Description of Hippophae L.
Hippophae L., also known as sea-buckthorn, is a species of deciduous shrub in the family Elaeagnaceae. This shrub is widespread in Asia and Europe, and it is known for its tolerance of various environmental conditions, being able to grow in high altitudes, rocky soils, and high salinity.
Common Names
The plant Hippophae L. is commonly referred to as sea-buckthorn, seaberry, sandthorn, sallowthorn, or simply buckthorn. In Chinese traditional medicine, the plant is also known as Sha-ji, which means 'sand chicken' due to its resemblance in color and texture to the meat of a chicken.
Uses
The sea-buckthorn plant has been used for medicinal and cosmetic purposes for centuries in Asia and Europe. Its leaves, berries, and oil are known for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties. The oil extracted from the plant is used in cosmetics to promote skin health and to treat skin conditions, such as acne and eczema. The berries, which are high in vitamin C, are used to make juices, jams, and teas, and are also used in traditional medicines to treat coughs, sore throats, and digestive problems. The plant is also being studied for its potential use in cancer prevention and treatment.
General Appearance
The Hippophae L. plant is a thorny shrub that can grow up to 6 meters in height. It has narrow, silver-green leaves, and the female plant produces clusters of orange or red berries that are oblong in shape. The berries are about the size of a pea and have a sour taste. The plant is often used for erosion control, as its extensive root system helps to stabilize soil and prevent landslides.
Growth Conditions of Hippophae L.
Hippophae L. is commonly known as sea buckthorn, a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Elaeagnaceae family. It is native to the regions of Europe and Asia, particularly in the Himalayan range. The plant requires specific growth conditions to thrive and produce its fruits, which are used in various applications such as medicine, skincare, and food.
Light
Sea buckthorn prefers to grow in areas with full sun exposure, although it can also tolerate partial shade. Direct sunlight is necessary for the plant's photosynthesis process, which converts light energy to chemical energy to support growth and development. Without adequate sunlight, the shrub may grow spindly and produce fewer fruits.
Temperature
The plant can tolerate different temperature ranges, from -43°C to 40°C, but prefers a cool to warm climate. Hippophae L. can withstand harsh winter conditions yet may experience frost damage when the temperature drops below -20°C. In contrast, the plant can develop sunscald or heat stress in extremely high temperatures. The optimal temperature for sea buckthorn growth is between 15°C and 25°C, with a relative humidity of 70-80%.
Soil
Hippophae L. can grow in various soil conditions, but it prefers well-drained soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil textures, from sandy to loamy, as long as it is not waterlogged. The sea buckthorn can also grow in nutrient-deficient soils, making it suitable for cultivation in marginal lands. However, it requires a balanced supply of essential nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and calcium, for improved plant growth and fruit yields.
Cultivation Methods
Hippophae L., commonly known as sea buckthorn, is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 6 meters tall. It is hardy and can adapt to various soil types, even including sand and saline soil. Sea buckthorn prefers a sunny and sheltered location, but it can tolerate partial shade. For optimal growth, the shrub needs well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Planting sea buckthorn in spring or autumn is ideal, providing the soil temperature stays above freezing. The recommended spacing between the plants is about 1.5 meters.
Watering Needs
Sea buckthorn is a drought-tolerant plant that does not require frequent watering. Once the plant is established, it can survive with natural rainfall. However, during periods of extended drought, additional watering may be necessary. When watering, it is crucial not to over-water the plant since it may cause the roots to rot.
Fertilization
Sea buckthorn does not require frequent fertilization, but a small amount of organic fertilizer can help improve soil fertility and promote plant growth. Add the fertilizer during the spring, just before the new growth starts. Be careful not to add too much fertilizer, as it can lead to excessive vegetative growth instead of increased fruit production.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for sea buckthorn shrubs to maintain their shape, encourage fruit production, and remove dead or diseased branches. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring, just before the new growth begins. Take care not to remove any of the branches that will produce fruits in the subsequent season. Remove any dead or damaged branches. To encourage the growth of new branches, prune young plants vigorously, leaving only a few strong stems. Established plants also benefit from regular pruning, about once every three to four years.
