Origin of Medicago polymorpha L. subsp. brevispina (Benth.) Heyn
Medicago polymorpha L. subsp. brevispina (Benth.) Heyn, commonly referred to as short-spined medick, is a species of annual or biennial plant belonging to the family Fabaceae. It is native to the Mediterranean region and parts of Western Asia.
Common Names of Medicago polymorpha L. subsp. brevispina (Benth.) Heyn
Short-spined medick is the most common name for this plant, but it has many other names used in different places around the world. It is also known as burr medic, black medick, nonesuch, and little burclover.
Uses of Medicago polymorpha L. subsp. brevispina (Benth.) Heyn
Short-spined medick is often used as a forage crop for livestock, which can include sheep, cattle, and horses. It is highly nutritious and has a high protein content, making it a valuable feed source. The plant is also used for erosion control, as it forms a dense cover over the ground and has strong roots that help to stabilize soil.
General Appearance of Medicago polymorpha L. subsp. brevispina (Benth.) Heyn
The short-spined medick plant is an annual or biennial herb that can grow up to 60 cm tall. It has small, trifoliate leaves with a distinct "V" shape. The flowers are yellow and are produced in spikes. The fruits are small, curved, and have spines on them, which give this plant its common name. The roots of Medicago polymorpha L. subsp. brevispina (Benth.) Heyn are deep, allowing it to tolerate dry conditions better than other plant species.
Light Requirements
Medicago polymorpha L. subsp. brevispina requires full sun to grow effectively. The plant requires at least six to eight hours of sunlight per day. It is essential to provide adequate light for photosynthesis, which helps the plant create energy to grow and flourish.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species is tolerant to temperatures ranging from 0°C to 40°C. However, the optimum temperature range for growth is between 20°C to 30°C. Low temperatures may slow down the growth process, while high temperatures may cause the plant to wilt or dry up. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain the ideal temperature range for optimal growth.
Soil Requirements
Medicago polymorpha L. subsp. brevispina grows best in well-drained soils with a neutral pH range (6.0-7.5). The plant prefers sandy or loamy soils that are rich in organic matter. It can also grow in poor soils, but this may affect its growth rate and performance. Additionally, the plant thrives in soils with good drainage since excess water can cause root rot or fungal infections.
Cultivation Methods
Medicago polymorpha L. subsp. brevispina (Benth.) Heyn, commonly known as bur clover, is an annual legume that is native to the Mediterranean region. It is mainly grown as forage for livestock, but it can also be grown as an ornamental plant. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, including acidic, alkaline, and moderately salty soils.
The best time to plant bur clover is in the fall or early spring. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil at a depth of 1 to 2 inches and spaced about 8 inches apart. The seedlings will emerge within 7 to 10 days, and the plant will grow rapidly, producing a lush carpet of green foliage.
Watering Needs
Bur clover has moderate water requirements. The plant needs regular watering during the first few weeks after planting to establish a strong root system. Afterward, the plant will need watering only during prolonged dry spells. Overwatering can cause the plant to rot.
Fertilization
Bur clover is a nitrogen-fixing plant, meaning that it can convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that can be used by the plant. However, adding a small amount of nitrogen fertilizer can help the plant to grow faster and produce more foliage. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied once a month during the growing season.
Pruning
Bur clover is generally low-maintenance and does not require pruning. However, if the plant becomes too dense or starts to encroach on neighboring plants, it can be mowed or trimmed back to keep it under control. Pruning is best done after the plant has finished blooming and producing seeds.
Propagation methods for Medicago polymorpha L. subsp. brevispina (Benth.) Heyn.
Medicago polymorpha L. subsp. brevispina (Benth.) Heyn., commonly known as Burclover, is a plant species that belongs to the Fabaceae family. This legume plant is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa and is commonly grown as a forage crop in different parts of the world due to its high nutritive value. Propagation of Medicago polymorpha L. subsp. brevispina (Benth.) Heyn. can be achieved through different methods which include:
Seed Propagation:
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Medicago polymorpha L. subsp. brevispina (Benth.) Heyn. The seeds should be planted in a well-prepared seedbed that is free of weeds. The seedbed should be thoroughly watered before planting to ensure adequate soil moisture. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1 to 1.5 cm and spaced about 10 to 15 cm apart. Germination usually takes between 5 to 14 days. The seedlings can be transplanted to their permanent location when they reach a height of 8 to 10 cm.
Vegetative Propagation:
Vegetative propagation of Medicago polymorpha L. subsp. brevispina (Benth.) Heyn. can be achieved through stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants during the active growth phase. The cuttings should be about 7 to 10 cm long and should be taken from the current year's growth. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone before planting in a rooting medium. The rooting medium should be kept moist, and the cuttings should root within 3 to 4 weeks. The rooted cuttings can then be transplanted to their permanent location.
Division:
Medicago polymorpha L. subsp. brevispina (Benth.) Heyn. can also be propagated by division. This method involves dividing the parent plant into smaller sections, each with a portion of the roots. Care should be taken not to damage the roots during division. The divided plant should be planted in a well-prepared site that receives adequate moisture and sunlight.
Disease Management for Medicago polymorpha L. subsp. brevispina
Like any other plants, Medicago polymorpha L. subsp. brevispina can be affected by diseases. The common diseases that can affect this species include powdery mildew, anthracnose, and root rot.
Powdery Mildew. This disease is caused by fungi. It is characterized by the development of white or grey powdery patches on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, it is recommended that you spray the plant with sulfur-based fungicides. Also, ensure that the plant is well-ventilated, and avoid overcrowding.
Anthracnose. This is also a fungal disease that causes dark spots on the leaves and stem of the plant. It can be managed by pruning and burning the affected parts. Also, you can apply copper-based fungicides regularly until the disease disappears.
Root Rot. This disease is caused by fungi in the soil. It causes the plant to wilt and eventually die. To manage this disease, ensure that the plant is grown in well-drained soil. You can also apply fungicides containing chlorothalonil or copper oxychloride to the soil.
Pest Management for Medicago polymorpha L. subsp. brevispina
Medicago polymorpha L. subsp. brevispina can also be affected by pests. The common pests that can affect this species include aphids, cutworms, and spider mites.
Aphids. These are tiny insects that can be found on the leaves and stem of the plant. They feed on the sap of the plant, causing it to weaken and eventually die. To manage this pest, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also introduce natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings.
Cutworms. These are the larvae of a type of moth. They feed on the stems of the plant, causing it to wilt and die. To manage this pest, you can use collars around the stem of the plant or apply insecticides containing carbaryl or diazinon.
Spider Mites. These are tiny pests that can be found on the undersides of the leaves. They suck the sap of the plant, causing it to turn yellow and eventually die. To manage this pest, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also spray the plant with water to wash away the mites.
