Origin
Medicago polymorpha L. var. ciliaris (Ser.) Shinners, commonly known as California burclover or bur medick, is a species of flowering plant in the legume family. It is native to the Mediterranean region, but has become naturalized in many parts of the world, including the United States.
Common Names
California burclover is known by various common names, including bur medick, toothed bur clover, and hedgehog medick. These names are derived from the plant's appearance and the spiny burs that cover its seed pods.
Uses
California burclover is primarily used as a forage crop for livestock, as it is high in protein and easily digestible. It can also be used as a cover crop to improve soil fertility and prevent erosion. In addition, some Native American tribes used the plant for medicinal purposes, such as treating skin irritations and sore throats.
General Appearance
California burclover is an annual plant that typically grows to a height of 12-18 inches (30-45 cm). It has a prostrate growth habit and forms small, compact mats. The leaves are trifoliate, with each leaflet being toothed and hairy. The plant produces small, yellow flowers in late winter or early spring, which are followed by spiny burs containing the seeds.
Light conditions
Medicago polymorpha L. var. ciliaris (Ser.) Shinners grows best in full sun or partial shade. It requires at least six hours of sunlight to establish itself and grow optimally. In shady conditions, the plant may grow slower and produce fewer leaves or flowers.
Temperature requirements
The plant is drought-tolerant and grows best in hot and dry conditions. It can withstand temperatures as high as 35°C. However, it also tolerates mild frost and can survive temperatures as low as -5°C.
Soil requirements
The ideal soil for Medicago polymorpha L. var. ciliaris (Ser.) Shinners is well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0. It can tolerate slightly acidic soils but does not grow well in heavy or compacted soils. The plant prefers soils with moderate fertility levels and can thrive in nutrient-poor soils.
Cultivation Methods
Medicago polymorpha L. var. ciliaris (Ser.) Shinners, also known as medick, is a hardy annual legume that is easy to grow and cultivate. It grows best in a warm and dry climate and prefers well-drained soils that are alkaline or neutral in pH. The plant can be propagated through seeds, which should be sown directly into the garden or in seed trays. Garden preparation should involve tilling the soil and removing weeds and debris. The seeds should be lightly covered with soil, and the soil should be kept moist until germination occurs, which usually takes between 7 and 14 days.
Watering Needs
Medick plants require moderate watering. Overwatering can cause root rot, while under-watering can lead to stunted growth. During the growing season, the plants should be watered at least once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch. A deep watering that soaks the soil to a depth of 6 inches is recommended. Once the plants have established root systems, they can tolerate drought conditions and can be watered every two to three weeks.
Fertilization
Medick plants do not require heavy fertilization, but applying a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (10-10-10) during the growing season can improve plant growth and health. The fertilizer should be applied sparingly, and the soil should be watered immediately after application to prevent fertilizer burn. Organic fertilizers such as compost or well-rotted manure can also be used to improve soil fertility.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for medick plants unless they become too leggy or bushy. In such cases, pruning can help to promote bushier growth and improve airflow around the plants. The pruning should be done in early spring or after flowering. The plant should be cut back by approximately one-third of its height. The pruning should be done using sharp and clean pruning shears to prevent damaging the plant. After pruning, the plant should be watered thoroughly to promote new growth.
Propagation methods of Medicago polymorpha L. var. ciliaris (Ser.) Shinners
Medicago polymorpha L. var. ciliaris (Ser.) Shinners, commonly known as hairy medic, can be propagated through various methods.
Seed propagation
The easiest and most common method of propagation is through seed. The seeds can be directly sown into the garden bed once the soil temperature has reached a minimum of 12°C. The seed should be covered with a layer of soil no thicker than the seed's diameter. Seedlings should emerge within 10-14 days.
Cutting propagation
Cutting propagation can be utilized to propagate the plant, but it is not commonly practiced in this variety. Cuttings are taken from the stem of the plant and then rooted in a suitable medium in a greenhouse or nursery. The rooted cuttings can then be transplanted once the roots have formed.
Division propagation
Division propagation is also possible but not recommended as it can be detrimental to the overall growth of the plant. The plant can be divided in the spring or fall when the plant is dormant. The roots should be gently untangled, and the plant divided into multiple sections. Each section should contain a portion of the root system and some foliage.
Disease and Pest Management for Medicago polymorpha L. var. ciliaris (Ser.) Shinners
Medicago polymorpha L. var. ciliaris (Ser.) Shinners, commonly known as bur clover, is a hardy plant that is relatively resistant to diseases and pests. However, like any other plant, it is not completely immune and can be affected by certain pathogens and pests that can damage its growth and yield. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that may affect bur clover and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Fungal Diseases:
Bur clover can be affected by several fungal diseases, including powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot. Powdery mildew is characterized by a white, powdery coating on the leaves, while leaf spot appears as circular or irregular brownish spots on the leaves. Root rot, on the other hand, affects the roots and causes them to turn brown and mushy.
Management:
The best way to manage fungal diseases is through prevention. Avoid excessive watering and ensure proper drainage. Remove infected plant debris and treat with a fungicide if necessary. Using resistant varieties of bur clover may also help prevent fungal diseases.
Bacterial Diseases:
One of the most common bacterial diseases that affect bur clover is Crown gall, which is characterized by large, rough, and lumpy growths on the stems and roots of the plants.
Management:
As with fungal diseases, the best way to manage bacterial diseases is through prevention. Use disease-free seeds and avoid wounding the plants. Remove infected plant debris and treat with a bacterial control agent if necessary.
Pests
Aphids:
Aphids are small insects that suck sap from the leaves and stems of bur clover, causing stunted growth and yellowing of the plants.
Management:
Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage aphids. Natural predators such as ladybugs can also help control aphids.
Caterpillars:
Caterpillars are the larvae of butterflies and moths that can eat the leaves and stems of bur clover, causing defoliation and reduced growth.
Management:
Pick off and destroy the caterpillars by hand. Applying Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) or spinosad insecticide can also help control caterpillars.
Grasshoppers:
Grasshoppers are known to feed on the leaves and stems of bur clover, causing defoliation and reduced growth.
Management:
Apply a residual insecticide to the plants to manage grasshoppers. Providing a barrier around the plants using row covers can also help prevent grasshopper infestations.
In conclusion, bur clover is a hardy plant that is relatively resistant to diseases and pests. However, when infected by pathogens or pests, it is important to take appropriate measures to prevent further damage to its growth and yield. A combination of prevention and control measures can be used to manage diseases and pests that may affect bur clover.
