Origin and Common Names
Hippophae rhamnoides turkestanica, commonly known as Turkestan Sea Buckthorn, is a deciduous shrub native to the regions of Central Asia, such as Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. It is a member of the Elaeagnaceae family and closely related to the common sea buckthorn plant found in Europe and Asia.
General Appearance and Characteristics
The Turkestan Sea Buckthorn shrub can reach up to six meters in height and spread up to four meters wide. Its leaves are bright silver-green, lanceolate, and grow up to ten centimeters in length. The plant is dioecious, meaning that there are individual male and female plants with small, greenish-yellow flowers that appear in late spring and early summer. The female plants produce small, yellow-orange fruits that are edible and rich in vitamins and minerals.
Uses
The Turkestan Sea Buckthorn plant has both medicinal value and is commonly used in landscaping projects. The plant's leaves and berries have been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, from indigestion to skin conditions. The fruit also makes a delicious and healthy juice, and the oil from its seeds is used in cosmetic products and as a dietary supplement. In landscaping, the plant is used as a hedge or to add interest to natural areas with its bright leaves and ornamental fruits.
Overall, Hippophae rhamnoides turkestanica is a versatile plant that is both ornamental and beneficial to human health. Its unique characteristics make it a great addition to any garden or landscape project.Growth Conditions for Hippophae rhamnoides turkestanica
Hippophae rhamnoides turkestanica is a plant native to Central Asia and can grow up to 3 meters tall. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of soil and weather conditions. However, for optimal growth, the following factors should be taken into consideration:
Light Requirements
Hippophae rhamnoides turkestanica prefers full sun exposure for at least 6 hours per day. This plant can tolerate some shade although it will not grow as vigorously. Therefore, it is essential to plant this species in an open area where it will receive direct sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Hippophae rhamnoides turkestanica is a cold-hardy plant that can withstand extreme temperatures ranging from -30°C to 40°C. However, it thrives in areas with a mean annual temperature range of 15-25°C. Extreme hot or cold temperatures can affect its growth and survival rate.
Soil Requirements
The Hippophae rhamnoides turkestanica plant thrives in well-drained sandy-loam or loamy-textured soils that are slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.5). The soil should also be nutrient-rich, with high organic matter content, and have good water-holding capacity. The ideal soil depth for planting this species is at least 50 cm.
The optimum soil moisture content for Hippophae rhamnoides turkestanica is around 50-60% field capacity. The plant cannot tolerate waterlogged conditions, so it is essential to avoid areas with poor drainage. Irrigation may be necessary during the dry season to maintain optimal moisture levels.
It is important to note that this plant has a deep-rooting system, reaching up to 2 meters in the soil. This deep-rooted system allows Hippophae rhamnoides turkestanica to access water and nutrients in deeper soil layers, making it a drought-resistant species.
Cultivation Methods
Hippophae rhamnoides turkestanica, commonly known as Turkistan sea buckthorn, is a deciduous shrub that typically grows to a height of 2-5 meters. This shrub thrives in a wide range of soil types, from well-drained sandy soils to heavy clay loams. To cultivate Hippophae rhamnoides turkestanica, you should choose a planting location that receives full sun exposure. The shrub prefers warm and moderately humid climatic conditions to grow optimally. Prepare the soil by digging a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball.Watering Needs
For successful cultivation of Hippophae rhamnoides turkestanica, it requires adequate water throughout the growing season. This shrub requires regular watering, especially during the first few years after planting, to establish a deep root system. In dry weather, watering should be done at least once a week. Overwatering, particularly in poorly drained soils, may rot the roots or cause other diseases. Therefore, it is essential to maintain a balance in the watering process.Fertilization
Hippophae rhamnoides turkestanica performs best when grown in rich and well-fertilized soils. A balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10 or 20-20-20, should be applied in the early spring season. The fertilizer should be applied around the shrub's dripline, where the majority of the feeder roots are. Organic fertilizers such as compost and well-rotted manure can also be applied to provide a continuous supply of the required nutrients. When using organic matter, it should be applied in the fall to allow decomposition to occur before the spring planting season.Pruning
To keep Hippophae rhamnoides turkestanica healthy and productive, pruning is essential. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before the growing season begins. It is recommended to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Also, remove the lower branches to create sufficient airflow at the base of the shrub, which helps prevent disease. Pruning should always result in a well-balanced shape of shrubs or trees. Regular pruning will enhance the overall productivity, growth, and appearance of the shrub.Propagation of Hippophae rhamnoides turkestanica
Hippophae rhamnoides turkestanica is a hardy and resilient plant that can be propagated in various ways. Some of the commonly used propagation methods are discussed below:
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Hippophae rhamnoides turkestanica can be easily collected from the fruit during the harvesting season. The seeds should be cleaned and dried before sowing. They can be sown directly into the soil or in seed trays filled with a suitable growing medium. For best results, it is recommended to sow the seeds in the fall or early spring. The seedlings should be transplanted into their final position when they are strong enough to establish themselves.
