Origin
Lesquerella alpina (Nutt.) S. Wats. var. alpina is a species of flowering plant in the family Brassicaceae. It is native to North America and is found in arctic and alpine regions of Alaska and Canada.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Alpine bladderpod due to the inflated shape of its fruits. It is also referred to as Alaskan seseli, or simply Lesquerella alpina.
Appearance
Lesquerella alpina (Nutt.) S. Wats. var. alpina is a small herbaceous plant that typically grows up to 10 cm tall. It has hairy, gray-green leaves that are deeply lobed with toothed margins. The inflorescence is a dense cluster of small yellow flowers that bloom in the summer. The fruit is a rounded capsule that resembles a bladder, which contains several smaller seeds.
Uses
Lesquerella alpina (Nutt.) S. Wats. var. alpina has potential as a source of oil for industrial uses due to the high oil content in its seeds. The oil produced from the seeds contains hydroxy fatty acids which have unique properties for use as a lubricant, and could replace synthetic lubricants. In addition, the plant has also been used in traditional medicine as a treatment for skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
Light Requirements
Lesquerella alpina (Nutt.) S. Wats. var. alpina typically thrives in full sun to partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to grow optimally. However, if the plant is grown in too much shade, then it may produce fewer flowers and seeds.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in arctic and alpine climates with average temperatures ranging from 8-15 degrees Celsius. During cooler temperatures, the plant tends to slow down its growth. On the other hand, during warmer temperatures, the plant grows more rapidly and produces more flowers and seedlings. It is important to note that the plant is well adapted to low temperatures and can tolerate frost quite well.
Soil Requirements
Lesquerella alpina (Nutt.) S. Wats. var. alpina grows best in well-draining soils with high organic matter content. The ideal soil pH ranges from 6.0 to 7.5. The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils. In general, the plant can grow in sandy, clay, or loamy soils. However, the soil needs to be well-drained, as the plant cannot tolerate waterlogging or flooded conditions. Additionally, the plant requires a regular supply of water to maintain healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods for Lesquerella alpina (Nutt.) S. Wats. var. alpina
Lesquerella alpina (Nutt.) S. Wats. var. alpina grows best under full sun exposure with well-draining soil. Before planting, the soil needs preparation by loosening it to remove any debris, rocks, and weeds. Once prepared, Lesquerella alpina (Nutt.) S. Wats. var. alpina seeds can be planted about 1/8 inch deep into the soil. The seeds should be spaced with a distance of 6-9 inches apart with rows about 12-18 inches apart. Water seeding immediately and continuously until it germinates.
Watering Needs for Lesquerella alpina (Nutt.) S. Wats. var. alpina
Lesquerella alpina (Nutt.) S. Wats. var. alpina requires a moderate to low amount of water. However, it is crucial to water the plant regularly during its initial growth stage to help establish strong roots. Watering should be done deeply, at least an inch per week, rather than giving a light sprinkling daily. During periods of drought, increase the frequency but decrease the amount of water. Ensure not to overwater as it leads to root rot.
Fertilization for Lesquerella alpina (Nutt.) S. Wats. var. alpina
Fertilization can help Lesquerella alpina (Nutt.) S. Wats. var. alpina grow better. Use a balanced fertilizer with a 10-10-10 composition in the spring, especially during the plant's blooming stage. Avoid over-fertilization as this can damage the plant.
Pruning for Lesquerella alpina (Nutt.) S. Wats. var. alpina
Pruning of Lesquerella alpina (Nutt.) S. Wats. var. alpina is unnecessary. However, if pruning is needed, it should only be limited to the removal of dead or damaged leaves and branches. Do not remove green and healthy parts of the plant as it can damage the plant's overall health.
Propagation of Lesquerella alpina var. alpina
Propagation of Lesquerella alpina var. alpina can be achieved through both sexual and asexual means.
Sexual Propagation
Seeds are the primary means of sexual propagation for Lesquerella alpina var. alpina. The plant produces small, pale yellow flowers that are self-fertile and produce small, oval-shaped seed pods.
Harvesting the seeds can be done by hand or through mechanical means. Once harvested, the seeds can be stored in a cool, dry place until planting. Planting can take place in the fall or early spring, and the seeds should be planted in a well-draining soil mix at a depth of 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch. Germination can occur in as little as 10 days, but it may take several weeks.
Asexual Propagation
Asexual propagation for Lesquerella alpina var. alpina can be achieved through stem cuttings.
Stem cuttings should be taken from the plant in the early summer and should consist of a 4-inch to 6-inch piece of stem with at least two sets of leaves. The cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist, but not saturated, and the cutting should be kept out of direct sunlight until roots develop. Once roots have developed, the cutting can be transplanted into a larger container or directly into the garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Lesquerella alpina (Nutt.) S. Wats. var. alpina
Lesquerella alpina (Nutt.) S. Wats. var. alpina, also known as Alpine bladderpod, is a herbaceous biennial or perennial plant that is commonly found in the western United States. The plant is known for its high content of oil, which is used for biofuel production and as a lubricant. However, like all plants, Lesquerella alpina is susceptible to diseases and pests that can negatively affect its growth and yield. Here are some common diseases and pests of Lesquerella alpina and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Blackleg
Blackleg is a fungal disease that affects Lesquerella alpina at any stage of growth. It causes stem rot, leaves to wilt, and can lead to the death of the plant. To manage this disease, it is essential to remove infected plants, leaves, and debris from the garden and dispose of them. Fungicides can also be used to treat the remaining plants.
Sclerotinia
Sclerotinia is a fungal disease that affects various parts of the plant and can lead to severe damage or death. The symptoms of this disease include water-soaked lesions, brown spots, and a white fungal growth. To manage Sclerotinia, it is essential to remove and destroy infected plants and debris. Fungicides can also be used to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pests
Aphids
Aphids are soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of Lesquerella alpina and other plants. They cause wilting, stunting, and yellowing of the leaves. To manage aphids, it is essential to remove them by hand or use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Encouraging natural predators like ladybugs can also help control aphids.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny, eight-legged pests that are difficult to see with the naked eye. They feed on the plant sap, causing discoloration, wilting, and leaves to drop. To manage spider mites, it is essential to remove or prune affected parts of the plant and use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to control the population.
In conclusion, Lesquerella alpina (Nutt.) S. Wats. var. alpina may be vulnerable to diseases and pests that can harm their growth and production. Early detection and prevention are key to managing diseases and pests in this plant. Gardeners must be vigilant and carefully monitor their garden for signs of diseases and pests. Ensuring good cultural practices, including appropriate irrigation and fertilization, can also help to keep Lesquerella alpina healthy and productive.
