Description:
Medicago polymorpha L. var. orbicularis L. is a small, annual plant in the legume family. It is commonly known as burclover, California burclover, or button clover. This plant is a non-native species that originated in the Mediterranean region and has been introduced to many other parts of the world.
Appearance:
The plant has trifoliate leaves that are green and hairy. It bears small, yellow flowers in clusters of four to six on long, thin stems. The flowers are followed by spiny seed pods that contain small, round seeds. The burclover plant grows up to 1.5 feet (0.5 meters) tall and has a spreading, prostrate growth habit.
Uses:
Burclover is sometimes used as a cover crop to improve soil quality, prevent erosion, and provide nitrogen fixation. It is also eaten by livestock and some wildlife species. Medicinally, the plant has been studied for its potential use in treating diabetes and as an antioxidant.
However, burclover can also be considered a weed, as it can invade and dominate natural areas and reduce biodiversity. It can be difficult to control due to its prolific seed production and ability to adapt to various soil types and climates.
Growth Conditions for Medicago polymorpha L. var. orbicularis L.
Medicago polymorpha L. var. orbicularis L. commonly known as 'Round-fruited Medic' is an annual herbaceous plant that typically grows in semi-arid and Mediterranean climates. It requires specific growth conditions to ensure optimal growth and development.
Light Requirements
The plant requires full sun to partial shade to grow. It can tolerate direct sunlight, but extreme heat can cause the plant to wilt and die. Inadequate sunlight can result in poor growth and low yield. Therefore, it is ideal to grow them in areas where they receive at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Soil Requirements
The plant can grow in different soil types, but it prefers well-drained soils. The ideal pH range for its growth is between 6.0 and 7.5. The plant can tolerate sandy, loamy, or clay soils. However, poorly drained soils, saline soils, and soil with high levels of aluminum can impede its growth and development.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, it requires warm temperatures to grow optimally. The ideal temperature range for its growth is between 20°C and 25°C. Temperatures above 30°C can cause the plant to wilt, while temperatures below 10°C can damage its leaves and affect its growth.
Water Requirements
Medicago polymorpha L. var. orbicularis L. requires adequate soil moisture to grow. The plant can tolerate drought, but it grows best in soils that are consistently moist. Overwatering can cause root rot and impede its growth. It is ideal to water the plant when the top inch of the soil is dry to the touch.
Fertilizer Requirements
The plant does not require high levels of fertilizer to grow. However, it responds well to soil amendments such as manure or compost. It is ideal to fertilize the soil with a balanced fertilizer before planting and to add a side-dressing of fertilizer during its growth stage.
In conclusion, understanding the growth conditions of Medicago polymorpha L. var. orbicularis L. is crucial for a successful harvest. By providing the appropriate temperature, light, soil moisture, and nutrients, growers can ensure optimal growth and high yield.
Cultivation methods
Medicago polymorpha L. var. orbicularis L. is a type of plant that grows best in well-drained soils, with a pH range between 6.0 and 7.5. It prefers full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade. The plant can be propagated through seed, which should be planted at a depth of 1-2 centimeters.
Watering needs
Medicago polymorpha L. var. orbicularis L. requires regular watering during the growing season, especially during dry periods. The plant prefers moderate moisture levels, so avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. A good rule of thumb is to water the plant deeply once a week, rather than frequent, shallow watering.
Fertilization
This plant has low to moderate fertilization needs. Fertilize the plant during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Be sure to follow the package instructions for the recommended amount and frequency of application.
Pruning
Medicago polymorpha L. var. orbicularis L. does not require much pruning, aside from removing any dead or damaged leaves or stems. You can also deadhead the plant after flowering to encourage more blooms. In general, it is best to allow the plant to grow naturally, and simply remove any unwanted growth as needed.
Propagation of Medicago polymorpha L. var. orbicularis L.
Medicago polymorpha L. var. orbicularis L. is commonly known as Burr medic or Button clover. It is a leguminous plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. This plant is an annual or short-lived perennial and its seeds can be used for propagation.
