Overview
Draba verna L. var. major Stur, also known as spring draba, is a small perennial plant that belongs to the mustard family (Brassicaceae). It is native to Eurasia, including parts of Europe and western Asia, but has now spread to other parts of the world, including North America.
Appearance
Spring draba grows up to six inches tall and has basal leaves that form a rosette. The leaves are small, oblong, and have a dark green color. The plant produces small white or pale yellow flowers that are only a few millimeters in diameter. The flowers have four petals and are arranged in clusters at the end of the stem.
Common Names
Spring draba has several common names, including giant yellow draba, larger whitlow-grass, and rock whitlow-grass.
Uses
Spring draba has traditionally been used in herbal medicine for its antifungal and antibacterial properties. It has also been used to treat respiratory ailments such as bronchitis and asthma. In addition, it is sometimes used as a food source for livestock and wildlife.
Typical Growth Conditions for Draba verna L. var. major Stur
Draba verna L. var. major Stur, also known as the spring whitlow-grass, is a herbaceous plant species belonging to the Brassicaceae family. This plant is commonly found in the mountainous regions of Europe, including the Alps, Pyrenees, and Carpathians. The plant is characterized by its small, white, four-petaled flowers that bloom in early spring.
Light Requirements
Draba verna L. var. major Stur requires full sun to grow and thrive. The plant needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day. This plant cannot tolerate partial shade or full shade.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for the growth of Draba verna L. var. major Stur is between 15°C and 20°C. However, this plant can tolerate temperatures as low as -25°C and as high as 30°C. The plant is frost hardy and can grow in colder climates.
Soil Requirements
Draba verna L. var. major Stur prefers well-draining, sandy or loamy soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and should not be waterlogged. It can grow in rocky soil and is often found growing in gravelly places in the wild.
It is important to note that Draba verna L. var. major Stur does not tolerate heavy soils or soils with high clay content. The plant also dislikes excessively wet soils, which can cause root rot and other fungal diseases.
Cultivation of Draba verna L. var. major Stur
Draba verna L. var. major Stur is an ornamental plant that is relatively easy to cultivate. The plant is a low-growing, tufted perennial that forms mat-like patches.
It prefers well-drained soils with moderate moisture. The plant grows well in full sun or partial shade and can tolerate extreme temperatures.
Watering Needs
Draba verna L. var. major Stur does not require frequent watering. Over-irrigation can lead to root rot, which can kill the plant. In general, watering once or twice a week during the growing season is sufficient. During dry periods, the plant requires more water.
Fertilization
Fertilization should be done sparingly as excessive fertilization can damage the plant. One application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season is sufficient.
It is important to avoid fertilizing the plant during the dormant season and to avoid fertilizers that contain high levels of nitrogen.
Pruning
Draba verna L. var. major Stur does not require frequent pruning. However, you can cut back the plant after flowering to encourage new growth and prevent the plant from becoming too dense.
Deadheading spent blooms throughout the growing season can also encourage the plant to produce more flowers.
Propagation of Draba verna L. var. major Stur
Draba verna L. var. major Stur, commonly known as the spring whitlowgrass, is a small alpine plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. Propagating this plant can be done through several methods, including:
Seed propagation
The most common propagation method for Draba verna L. var. major Stur is through seed propagation. The plant produces small, cylindrical seed pods that contain numerous seeds. The best time to sow the seeds is in the early spring when the temperature is cooler. The seeds should be sown into a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until they germinate, which usually takes between one to three weeks.
Cuttings propagation
Propagation through cuttings can also be done but is less common compared to seed propagation. This method involves taking stem cuttings from mature plants early in the growing season. The cutting should be around 2-3 inches long and should be taken with a clean, sharp blade. Remove the lower leaves and plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and warm until roots develop, which may take around four to six weeks.
Division propagation
Division propagation involves dividing the root ball of an established plant into smaller sections, and it is suitable for plants that have outgrown their pot or garden bed. The best time to divide the plant is in the early spring or late summer. Carefully remove the plant from its pot or garden bed and divide the root ball into sections, ensuring that each has enough roots and foliage. Replant the sections in individual pots or garden beds with a well-draining soil mix and keep it moist until new growth appears.
Overall, Draba verna L. var. major Stur can be propagated through seed, cuttings, and division. The propagation method used will depend on the gardener's preference, the availability of planting material, and the resources they have at their disposal.
Disease management
Draba verna L. var. major Stur is generally considered to be a hardy plant, but can be susceptible to a few diseases. Here are some common diseases that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Clubroot
Clubroot is caused by a soil-borne pathogen and can lead to stunted growth, wilting, and yellowing of leaves. To manage clubroot, avoid planting in infected soil and sanitize tools to prevent spread. Plant-resistant varieties if available.
Downy Mildew
Downy mildew can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves and can be caused by cool, wet conditions. To manage downy mildew, ensure plants are properly spaced for good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Pest management
While Draba verna L. var. major Stur is relatively pest-resistant, there are a few pests that may cause damage. Here are some common pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Flea Beetles
Flea beetles can cause small holes in leaves and can be managed through the use of floating row covers, sticky traps, and insecticidal soap.
Slugs and snails
Slugs and snails can feed on leaves and can be managed through the use of copper barriers, handpicking, and the use of iron phosphate-based baits.
