Origin and Common Names
Lasthenia minor (DC.) Ornduff ssp. maritima (Gray) Ornduff, also known as coastal goldfields, is a small flowering plant that belongs to the sunflower family, Asteraceae. It is native to the coastal areas of California, Oregon, and Washington in the United States. The plant is commonly known as seaside goldfields, beach gold, and common goldfields.
Appearance
The coastal goldfields is an annual herb that typically grows up to 20 inches in height. It has many branches and small yellow flowers that bloom from March to June. The leaves are narrow, lance-shaped, and are covered in small white hairs. The plant has a fibrous root system and can tolerate salt spray and dry conditions.
Uses
Coastal goldfields have been used for ecological restoration in coastal areas and dunes. It is also popular as an ornamental plant in gardens due to its attractive flowers and drought tolerance. Additionally, the indigenous people of California, such as the Pomo and Kashaya, reportedly used the plant for medicinal purposes, particularly as a treatment for strained or sprained joints and bones.
Light Requirements
Lasthenia minor (DC.) Ornduff ssp. maritima (Gray) Ornduff prefers to grow in full sunlight or partially shaded areas. The plant can tolerate some shade, but too much of it may prevent it from producing vibrant flowers. Therefore, it is recommended to plant the specimen in an area with plenty of sunlight exposure, but protected from the harshest rays during the hottest times of the day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers to grow in moderate temperatures ranging from 10°C to 23°C (50°F to 73°F). It is adapted to the Pacific coast area and can tolerate mildly frosty conditions. The plant can also withstand occasional droughts, but avoid exposing it to excessively hot or dry conditions which may cause the leaves to wilt or the plant to die off.
Soil Requirements
The Lasthenia minor (DC.) Ornduff ssp. maritima (Gray) Ornduff requires well-drained soil with moderate soil moisture. The plant can grow in sandy, loamy soils, or in soils with high clay content. An ideal soil pH range is between 6.0 and 7.5. To ensure a healthy plant, it is recommended to add organic matter to the soil to enhance the nutrient content and improve its water retention properties.
Cultivation
The Lasthenia minor (DC.) Ornduff ssp. maritima (Gray) Ornduff plant prefers sandy soil with good drainage. It can be grown in pots or containers, but it prefers open ground with access to sunlight and air circulation. The plant usually thrives in coastal areas and is tolerant of salty air and water. It prefers a climate where the temperature ranges from 65°F to 75°F. It can tolerate temperatures as high as 90°F and as low as 32°F.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of the Lasthenia minor (DC.) Ornduff ssp. maritima (Gray) Ornduff are moderate. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top 1 inch of soil is dry. It is essential to avoid over-watering, as this can lead to root rot. Water the plant early in the day to allow the leaves to dry before nightfall, which can help prevent fungal growth.
Fertilization
The Lasthenia minor (DC.) Ornduff ssp. maritima (Gray) Ornduff plant does not require frequent fertilization. However, using a slow-release fertilizer in the spring can promote healthy growth. Alternatively, you can feed the plant with a liquid fertilizer every three to four weeks during the growing season. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can promote foliage growth at the expense of the flowers.
Pruning
Pruning the Lasthenia minor (DC.) Ornduff ssp. maritima (Gray) Ornduff is not necessary, but removing spent flowers can promote continuous blooming. To encourage bushy growth, pinch back the tips of the stems when the plant is about 4 inches tall. This will encourage branching and a fuller plant. If the plant becomes straggly, cut it back to 1 inch above the soil line to promote new growth.
Propagation of Lasthenia minor (DC.) Ornduff ssp. maritima (Gray) Ornduff
Lasthenia minor (DC.) Ornduff ssp. maritima (Gray) Ornduff, commonly known as salt marsh goldfields, is a perennial plant species that is native to salt marshes and coastal dunes of California and northwestern Mexico. Propagation of Lasthenia minor can be achieved through various methods described below:
Seed Propagation
One of the easiest ways to propagate Lasthenia minor is through seed propagation. The best time to collect the seeds is when the plant's flowers have wilted, and the seed heads are dry. To increase the germination rate, stratify the seeds in a refrigerator for a week before planting. The optimal time to plant Lasthenia minor seeds is in late fall or early spring when the soil is moist. The seedlings can be grown in a greenhouse before transplanting them outdoors.
Division
Lasthenia minor can also be propagated through division. Divide the plant in the fall when it is dormant. Carefully dig up the plant's root mass, and separate it into several clumps with at least one shoot per clump. Replant each clump immediately in prepared soil. Ensure that the soil is moist and kept well-drained, and keep the newly divided plants moist, but not excessively watered.
Cuttings
Lasthenia minor can also be propagated through cuttings. Take stem cuttings of about 5-6 inches in length during the plant's active growth period in spring or early summer. Strip the leaves off the bottom of the stem and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Plant the stem cuttings in a pot with a well-drained soil mix, keeping it moist and in indirect sunlight. Cuttings usually root in about 4-6 weeks, after which they can be transplanted into their permanent outdoor location.
With proper care, propagation of Lasthenia minor is an easy and rewarding process. The plant is a beautiful addition to any coastal landscape or garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Lasthenia minor (DC.) Ornduff ssp. maritima (Gray) Ornduff
Lasthenia minor (DC.) Ornduff ssp. maritima (Gray) Ornduff, commonly known as coast goldenbush, is a native California plant that requires minimal maintenance. However, it is still vulnerable to several pests and diseases that can affect its growth and health. In this article, we will discuss some common diseases and pests that might affect coast goldenbush and suggest ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect coast goldenbush is powdery mildew, a fungal disease that can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to water the plant from below to keep the foliage dry, prune affected leaves and stems, and apply a fungicide. Another common disease that affects coast goldenbush is rust, a fungal disease that can cause yellow or brown spots on the leaves. To manage rust, it is important to prune affected leaves and stems, remove fallen leaves from the ground, and apply a fungicide.
Common Pests
Coast goldenbush is also vulnerable to several pests that can cause damage to the plant. One of the most common pests is aphids, small insects that feed on the sap of the plant and can cause curled leaves and stunted growth. To manage aphids, it is important to spray the plant with a strong stream of water, apply insecticidal soap or oil, and introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings. Another common pest that affects coast goldenbush is spider mites, tiny mites that can cause webbing on the leaves and yellow or brown spots. To manage spider mites, it is important to spray the plant with a strong stream of water, apply insecticidal soap or oil, and introduce natural predators such as predatory mites.
Prevention is the most effective way to manage diseases and pests in coast goldenbush. It is important to provide the plant with proper care, including regular watering and fertilization, and to monitor the plant for signs of diseases and pests. Implementing these strategies can help ensure that coast goldenbush remains a healthy and vibrant addition to your garden or landscape.
