the soil moist and place the pots in a bright location. Once the seedlings have grown to a suitable size, they can be transplanted outdoors.
Propagation by Cuttings
Draba reptans (Lam.) Fern. var. micrantha (Nutt.) Fern. can also be propagated by stem cuttings.
Take stem cuttings from the plant in the summer. Cut a stem that's at least 3 inches long and remove the lower leaves. Dip the end of the cutting in a rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining growing medium. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a bright location. After a few weeks, the cutting should develop roots. Once the roots have developed, the plant can be transplanted outdoors.
Propagation by Division
You can also propagate Draba reptans (Lam.) Fern. var. micrantha (Nutt.) Fern. by dividing the plant.
Divide the plant in the early spring or fall. Dig up the plant and gently separate the roots into smaller sections. Plant the divided sections in a well-draining growing medium and water them well. Keep them moist until new growth appears.
Overall, Draba reptans (Lam.) Fern. var. micrantha (Nutt.) Fern. is an easy plant to propagate and can be grown successfully through seeds, cuttings or division.
Disease and Pest Management for Draba Reptans (Lam.) Fern. Var. Micrantha (Nutt.) Fern.
Draba reptans (Lam.) Fern. var. micrantha (Nutt.) Fern. is generally a hardy plant with few disease and pest problems. However, there are a few potential problems that growers should be aware of. The following are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggestions for managing them.
Diseases
One of the diseases that Draba reptans is susceptible to is powdery mildew. This fungal disease is characterized by a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, growers should ensure that the plant is in a sunny location with good air circulation. If the disease is already present, spraying the plant with a mixture of water and baking soda can help to control it.
Another disease that can affect Draba reptans is root rot. This is a fungal disease that causes the roots of the plant to rot, which can eventually lead to the death of the plant. To prevent root rot, it is important to ensure that the plant is not overwatered and that the soil is well-draining. If root rot is present, the affected parts of the plant should be removed and the soil should be treated with a fungicide.
Pests
One of the pests that can affect Draba reptans is the flea beetle. These small, black beetles can cause significant damage to the leaves of the plant by chewing small holes in them. To manage flea beetles, growers can apply a layer of diatomaceous earth around the base of the plant or use a neem oil spray.
The aphid is another pest that can affect Draba reptans. These small insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage aphids, growers can use a soap and water spray or release beneficial insects such as ladybugs or lacewings.
Overall, by being vigilant and taking simple steps to prevent and manage disease and pest problems, growers can ensure that Draba reptans (Lam.) Fern. var. micrantha (Nutt.) Fern. remains a healthy and beautiful addition to any garden or landscape.