Propagation by Seeds
The most common method for propagating Medicago polymorpha L. var. orbicularis L. is by using its seeds. The seeds should be sown in a well-prepared seedbed, during the autumn season in regions with mild winters, or during the spring season in colder regions. The seeds should be scattered lightly on the soil surface, then lightly watered to set the soil and ensure the seeds are in contact with it. These seeds will germinate within a week or two depending on the environmental conditions, such as temperature and moisture.
Medicago polymorpha L. var. orbicularis L. is a self-pollinating plant, but cross-pollination may occur. Harvesting of the pods should be performed when they turn brown and dry, and after a week, the seeds can be shaken out to dry. The dried seeds can be stored for years and used in the next season’s propagation.
Propagation by Transplanting
Propagation of Medicago polymorpha L. var. orbicularis L. can also be achieved by transplanting rooted cuttings or seedlings. The plant can be propagated by using cuttings taken from young shoots that have not yet become woody. These cuttings should be taken from the plant during the spring season, and they should be around 10 cm long. They should be rooted in a suitable soil mix that provides good drainage. After roots emerge, the plantlets can be transplanted into their growing location in the garden.
Propagation by seedlings is also possible, and this method is ideal for those who want to start their propagation process earlier. The seedlings should be grown indoors under controlled environmental conditions, such as under grow lights and with a constant temperature and moisture levels. Once the seedlings are established and have developed a strong root system, they can be transplanted outdoors into the garden.
Disease Management
Medicago polymorpha L. var. orbicularis L. is susceptible to some diseases that can cause significant losses in plant populations if not well managed. The following are some of the common plant diseases affecting Medicago polymorpha L. var. orbicularis L. and ways to manage them:
Anthracnose
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant. The symptoms of the disease include yellowing of the leaves, brown spots on the leaves, and wilting of the plant. To manage anthracnose, it is important to avoid overwatering and ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil. Fungicides such as copper-based fungicides can also be used to control anthracnose.
Bacterial Wilt
Bacterial wilt is a serious disease that affects Medicago polymorpha L. var. orbicularis L. The symptoms of the disease include wilting of the plant, yellowing of the leaves, and stunted growth. To manage this disease, remove infected plants and dispose of them properly. Avoiding overwatering, providing good drainage, and maintaining good soil health can also help in controlling bacterial wilt.
Root Rot
Root rot is fungal disease that affects the roots of Medicago polymorpha L. var. orbicularis L. The symptoms of the disease include stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and wilting of the plant. To manage root rot, ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering. Use of fungicides can also control root rot.
Yellow Rust
Yellow rust is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant. The symptoms of the disease include small yellowish spots on leaves, which later turn into bigger reddish brown pustules. To manage yellow rust, practice crop rotation, avoid overcrowding and ensure good ventilation. Use of fungicides is also recommended.
Pest Management
Medicago polymorpha L. var. orbicularis L. is also prone to attack by some pests that can cause significant damage to the plant. The following are some common pests that affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids feed on the sap of the plant, slowing the growth and development. They can cause curling, stunted growth and yellowing leaves of the plant. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Plants can be sprayed with water to remove aphids.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause webbing on the plant, wilting, yellowing and rust spots. To manage spider mites, prune and remove badly damaged areas, increase humidity and use insecticidal soap, neem oil or horticultural oil.
Cutworms
Cutworms feed on the stems of the plant causing damage to young plants. To control cutworms, handpicking or use of Bacillus thuringiensis is recommended. Protect young plants using collars around the stem that are at least 2 inches deep into the soil, provide enough light as possible in the planting area, and rotate crops.
Wireworms
Wireworms bore into the stems of the plant. They are particularly harmful to young plants. To control wireworms, rotate crops, use yellow sticky traps, and plant deep enough to avoid exposure on the surface.
In conclusion, Medicago polymorpha L. var. orbicularis L. can be susceptible to a variety of diseases and pests. However, by following proper management practices, these can be kept at bay, and the plants can thrive well.
