Introduction
Lathyrus tracyi Bradshaw is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. The plant is known for its beautiful flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies.Origin and Distribution
Lathyrus tracyi Bradshaw is endemic to the Southwestern United States, particularly in Arizona and New Mexico. The plant prefers growing on rocky slopes, canyons, and mesas at elevations of 3,500 to 6,500 feet.Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Tracy's sweet pea, named after Robert Tracy, who discovered the plant species in 1978. Other common names include Tracy’s lathyrus and Tracy’s pea.General Appearance
Lathyrus tracyi Bradshaw has thin stems that grow up to 2 feet long, climbing with tendrils or sprawling along the ground. The leaves are pinnately compound, with 4-6 oval leaflets. The flowers are bright pink or magenta, and range from 2.5 to 3.5 cm long. They bloom in late spring to early summer, usually from May to June.Uses
Lathyrus tracyi Bradshaw is mainly used for ornamental purposes in gardens and landscapes. It is a great addition to pollinator gardens, as it attracts hummingbirds and butterflies. The plant is also used in habitat restoration projects and erosion control. However, it is important to note that the plant is toxic if ingested in large amounts, and should not be consumed.Light Requirements
Lathyrus tracyi Bradshaw, commonly known as Tracy’s sweet pea, requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It grows well in areas with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to the temperate regions of North America and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, it grows best in temperatures between 15 and 24 degrees Celsius. Temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius can cause the plant to wilt, and frost is generally not tolerated well.
Soil Requirements
Lathyrus tracyi Bradshaw grows well in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It thrives in slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. The plant can tolerate some drought conditions but grows best when the soil is kept consistently moist.
Cultivation Methods for Lathyrus tracyi Bradshaw
Lathyrus tracyi Bradshaw, commonly known as Tracy's pea or Tracy's sweet pea, is a wildflower that thrives in warm, dry climates. It is best grown in well-draining, sandy soil and in full sunlight. The ideal time for planting Tracy's sweet pea is in the fall or early spring.
Plant seeds about an inch deep and six inches apart, and water thoroughly. Cover with a layer of mulch to retain moisture. Germination typically occurs within two weeks, and the plant will start to flower four to six weeks later.
Watering Needs for Lathyrus tracyi Bradshaw
Lathyrus tracyi Bradshaw is an extremely drought-tolerant plant, making it ideal for areas with little rainfall or limited irrigation. Water the plant deeply and infrequently, about once a week, when it is young. As it matures, reduce the frequency of watering - only water when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, which can kill the plant.
Fertilization for Lathyrus tracyi Bradshaw
Lathyrus tracyi Bradshaw does not require much fertilization. In fact, applying too much fertilizer can encourage leaf growth instead of flower growth. However, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer once every growing season to encourage healthy growth. Be sure to follow the instructions on the package carefully to avoid over-fertilization.
Pruning for Lathyrus tracyi Bradshaw
Lathyrus tracyi Bradshaw typically does not require pruning, but trimming back leggy stems is allowed. Pruning, however, must be done in late fall or winter, after the plant finishes its flowering cycle. Trim back any dead or damaged stems, leaving only healthy foliage and stems. This ensures that the plant stays healthy and promotes good air circulation.
Propagation of Lathyrus tracyi Bradshaw
Lathyrus tracyi Bradshaw, commonly known as Tracy's sweet pea, can be propagated through several methods. Here are some of the most common methods:
Seed Propagation:
One of the easiest ways to propagate Lathyrus tracyi is through seed propagation. Collect the seeds from the plant during the autumn season when the seed pods have turned brown. Soak the seeds overnight in warm water, and then sow them in the soil, keeping them moist. Germination typically takes 1-3 weeks, and the seedlings should be kept in bright, indirect light until they are large enough to be transplanted.
Cuttings:
You can propagate Lathyrus tracyi by taking cuttings from the plant. Take cuttings in early spring, just as new growth is starting. Pick a young, healthy shoot and cut it from the parent plant, ensuring that the cutting has several leaves attached. Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone and plant it into a container of moistened potting mix. Keep the cutting in bright, indirect light and ensure that the soil is kept moist. The cutting should root in 2-3 weeks and can then be planted in its final location.
Division:
Lathyrus tracyi can also be propagated through division. This is the best method for mature plants that have grown to a larger size. Carefully dig up the plant and gently separate the root mass into several smaller sections, ensuring that each section has some roots and foliage. Plant the smaller sections in their final location and keep the soil moist until they are established.
Disease and Pest Management for Lathyrus tracyi Bradshaw
Lathyrus tracyi Bradshaw, commonly known as Tracy's pea, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is a hardy plant that is tolerant of dry conditions and poor soils. However, the plant can be affected by certain diseases and pests. In this section, we will discuss some common diseases and pests that can affect Lathyrus tracyi and suggest ways to manage them.
Common diseases that affect Lathyrus tracyi
1. Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that affects the foliage of the plant. It appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves, and it can cause them to turn yellow and drop prematurely. To manage powdery mildew, it is recommended to remove and destroy infected leaves and provide adequate air circulation around the plant.
2. Rust: Rust is another fungal disease that affects the plant. It appears as reddish-brown spots on the leaves, and it can cause them to drop prematurely. To manage rust, it is recommended to remove and destroy infected leaves and provide adequate air circulation around the plant.
3. Root rot: This is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant. It can cause the plant to wilt and die. To manage root rot, it is recommended to avoid overwatering the plant and to provide proper drainage around the root zone.
Common pests that affect Lathyrus tracyi
1. Aphids: Aphids are small insects that feed on the plant sap, causing the foliage to distort and yellow. To manage aphids, it is recommended to spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
2. Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the plant sap, causing the foliage to appear stippled and yellow. To manage spider mites, it is recommended to spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
3. Slugs: Slugs are mollusks that feed on the foliage of the plant. They can cause irregular holes in the leaves and skeletonize them. To manage slugs, it is recommended to handpick them from the plant or use slug bait.
By practicing good cultural practices such as providing adequate air circulation, watering, and fertilization, and by properly identifying and managing diseases and pests, you can keep your Lathyrus tracyi healthy and thriving.
