Overview
Eriogonum wetherillii Eastw. is a perennial plant species that belongs to the family Polygonaceae. This plant is commonly known as Wetherill's buckwheat or Wetherill's eriogonum. The plant is native to North America, especially to the southwestern region of the United States.
Appearance
Wetherill's buckwheat is a low-growing plant, generally reaching a height of 5-30 cm. It has numerous small stems that arise from a woody base. The leaves of this plant are small, narrow, and typically hairy in texture. The flowers of this species are small and usually white or pink. The plant typically blooms from May to September.
Uses
Wetherill's buckwheat has several uses. The plant is used as an ornamental and is commonly grown in rock gardens. This plant species is also a good source of nectar for bees and butterflies. Additionally, Native American tribes used this plant for medicinal purposes, such as treating stomach and respiratory ailments. This plant is also used in ecological restoration projects because it is drought-resistant and can help prevent soil erosion.
Cultivation
Eriogonum wetherillii Eastw. can grow in a variety of soil types, including clay, sand, and gravel. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought conditions. This species grows well in full sun to partial shade. Wetherill's buckwheat can be propagated through seed or division. The plant can be grown from seed in the fall or early spring. Division of the plant can be done in the spring or early fall.
Light requirements
Eriogonum wetherillii Eastw. thrives in full sun exposure. It requires at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to grow and produce healthy foliage. The plant can tolerate some shade, but if shade is excessive, it may not bloom or flower to its full potential.
Temperature requirements
Eriogonum wetherillii Eastw. grows in USDA hardiness zones 7a through 10b. It highly prefers a warm climate with occasional cool temperatures. The ideal daytime temperature range for the plant is 70-80°F (21-27°C), while the nighttime range is between 40-50°F (4-10°C). Lower temperatures may stunt the growth of the plant, and higher temperatures may cause the plant to wilt.
Soil requirements
Eriogonum wetherillii Eastw. prefers well-draining soils that are sandy, rocky, or gravelly. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, with a range of 6.0 to 7.5 being ideal. The plant requires moderate to low amounts of water and cannot tolerate wet or waterlogged soils. It can grow on soils that are rich in organic matter as long as the drainage is adequate.
Cultivation:
Eriogonum wetherillii Eastw., also known as Wetherill's buckwheat, is a hardy perennial plant that can grow in various soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The plant prefers full sun exposure and requires a well-drained soil that is not consistently wet. It can be propagated through seeds, which should be planted in late winter or early spring.
Watering Needs:
After planting, the plant should be kept moist, and the soil should not be allowed to dry out completely. Once the plant is established, it is quite drought-tolerant, and the plant should be watered only when the soil is dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems, so it's important to give it proper drainage.
Fertilization:
Eriogonum wetherillii Eastw. does not require heavy fertilization during its growth. However, adding a slow-release fertilizer or compost to the soil before planting can provide the necessary nutrients for the plant's growth. In general, a light application of fertilizers like 5-10-10 or 10-10-10 in the spring season may help the plant to thrive.
Pruning:
Pruning can be necessary to improve the plant's appearance, promote bushier growth or maintain its size. The plant blooms on its own from mid to late summer, so pruning should be done in the early spring, late fall or winter season before the onset of blooming. The dead blooms should be removed from the plant to discourage wilt diseases from spreading
Propagation of Eriogonum wetherillii Eastw.
Eriogonum wetherillii Eastw. can be propagated through seeds or vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
Seeds should be collected from the plant during its growing season and should be sown in the fall or early spring. The seeds should be lightly covered with soil and kept moist until germination. Germination can take a few weeks to several months, depending on the conditions.
Once the seedlings have grown a few leaves, they can be transplanted to individual pots or directly into the garden bed. The soil should be well-draining and the plants should be given regular water until they are established.
Vegetative Propagation
Eriogonum wetherillii Eastw. can also be propagated through cuttings or division.
To propagate through cuttings, select a healthy stem from the plant and cut it to a length of about 4-6 inches. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the stem and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and keep it moist until it begins to root. This process can take several weeks to a few months.
To propagate through division, carefully dig up the plant and separate it into sections. Each section should have some roots attached. Replant each section in a well-draining soil mix and keep it moist until it becomes established.
Disease and Pest Management for Eriogonum wetherillii Eastw.
Eriogonum wetherillii Eastw. is a hardy and disease-resistant plant, but like all plants, it still needs proper care and maintenance to keep it healthy and thriving. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Powdery mildew: This is a common fungal disease that affects many types of plants, including Eriogonum wetherillii. It appears as a gray or white powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, you can spray the plant with a fungicidal spray or make a solution of water and baking soda and spray it on the affected areas.
Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and poor drainage and can cause the plant's roots to rot and die, resulting in stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and wilting. To manage root rot, you need to improve the soil drainage by adding organic matter or using a raised bed. Avoid overwatering the plant and ensure the soil is well-draining.
Pests
Spider mites: These tiny pests can infest the plants, sucking the sap from the leaves, and causing yellowing and browning. To manage spider mites, you can spray the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil. Also, keep the plant well-watered to prevent the infestation.
Aphids: These pests are small and green or black insects that suck the sap from the plant's leaves. They can cause curling and yellowing of the leaves, stunted growth, and wilting. To manage aphids, you can spray the plant with a solution of water and dish soap or neem oil. You can also introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs to eat the aphids.
Regular inspection of the plant for any signs of disease or pest infestation can help in early detection and management of the problem. Always use organic methods of management, like using beneficial insects or natural sprays, to avoid any harm to the environment or the plant.
