Overview - Linum Compactum A. Nels.
Linum compactum A. Nels., commonly known as compact flax or prairie flax, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to North America. This plant belongs to the family Linaceae and is found across the western regions of the continent, including Utah, Arizona, and Montana.
General Appearance
The growth of Linum compactum is relatively low, with a height of 10cm to 30cm. The plant contains numerous fine stems that grow from a woody base, creating a complex network of branches. The branches are hairy and initially grow upwards, but as they mature, they tend to sag towards the ground. The leaves of this plant have linear blades that are slim and short, about 1cm to 2cm in length.
Common Names
Linum compactum A. Nels. is commonly known by various names, including compact flax, prairie flax, barren-flax, and Wild blue flax. These names are attributed to the plant's nature of growth, habitat, and flower color.
Uses
There are various uses of Linum compactum, including medicinal and horticultural purposes. For centuries, indigenous people in North America have used this plant to treat ailments such as kidney problems and heart diseases. The plant's seeds are a source of oil that is edible and has a high concentration of linoleic acid, which has numerous health benefits. Horticulturists use Linum compactum in landscaping as ground cover or in rock gardens.
Light Requirements
Linum compactum A. Nels. is a plant species that thrives in full sunlight. It requires at least six hours of direct sunlight to grow and develop properly. Lack of enough light may lead to stunted growth and a weakened plant. Therefore, it is recommended to grow this species in a location that receives full sun exposure to promote healthy growth and development.
Temperature Requirements
Linum compactum A. Nels. is a cool-season crop that does well in moderate temperatures. The plant requires an average temperature range of 15-25°C (59-77°F) to grow. It can withstand light frost and freezing temperatures, making it suitable for growing in colder regions as well.
Soil Requirements
The plant species prefers well-drained, sandy, and loamy soils with a pH range of 6.0-8.5. The soil should be well-aerated and have good water-holding capacity. In addition, adding organic matter to the soil enhances soil fertility and improves water-holding capacity. It is important to note that the plant species cannot tolerate waterlogged soils as it could lead to root rot, which may negatively affect plant growth and development.
Cultivation Methods for Linum compactum A. Nels.
Linum compactum A. Nels. is fairly easy to cultivate and can grow in various soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clayey soils. The optimal temperature for growth is around 20-25°C, and it requires full sunlight to thrive. The plant can be propagated through seeds, and it is advisable to sow the seeds in early spring or fall months.
It is essential to ensure that the soil is well-draining and weed-free before planting the seeds. Cover the seeds lightly with soil, and water them regularly to keep the soil moist. Germination usually occurs within two to three weeks.
Watering Needs for Linum compactum A. Nels.
Regular watering is vital to ensure optimal growth of Linum compactum A. Nels. The plant requires moderate watering, and it is advisable to water it once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions. However, overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is essential to avoid excessive watering.
The best time to water the plant is early in the morning or late in the evening, when the sun is not too hot. This prevents the water from evaporating too quickly and ensures that the water reaches the plant's roots.
Fertilization for Linum compactum A. Nels.
Fertilization is not always necessary for Linum compactum A. Nels. The plant can grow well in nutrient-poor soils. However, if you wish to encourage optimal growth and blooming, you can apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer, during the early stages of growth.
It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions when applying fertilizer to avoid over-fertilization, which can harm the plant. Additionally, avoid applying fertilizer during particularly hot or dry weather conditions since it can stress the plant.
Pruning Linum compactum A. Nels.
Linum compactum A. Nels. is not a particularly demanding plant when it comes to pruning. If you want to encourage bushier growth, you can pinch back the tips of the branches early in the plant's life.
Additionally, pruning can help reduce the plant's overall size and prevent it from becoming too leggy or sprawling. You can prune the plant as needed throughout its growing season to shape it according to your preferences.
Propagation of Linum compactum A. Nels.
Linum compactum A. Nels., also known as Rocky Mountain flax, can be propagated by several methods:
Seed propagation
This plant can be grown from seeds that have been collected in late summer when the seed capsules have dried and turned brown. The seeds should be cleaned, dried, and stored in a cool, dry place until the following spring. In the spring, they can be sown directly into the ground or started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost.
Division
The root system of Linum compactum A. Nels. can be divided in the spring or fall to produce new plants. Carefully dig up the clump and separate it into smaller sections, each with its own roots and shoots. Replant each section immediately at the same depth as it was previously growing.
Cuttings
Linum compactum A. Nels. can also be propagated by taking cuttings from established plants. In late spring or early summer, take 4-6 inch stem cuttings from the tips of healthy, non-flowering shoots. Remove the lower leaves, dip the cut end into rooting hormone, and place in a pot containing a well-draining growing medium. Keep the cuttings moist and in a warm, bright location until they begin to develop roots. Once roots have formed, the cuttings can be transplanted into individual containers or directly into the ground.
Disease Management
Linum compactum A. Nels. is generally a healthy plant, but it can be affected by various diseases. The most common diseases that affect this plant include:
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by the fungus Phytophthora cinnamomi, which attacks the roots of the plant, leading to wilting and death. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering and ensure proper drainage of the soil. Also, avoid planting the plant in areas with poor soil drainage.
- Fusarium wilt: This disease is caused by the fungus Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lini, which blocks the vascular system of the plant, leading to wilting and yellowing of leaves. To manage Fusarium wilt, avoid planting the plant in areas with a history of the disease, and practice crop rotation.
- Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by the fungus Cercospora linicola, which causes small, circular, brown spots on leaves. To manage leaf spot, avoid overhead watering, keep the area around the plant clean, and remove infected leaves.
Pest Management
Linum compactum A. Nels. can also be attacked by various pests, including:
- Aphids: These small insects suck the sap out of the plant, leading to wilting and stunted growth. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, spray the plant thoroughly and regularly, and introduce natural predators like ladybugs.
- Spider mites: These tiny insects also suck the sap out of the plant, causing yellowing and dropping of leaves. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, spray the plant thoroughly and regularly, and avoid overhead watering.
- Cutworms: These larvae cut the stem of the plant at ground level, leading to wilting and death. To manage cutworms, use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) or spinosad, sprinkle it around the base of the plant, and apply it regularly.
