Overview
Medicago orbicularis (L.) Bartal. is a plant belonging to the family Fabaceae. It is a perennial herb that is native to the Mediterranean region, but it can also be found in North Africa and the Middle East. The plant is commonly known as "little barrel medick" due to its small barrel-shaped fruits and "round-fruited medick" due to its orbicular, or circular, fruits.
Appearance
Medicago orbicularis grows up to 40 centimeters tall. Its leaves are composed of three leaflets, and they are covered with hairs. The plant's flowers are small and yellow, and they bloom from May to September. The fruits of the plant are small, round, and covered with stiff hairs.
Uses
Medicago orbicularis is mainly used as a forage crop for livestock. It is known for its high protein content, and it is often used in grazing systems. Additionally, the plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as digestive problems, respiratory issues, and skin conditions.
Medicago orbicularis is also grown as an ornamental plant in gardens due to its attractive foliage and yellow flowers. The plant can be propagated by seed, and it prefers well-drained soil and full sun.
Light Requirements
Medicago orbicularis requires full sunlight to grow properly. It is not tolerant to shade and should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
Medicago orbicularis can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it prefers temperatures between 59-86°F (15-30°C). Frost can damage the plant's leaves and stems, and it may die in extremely cold temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Medicago orbicularis prefers well-draining, loose, and sandy soils. It can tolerate soils with a pH range from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline (pH 6-8). The plant is not tolerant to waterlogged or heavy clay soils, which can lead to root rot and other diseases. It also requires moderate levels of nutrients.
Cultivation methods
Medicago orbicularis, also known as Button Clover, is a relatively easy plant to cultivate. It prefers well-drained soil and grows best in full sun. The ideal pH for cultivation is between 6 and 7.5. Button Clover can be propagated through seeds or cuttings.
For seeding, it is recommended to sow the seeds at a depth of 1/4 to 1/2 inch in a well-prepared seedbed. The seedbed should be kept moist until the seeds germinate, which typically takes about seven to ten days. If grown in containers, they should have good drainage and be filled with a well-draining soil mixture.
Watering needs
Button Clover requires regular watering, especially during the germination phase. During hot summer months, it should be watered more frequently than during cooler months. However, it is essential to make sure not to overwater the plant, as it can lead to root rot.
As a general rule, the top 1-2 inches of soil should be kept moist but not saturated. When in doubt, it is always better to underwater than to overwater.
Fertilization
Button Clover does not require much fertilization and can grow well in soil with low nutrient levels. However, it can benefit from a light application of fertilizer during the growing season.
It is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10. Apply the fertilizer at half strength every two weeks during the growing season. Make sure not to apply too much fertilizer, as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduced seed production.
Pruning
Button Clover does not require much pruning. However, if you want to keep the plant looking tidy and promote bushier growth, you can pinch the tips of the plant when it reaches a height of 4-6 inches. This will encourage the plant to branch out and produce more leaves and flowers.
If the plant becomes overgrown or patchy, it can be cut back to about 2-3 inches above the soil line. This will help promote new growth and rejuvenate the plant.
Propagation Methods for Medicago Orbicularis (L.) Bartal.
Medicago orbicularis (L.) Bartal., commonly known as the button clover or bur clover, is a hardy and fast-growing plant that can easily be propagated through seeds. However, other methods such as cuttings or division of plant clumps can also be used.
Propagation through Seed
Propagation through seeds is the easiest and most common method of propagating Medicago orbicularis. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil in the early spring when the soil temperature is warm, or they can be started indoors several weeks before planting time. The seeds can be planted at a depth of 1/4 to 1/2 inch in well-drained soil. Once planted, the soil should be kept evenly moist until the seedlings emerge.
One important thing to note is that the seeds of Medicago orbicularis have a hard outer coat that needs to be scarified before planting. Scarification involves scratching or nicking the seed coat to allow moisture to penetrate and promote germination. This can be done by rubbing the seeds lightly with sandpaper or using a specialized seed scarifier.
Propagation through Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is another method that can be used to propagate Medicago orbicularis. Cuttings should be taken in the spring from healthy, disease-free plants. The cuttings should be approximately 4 to 6 inches long and should be taken from the previous year's growth. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in a pot with well-draining soil. The pot should be kept in a warm, sunny location and the soil kept moist until roots form.
Propagation through Division
Propagation through division involves dividing mature plant clumps into smaller sections to be replanted. This method can be used for Medicago orbicularis, but it should only be used on mature plants that have been established in the ground for several years. The plant should be dug up and divided into smaller sections, each containing several healthy shoots. The divisions should be replanted in well-draining soil and kept moist until they become established.
Overall, Medicago orbicularis is an easy plant to propagate and can be done through seeds, cuttings or division. Through careful attention and propagation methods, gardeners can grow this beautiful and interesting plant in their own gardens.
Overview of Medicago orbicularis (L.) Bartal.
Medicago orbicularis (L.) Bartal. is also known as the button clover or moon trefoil. It is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. This plant species is common in several regions and is used as a component in forage mixtures. It is a hardy species that is resistant to drought and can grow in poor soils.
Common Diseases in Medicago orbicularis (L.) Bartal.
Medicago orbicularis (L.) Bartal. can be affected by different diseases, such as root rot caused by Phytophthora parasitica and Rhizoctonia solani. The symptoms of root rot include yellowing of leaves, wilting, and stunted growth. Another common disease is the powdery mildew caused by Erysiphe trifolii. The symptoms of this disease include the formation of white or grayish powdery patches on the leaves, flowers, and stems.
Management of Medicago orbicularis (L.) Bartal. Diseases
The best management practices for Medicago orbicularis (L.) Bartal. diseases include using disease-resistant cultivars, practicing crop rotation, and applying fungicides. The use of fungicides is most effective in controlling the powdery mildew disease. To prevent root rot, farmers can plant Medicago orbicularis (L.) Bartal. in well-drained soils and avoid overwatering.
Common Pests in Medicago orbicularis (L.) Bartal.
Medicago orbicularis (L.) Bartal. can be affected by several pests, including aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. These pests are attracted to the plant's tender growth. Aphids can transmit plant viruses, while spider mites and whiteflies can cause damage to leaves and stunt growth.
Management of Medicago orbicularis (L.) Bartal. Pests
The best management practices to control pests in Medicago orbicularis (L.) Bartal. include using insecticides, introducing beneficial insects, and practicing physical control methods such as removing infected plants. It is also crucial to regularly monitor the plants for signs of infestation and address them early enough to prevent the spread of the pests.