Propagation of Hippophae L.
Hippophae L., commonly known as sea buckthorn, is a deciduous shrub that has been widely accepted in different countries across the world due to its numerous health benefits. Propagation in Hippophae can be achieved through several methods including seeds, cuttings, layering, and grafting. The following are the propagation techniques for Hippophae;
Seed propagation
The most common and cheapest method of propagation in Hippophae is by seeds. Seeds require stratification before they can be sown. Stratification involves exposing seeds to a moist and cold environment to break dormancy. Stratification is done by mixing the seeds with equal parts of sand and storing them in the refrigerator for about 3-4 months. After stratification, sow the seeds in a nursery bed or potting soil and maintain a moist environment until germination, which takes about 2-4 weeks. Seedlings can be transplanted after two years.
Cutting propagation
Cutting propagation involves taking stem cuttings from the mother plant and planting them in a highly fertile soil mixture under a misting system. Spring and summer are the best seasons for cutting propagation. Dip the cut end of the cutting in rooting hormone and plant directly in the soil mixture. Maintain constant moisture by misting and ensure the cutting receives enough light. Cutting propagation has a high success rate compared to other methods.
Layering propagation
Layering propagation involves bending a low hanging branch of the mother plant to rest against the soil. The branch is then wounded gently to promote root growth and covered with soil, leaving the tip of the branch exposed. The branch will develop roots from the wounded regions and can be cut from the mother plant and planted as a new plant.
Grafting propagation
Grafting propagation is a complex and expensive method of propagation in Hippophae. The method involves selecting a rootstock and a scion with desired traits. The scion is then grafted onto the rootstock and allowed to grow for a period to form a union. Grafting is done in the early spring before the buds break dormancy.
Propagation in Hippophae L. may take time, but it is an achievable process through the use of seeds, cuttings, layering, and grafting. Each method requires different tools and techniques to achieve a high success rate.
Disease and Pest Management for Hippophae L.
Hippophae L., commonly known as sea buckthorn, is a deciduous shrub with a high tolerance for drought and poor soil conditions. It is grown for its numerous health benefits and is used in various industries, such as medicine, cosmetics, and food production. While sea buckthorn is a hardy plant, it can still fall prey to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and productivity.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect sea buckthorn is leaf spot. The fungus causes brown or grayish spots on the leaves, which can lead to defoliation and reduced fruit production. To manage leaf spot, it is essential to remove and destroy infected leaves, avoid overhead watering, and ensure adequate air circulation around the plant.
Another disease that affects sea buckthorn is powdery mildew. It is a fungal infection that appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves, twigs, and fruit. To control powdery mildew, it is essential to prune diseased branches, avoid overhead watering, improve air circulation, and provide adequate nutrition to the plant.
Common Pests
Sea buckthorn can also fall prey to various pests, such as aphids, spider mites, and fruit flies. Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, leading to stunted growth and reduced fruit production. To control aphids, it is essential to spray the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider mites are tiny pests that attack the underside of the leaves, causing discoloration and premature defoliation. To manage spider mites, it is essential to remove and destroy affected leaves, increase humidity around the plant, and apply a pesticide that targets mites.
Fruit flies can also be a problem for sea buckthorn growers as they lay their eggs on the fruit, leading to spoilage and reduced marketability. To control fruit flies, it is essential to use sticky traps, avoid over-ripened fruits, and practice proper hygiene when handling harvested fruits.
Conclusion
Disease and pest management are essential for the healthy growth and productivity of sea buckthorn plants. By identifying the common diseases and pests that affect the plant and implementing appropriate management practices, growers can ensure a bountiful harvest of healthy and high-quality fruits.
