Overview
Lappa major Gaertner, also known as great burdock, is a biennial plant that is part of the Asteraceae family. It typically grows in Eurasia, but is now prevalent in other parts of the world as well.
General Appearance
The plant has a robust, coarse stem that can reach up to 6 feet in height. Its leaves are large, with a heart-shaped base and a wavy margin. The plant bears purple flowers that bloom from June to October, and these give way to prickly burrs that stick to clothing and animal fur.
Common Names
Besides great burdock, this plant is also known as edible burdock, lappa, cloth burdock, happy major, and fox's clote.
Uses
The roots, leaves, and seeds of Lappa Major Gaertner have long been used for medicinal purposes. It is said to be an excellent blood purifier, and is used to treat skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis. It can also be used to increase urine output, stimulate the digestive system, and promote lactation in breastfeeding mothers. In traditional Chinese medicine, the dried root of this plant is known as Niu Bang Zi, and is used to treat colds and flu. Apart from its medicinal uses, it is also cultivated for its edible roots and stems. The young stalks can be eaten raw or cooked, while the roots can be boiled or pickled.
Growth Conditions of Lappa Major Gaertner
Light: Lappa major Gaertner plant requires full sunlight to grow well. It can also tolerate partial shade, but it grows best under direct sunlight. Full sunlight helps the plant to produce more flowers, which in turn increases the yield of the plant.
Temperature: The optimal temperature range for the growth of Lappa major Gaertner is between 18°C to 27°C. These plants are frost-sensitive and cannot withstand extreme cold or heat. If exposed to extreme temperatures, their growth can be stunted, and the plant may even die.
Soil: The Lappa major Gaertner plant prefers well-drained, fertile soil that is slightly acidic. The soil should also be rich in organic matter to promote the growth of the plant. The plant can grow in different types of soils like sandy, loamy, or clayey soil, but it grows best in soil that is rich in nutrients, moisture, and organic matter. The plant can also grow well in soil that has a pH range between 5.5 to 7.0.
Water: The Lappa major Gaertner plant requires regular watering, especially during its growth phase. The soil should be kept moist but not water-logged as excess water can cause root rot, which can ultimately kill the plant. It is recommended to water the plant once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions and soil type.
Fertilizer: The Lappa major Gaertner plant requires regular fertilization to promote its growth and health. The ideal fertilizer for the plant is one that is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It is ideal to fertilize the plant every four weeks during its growth phase.
Air Humidity: The Lappa major Gaertner plant can adapt to different air humidities, but it grows best in areas with moderate humidity. High humidity can cause fungal and bacterial diseases, while low humidity can lead to stress and slow growth of the plant.
Propagation: The Lappa major Gaertner plant can be propagated by seeds or rhizome division. The seeds should be planted in well-prepared soil, and the rhizomes should be carefully divided and planted in their individual pots or beds.
Cultivation methods
Lappa major Gaertner, commonly known as Greater Burdock, is a biennial plant that grows up to six feet tall. It requires full sun exposure and well-draining soil with a neutral or slightly acidic pH level. The plant prefers cool temperatures and thrives in USDA zones 3-9. It is usually propagated from seeds and can also be propagated through stem cuttings, although the latter method is not typical.
Watering needs
Greater Burdock has moderate watering requirements. The plant should be watered deeply once a week, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During the plant's growth phase, it may require more frequent watering, especially during hot and dry periods. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's important to ensure that the soil has adequate drainage.
Fertilization
Lappa major Gaertner does not require heavy fertilization. It is a relatively low-maintenance plant that can grow well with organic compost or a balanced fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season. Excessive fertilizer use can lead to large foliage and sparse root development, reducing the quality and quantity of its root, which is its primary useful part.
Pruning
Greater Burdock does not require regular pruning, but deadheading the plant's flowers can improve its overall appearance. Deadheading also helps the plant to conserve its energy for root growth. Additionally, pruning the plant's central stem can encourage lower leaves' growth, which can lead to a healthier and more robust root system. However, you should be careful when pruning and avoid damaging the plant's stems and roots.
Propagation of Lappa major Gaertner
Generally, there are two methods for propagating Lappa major Gaertner or burdock plants. These are through seeds or root division.Propagation through seeds
Seeds from matured burdock plants can be collected for propagation. It is important to note that the seeds have high dormancy, so it is necessary to scarify them mechanically or soak them in warm water for 24 hours before planting in a well-drained seedbed. The seeds can be planted directly into the soil, covered with a thin layer of soil, and kept moist until germination. It is best to sow the seeds in mid-spring, as germination may take up to three weeks to occur.Propagation through root division
Burdock plants have a deep taproot that can be divided for propagation. This method is most suitable in the early spring when the plant is emerging from dormancy. The root should be dug up carefully, and the crown should be split horizontally. Each divided section should have healthy buds and a section of the root attached. The divided root can be planted immediately in the desired location, ensuring that it is planted at the same depth as before. In conclusion, propagating Lappa major Gaertner or burdock plants can be done through seeds or root division. Both methods are effective, but seed propagation requires scarification or soaking to reduce dormancy. Root division, on the other hand, should be done early in the spring before the plant enters the active growing phase.Disease and Pest Management of Lappa major Gaertner
Lappa major Gaertner, commonly known as burdock, is a biennial plant that is native to Europe and Asia and has naturalized in North America. The plant has numerous uses in traditional medicine and is also grown for its edible roots. However, like all plants, burdock is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can harm its growth and damage its roots. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and some suggested ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
1. Rust Disease: Burdock is prone to rust diseases caused by the fungus Puccinia arctii. Rust appears as rusty-brown spots on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant, leading to premature leaf drop, stunted growth, and reduced yield. To manage rust disease, you can use fungicides such as azoxystrobin, chlorothalonil, or copper-based fungicides. Also, dispose of infected plant debris to prevent the spread of rust spores.
2. Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease caused by Alternaria spp. that infects the leaves and stems of burdock. The disease appears as small, sunken, and dark brown or black spots on the leaves, which can merge and form large patches. To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy infected plant debris, water the plant in the morning, and avoid watering the foliage. You can also use fungicides like copper or chlorothalonil to prevent the spread of infection.
Common Pests
1. Japanese Beetle: Japanese beetle is a common insect pest that feeds on the leaves, flowers, and fruits of burdock. The insect causes skeletonization of the leaves, wilting, and reduced yield. To manage Japanese beetle, you can handpick the insects from the plant or use insecticides such as neem oil, pyrethroids, or carbaryl. Applying insecticidal soap or a sticky trap can also help to control the pest.
2. Wireworm: Wireworm is the larva of click beetles that can cause serious damage to the roots of burdock by tunneling into them. The pest can cause wilting, stunted growth, and yellowing of the plant. To manage wireworm, you can use beneficial nematodes or insecticides such as chlorpyrifos, carbaryl, or imidacloprid. Crop rotation and deep tilling can also help to prevent wireworm infestation.
Overall, burdock is a hardy plant that can withstand various diseases and pests if managed properly. The key to preventing and managing pests and diseases is to maintain good plant hygiene, identify the symptoms early, and take appropriate action to prevent the spread of infection.