Cutting Propagation
Another popular propagation method for Hippophae rhamnoides turkestanica is through cuttings. This method involves taking a piece of stem or branch from a well-established plant and planting it in soil. The cuttings should be taken from the previous year's growth and should be about 20-25 cm long. The base of the cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone to encourage rooting and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be kept moist and in a sheltered spot until they have taken root.
Layering Propagation
Layering is another method of propagation for Hippophae rhamnoides turkestanica. This method involves bending a stem or branch of a mature plant and covering it with soil or a suitable growing medium. The covered stem will produce roots and can be separated from the parent plant once it has established itself. This method is particularly useful for plants that are difficult to propagate through other means.
Disease and Pest Management of Hippophae rhamnoides turkestanica
As a valuable medicinal and fruit plant, Hippophae rhamnoides turkestanica is affected by a moderate range of pests and diseases that can reduce the yield and quality of the plant. Hence, proper disease and pest management are required to maintain optimum growth and productivity of the plant.
Common Diseases
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is the most common fungal disease that affects the plant. The disease is caused by several fungal species, including Septoria hippophae. Symptoms of the disease are small, gray or brown spots on the leaves, often surrounded by a yellow halo. Leaf spots may drop out, leaving small holes. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and spray with a fungicide.
Rust: Rust disease is another fungal disease that affects the plant. The disease is characterized by the presence of orange to black-colored spores on the leaves. Rust disease can cause the plant's leaves to become yellow and fall prematurely. To control rust, remove affected plant parts and apply a fungicide.
Viral Diseases: Different viruses such as BBI virus, Camelina mosaic virus, and Sea buckthorn mosaic virus can infect Hippophae rhamnoides turkestanica plant leading to several symptoms. The virus can infect plants through mechanical injury or insect vectors. Unfortunately, no effective way to control viral diseases is available. Therefore, the best option is to remove infected plants immediately to prevent the virus's spread.
Common Pests
Aphids: Aphids are the most common insect pests that attack the plant and cause serious damage by sucking the sap from the leaves. The aphids can transmit several diseases, including Sea buckthorn mosaic virus, which can cause severe damage to the plant. To control aphids, use insecticidal soap or spray with neem oil.
Spider Mites: Spider mites may look small, but they can do significant damage to the plant by feeding on the leaves' underside. Infested leaves may turn yellow or have a stippled appearance. To control spider mites, use insecticidal soap or an appropriate pesticide.
Leafhoppers: Leafhoppers cause the leaves to curl and become deformed by sucking the plant's sap. The pests also transmit various diseases, including the Sea buckthorn vein mosaic virus, lead to a drastic reduction in the plant's yield. To manage leafhoppers, remove the affected plant parts and interplant with other insect repelling plants.
Finally, it is also essential to follow good cultural practices that involve sanitation, pruning, and fertilization to keep the plant healthy and free from diseases and pests.
