Overview
Kalmia polifolia Wangenh. ssp. microphylla (Hook.) Calder & Taylor is a small evergreen shrub commonly known as bog laurel or bog kalmia. It is native to North America and can be found in wetlands and bogs throughout much of the continent, from Alaska to Newfoundland to the eastern United States. It belongs to the family Ericaceae, which includes many common plants such as blueberry, cranberry, and rhododendron.Appearance
Bog laurel is a low-growing shrub with slender branches that can reach up to 3 feet in height. Its leaves are evergreen, simple, and alternate, and are about 1 inch long and 0.25 inches wide. The leaves are a dark green color on top and lighter underneath, with a slight sheen to them. The flowers are pink to white, appear in dense clusters at the end of the branches, and bloom in late spring to early summer. The fruit is a small capsule that remains on the plant into the fall.Uses
Bog laurel has no significant culinary or medicinal uses. However, it is popular among landscape designers for its attractive foliage and flowers, and its ability to grow in wet soils makes it an ideal plant for rain gardens or other boggy landscapes. It is also sometimes used in floral arrangements. It should be noted that all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested and can cause vomiting, convulsions, and other serious symptoms. Therefore, it should be kept away from children, pets, and livestock.Cultivation
Bog laurel is a hardy plant that prefers moist, acidic soils and partial to full shade. It will not tolerate dry or alkaline soils. It can be propagated from seeds, cuttings, or layering, and should be planted in the spring or fall. Once established, it requires little maintenance and can be pruned after flowering to control its shape.Growth Conditions for Kalmia polifolia Wangenh. ssp. microphylla (Hook.) Calder & Taylor
Light: Kalmia polifolia ssp. microphylla grows well in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate shade but does better in partial shade to full sun.
Temperature: The plant prefers cool climates and can tolerate frost. It grows well at an average temperature of 15-20°C but can survive down to -40°C.
Soil: Kalmia polifolia ssp. microphylla prefers moist, well-drained, acidic soils. The soil should have a pH ranging between 4.5-6.5. It can tolerate some soil variations but prefers acidic soils.
Water: The plant needs frequent watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot and poor growth.
Fertilizer: Kalmia polifolia ssp. microphylla does not require fertilizer but benefits from occasional feedings during the growing season. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be applied in early spring to promote growth.
Pruning: Pruning is not necessary for Kalmia polifolia ssp. microphylla but can be done to maintain a desired size or shape. Pruning should be done immediately after flowering to avoid cutting off the buds for the next year's flowers.
Cultivation Methods
Kalmia polifolia Wangenh. ssp. microphylla (Hook.) Calder & Taylor is a hardy plant that can be grown in full sun or partial shade. It prefers moist soil that is well-drained and rich in organic matter. This plant is perfect for gardens with a moist, acidic soil, and is an excellent choice for butterfly and bird gardens.
Propagation of Kalmia polifolia Wangenh. ssp. microphylla (Hook.) Calder & Taylor can be done through seeds, cuttings, or by dividing the plant. Seedlings will require a lot of care, including regular watering and fertilization, but the mature plant is relatively low maintenance.
Watering Needs
Kalmia polifolia Wangenh. ssp. microphylla (Hook.) Calder & Taylor requires regular watering, especially during periods of drought. The plant prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged, as excessive water can lead to root rot.
It is essential to water the plant deeply, ensuring the water reaches the roots and not just the surface of the soil. If the plant is in a container, it is crucial to ensure that the water drainage is excellent to avoid waterlogged soil.
Fertilization
Kalmia polifolia Wangenh. ssp. microphylla (Hook.) Calder & Taylor requires periodic fertilization to provide the necessary nutrients for growth. Fertilizer should be applied during the growing season, primarily if the plant appears to be struggling.
A good option is a slow-release fertilizer that can provide adequate nourishment for an extended period. The pH of the soil needs to be acidic, so applying an acidic fertilizer is the best option.
Pruning
Kalmia polifolia Wangenh. ssp. microphylla (Hook.) Calder & Taylor requires minimal pruning, but deadhead the flowers to help maintain the plant's appearance. The ideal time to prune this plant is during late winter or early spring before the plant resumes growth.
To avoid damaging or cutting off new growth, it is essential to use sharp pruning tools when cutting. Any stems or branches that are damaged, weak, or diseased should be removed immediately to prevent further damage to the plant.
Propagation methods for Kalmia polifolia Wangenh. ssp. microphylla (Hook.) Calder & Taylor
Kalmia polifolia Wangenh. ssp. microphylla (Hook.) Calder & Taylor, commonly known as bog laurel, is a shrub native to North America. It is a small evergreen plant that typically grows in boggy areas, swamps, and wetlands. Propagation of Kalmia polifolia Wangenh. ssp. microphylla can be done by seeds or cuttings.
Propagation by seeds
The seeds of Kalmia polifolia Wangenh. ssp. microphylla can be collected in the fall. They should be kept moist and cold for 30-60 days before planting. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix and keep them moist. Germination can take up to two years.
Propagation by cuttings
Kalmia polifolia Wangenh. ssp. microphylla can also be propagated by cuttings. The best time to take the cuttings is in the early summer when the new growth is still soft. Take 4-6 inches of stem cuttings and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and place the cuttings in a shaded area. Rooting can take up to 6-8 weeks.
