Overview
Hedysarum boreale Nutt. ssp. mackenziei (Richards.) Welsh, also known as Northern sweetvetch or Arctic sweetvetch, is a flowering plant species in the family Fabaceae. This plant is native to North America and is especially common in the Arctic and Subarctic regions.
Appearance
The Northern sweetvetch plant typically grows up to 25–50 cm in height and produces hairy stems with numerous closely spaced leaves. The leaves are pinnately compound and have 1-5 pairs of leaflets. The flowers are pink to violet in color and form dense spikes at the end of the stems. The fruit is a flattened pod containing several seeds.
Uses
Hedysarum boreale Nutt. ssp. mackenziei has traditionally been used by Indigenous people for food, medicine, and clothing. The roots and seeds of this plant are high in protein and have been consumed boiled, roasted, or dried by Indigenous people. In addition, the roots were used to treat sore throats, coughs, and colds. The plant's fibrous stems were used to make cords and strings for sewing and to make baskets and other woven items.
Today, Northern sweetvetch is used for ecological restoration, as it has the ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, which makes it beneficial for soil fertility. This plant is also used as a forage plant for honeybees and livestock.
Light Requirements
Hedysarum boreale Nutt. ssp. mackenziei (Richards.) Welsh typically thrives well in partial shade conditions. It requires a minimum of three hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth. Too much direct sunlight may lead to leaf burn.
Soil Requirements
The plant can tolerate a variety of soils, including loam, sand, and clay. However, moist but well-draining soils with a pH range of 6.0-8.0 are ideal. Soil organic matter content should also be relatively high, typically 3-4% to facilitate its optimal growth and development.
Water Requirements
These plants require moderate watering, particularly during the growing season. During extremely dry periods, the plant may appear wilted, requiring frequent watering. However, excessive watering should be avoided as it can promote root rot, which can be detrimental to the plant's growth and development.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can thrive in a relatively wide range of temperatures, between 20-24°C. These plants can tolerate mild frost conditions, although they may not develop optimally under such conditions. During the winter period, the plant, particularly its roots, require a certain level of protection from the cold, which can be achieved through mulching or providing an extra layer of organic matter on the soil's surface.
Cultivation Methods:
Hedysarum boreale Nutt. ssp. mackenziei (Richards.) Welsh or Mackenzie Hedysarum can be grown from seed or propagated through division of the roots. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay, sand, and loam, but it should not be waterlogged.
Watering Needs:
Mackenzie Hedysarum needs regular watering during the growing season, especially during the first year. It prefers moist soil but will suffer if it is waterlogged. So, it is best to water the plant deeply and let the soil dry partially before watering it again. In the winter, reduce watering to once a month to avoid overwatering.
Fertilization:
It is recommended to fertilize Mackenzie Hedysarum in the early spring before new growth appears. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Follow the directions on the package for application rates. Too much fertilizer can cause excessive vegetative growth, so be careful not to over fertilize.
Pruning:
Prune Mackenzie Hedysarum in the early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead or damaged material and cut back any old growth to promote new growth. The plant has a deep root system, so do not disturb the roots while pruning. Regular pruning will help to keep the plant healthy and vigorous.
Propagation of Hedysarum boreale Nutt. ssp. mackenziei (Richards.) Welsh
Hedysarum boreale Nutt. ssp. mackenziei (Richards.) Welsh or the Mackenzie River sweetvetch, is a hardy plant that is commonly found in Alaska, Canada, and Northern regions of the United States. The plant is known to be easily propagated by seeds, divisions, cuttings, and layering.
Propagation by Seeds
Seed propagation is the most common and easiest method used to propagate this plant. The seeds are collected in late summer, dried, and stored in a cool and dry place till spring. In the spring, the seeds can be directly planted into the ground, into pots, or trays. Sow seeds just below the soil surface in loose, well-draining soil and keep moist until germination which usually takes 2-4 weeks.
Propagation by Division
Divisions can be made in early spring or fall. Gently dig up the plant, and then carefully divide the root ball into small sections, making sure each section has some roots. Replant these sections into a well-draining soil mixture and water well to ensure proper establishment.
Propagation by Cuttings
Taking cuttings is a good way to propagate Hedysarum boreale Nutt. ssp. mackenziei (Richards.) Welsh when the plant has grown too large or to create more plants. Cuttings can be taken from June to August. Cut 6-inch long stems that are 1-2 years old and have several leaves attached. Root the cuttings in a well-draining soil mixture and keep them in a humid environment. Roots should develop within 3-4 weeks.
Propagation by Layering
Layering is another method of propagation that is ideal for Hedysarum boreale Nutt. ssp. mackenziei (Richards.) Welsh. Select a low-growing branch and bury it in the soil with the help of a wire or clothespin, leaving the tip of the branch above the soil surface. Keep the soil moist and well-draining. In 6-12 months the branch will develop roots, at which point it can be separated from the original plant and planted in a permanent location.
Disease and Pest Management of Hedysarum boreale Nutt. ssp. mackenziei (Richards.) Welsh
Like other plants, Hedysarum boreale Nutt. ssp. mackenziei (Richards.) Welsh is also susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases. Effective management of these factors is essential to ensure the sustained growth and survival of these plants. Here are some common pests and diseases that could affect Hedysarum boreale and some ways to manage them:
Pests
Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can form colonies on the new growth of the plant, causing stunted growth and discoloration of leaves. A strong spray of water can help remove these pests from the plant. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be used to control aphids. It's essential to check back regularly and reapply the remedy if necessary.
Cutworms: Cutworms are larvae of several moth species and are commonly found in the soil near the plant. These pests feed on the base of the plant, sometimes damaging the structure of the entire stem. Placing a collar made of cardboard or aluminum foil around the base of the plant can help keep cutworms away. Nematodes, beneficial insects that feed on cutworms, can also be introduced to the soil.
Diseases
Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that primarily affects plants cultivated in poorly drained soils. This disease causes the plant's roots to rot, leading to stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To control root rot, ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering. Fungicides and removing infected plants can also be effective measures.
Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that usually affects the leaves of the plant. The fungus presents as a whitish-gray powdery coating on the leaves, reducing photosynthesis and causing yellowing or browning of the leaves. Applying sulfur or fungicidal soap sprays can be helpful in controlling powdery mildew. Proper spacing and good air circulation around the plant will also help to avoid this type of disease.
Hedysarum boreale Nutt. ssp. mackenziei (Richards.) Welsh is valuable for its medicinal properties and wildlife habitat in arid regions, so managing pests and diseases is important to ensure the health and survival of these plants. Always take regular care to monitor and apply corrected measures in a timely manner.
