Origin
Fragaria sandwicensis Dcne. is a species of flowering plant belonging to the Rosaceae family. It is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands and can be found growing on all the major islands in the archipelago.
Common Names
The common names for Fragaria sandwicensis include Hawaiian strawberry, alpine strawberry, and 'ilima berries.
Uses
The fruit of the Fragaria sandwicensis plant is edible and has traditionally been used by Native Hawaiians for medicinal and culinary purposes. The fruit has a sweet and tangy flavor, making it a popular ingredient in jams, jellies, and desserts. The plant is also commonly used in landscaping as a groundcover due to its low-growing habit and attractive foliage.
General Appearance
Fragaria sandwicensis is a perennial herb that grows in a rosette form. It has trifoliate leaves that are dark green and glossy with serrated margins. The plant produces small, white or pink flowers that give way to bright red, juicy fruit that resembles a small strawberry. The fruit is about the size of a blueberry and has tiny seeds on its surface. The plant typically grows to be around 6 inches tall and spreads by means of runners.
Light Requirements
Fragaria sandwicensis Dcne. grows best in full sun to partial shade conditions. It requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. The leaves may turn yellowish-green in shade and become stunted.
Temperature Requirements
Fragaria sandwicensis Dcne. grows well in a wide range of temperature conditions. The plant can tolerate temperatures as high as 85? and as low as 15?. However, it grows optimally in temperatures between 60-75?. Extreme temperatures may slow down growth or cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Fragaria sandwicensis Dcne. prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter and nutrients. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH, but a slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5-6.5 is optimum. The soil must also be moist but not waterlogged, as waterlogged soil can lead to root rot.
Cultivation of Fragaria sandwicensis Dcne.
When cultivating Fragaria sandwicensis Dcne., it is important to choose a planting location with well-draining soil and access to full sunlight. The ideal soil pH range for this plant is between 5.5 and 6.5.
Propagation is typically done through seeds or runners. Seeds should be sowed in a well-prepared seedbed and kept moist until they germinate. Runners can be rooted directly in the ground or in pots filled with sterile potting soil.
Spacing is also crucial when growing Fragaria sandwicensis Dcne. They should be planted 6-10 inches apart, with rows being 2-3 feet apart.
Watering Needs
The plants should be frequently watered until they are established, after which they will require less water but still need consistent moisture. Watering should occur at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the leaves and causing diseases.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization is necessary to ensure proper growth and development of Fragaria sandwicensis Dcne. Strawberry-specific fertilizers are optimal, and should be applied every four to six weeks during the growing season. It is important to follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging to prevent overfeeding which can lead to problems like burned roots and stunted growth.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to increase the yield and quality of the fruit. Dead, damaged, or diseased leaves and runners should be removed immediately. Runners that are emerging from the plant should also be trimmed to maximize the energy available to the fruit-bearing plants. It is also important to remove any flowers that appear on the plant during the first year of growth to ensure the plant's energy is focused on establishing strong roots.
Propagation of Fragaria sandwicensis Dcne.
Fragaria sandwicensis Dcne. is a plant species that can be propagated through different methods, including:
Seed Propagation
One way to propagate Fragaria sandwicensis Dcne. is by sowing its seeds. The plants produce small berries that contain the seeds. After collecting the berries, remove the flesh and clean the seeds. Sow them in seedling trays or pots, filled with a well-draining potting mix. Cover the seeds lightly and keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Keep the trays or pots in a sunny location and maintain a temperature of around 70°F. The seeds should germinate in about two to three weeks.
Runner Propagation
Another propagation method for Fragaria sandwicensis Dcne. is by using its runners. The runners are long stems that emerge from the plant and produce small plantlets at their tips. To propagate using runners, locate a healthy runner that has plantlets growing from it. Use sharp, clean scissors to cut the plantlet from the runner, making sure it has some roots attached. Plant the plantlet in a separate container or directly in the garden bed. Water the plantlet regularly and keep it in a shaded area until it establishes roots.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is also a method that can be used to propagate Fragaria sandwicensis Dcne. This method is best used for mature plants that have formed multiple crowns. Dig up the plant carefully and remove the excess soil from the roots. Gently pull the plant apart, making sure that each section has enough roots attached. Replant the divided sections in separate containers or directly in the garden bed. Water the divided plants regularly and keep them shaded until they establish roots.
Disease and Pest Management for Fragaria sandwicensis Dcne.
Fragaria sandwicensis Dcne., also known as Hawaiian strawberry, is a rare and endangered species of strawberry native to the Hawaiian Islands. Like other plants, it is susceptible to diseases and pests that can affect its growth and yield. Therefore, it is essential to implement effective disease and pest management strategies to ensure the plant's health and vigor.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Fragaria sandwicensis Dcne. is powdery mildew. This fungal disease is characterized by a white, powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. It can affect the plant's ability to photosynthesize and ultimately reduce its yield.
Another common disease is verticillium wilt, caused by the fungus Verticillium dahliae. This disease can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves, stunted growth, and reduced yield. It can also persist in the soil for many years, making it difficult to manage.
Disease Management
To manage powdery mildew, it is important to maintain good plant hygiene. Remove infected leaves and stems and dispose of them in the trash, not compost. It is also essential to promote good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering, which can create favorable conditions for the disease to thrive. If the disease persists, fungicides can be applied, following the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
To manage verticillium wilt, it is crucial to avoid planting Fragaria sandwicensis Dcne. in soil where the disease has previously been present. Crop rotation can also help to reduce the risk of infection. In severe cases, fungicides may be used, but they are often not very effective.
Common Pests
Fragaria sandwicensis Dcne. is susceptible to several pests, including aphids, spider mites, and strawberry weevils. These pests can damage the plant by feeding on the leaves, stems, and fruits and spreading diseases.
Pest Management
To manage aphids and spider mites, it is essential to monitor the plants regularly and take action at the first sign of infestation. Use a strong stream of water to dislodge the pests from the plant or apply organic insecticides, such as neem oil or insecticidal soap.
To manage strawberry weevils, it is crucial to remove any fallen fruit and debris from around the plants and apply a straw mulch to reduce the weevils' access to the soil. In severe cases, insecticides may be needed, but they should be used sparingly and following the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
Overall, effective disease and pest management for Fragaria sandwicensis Dcne. involve maintaining good plant hygiene, promoting good air circulation, avoiding planting in infected soil, monitoring for pests regularly, and using organic and chemical controls when necessary. By implementing these strategies, it is possible to reduce the risk of diseases and pests and ensure the plant's health and productivity.
