Overview of Microcos cerasifera Chiov.
Microcos cerasifera Chiov., also known as the Cherry Plum or Prunus cerasifera, is a small deciduous tree or shrub that is native to western Asia and southeastern Europe. It belongs to the family Rosaceae and is closely related to the apricot and peach.
General Appearance
The Cherry Plum typically grows up to 6-8 meters in height and spreads out to around 4 meters. Its bark peels off in thin, oblong flakes, and the trunk is gnarled and twisted. The leaves are oval-shaped and a glossy green color, with finely serrated edges. In early spring, the tree produces an abundance of beautiful pink or white flowers that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
The fruit of the Cherry Plum is a small, round, or oval-shaped drupe that is yellow to reddish-purple in color and has a sweet, juicy flesh. The fruit is edible and is often used in making jams, jellies, and fruit preserves. It is also used to make fruit wines and liqueurs.
Common names
The Cherry Plum is commonly known by many names, including the Myrobalan Plum, Cherry Apricot, and Mirabelle Plum. In some regions, it is also called the Chinese Plum or Japanese Plum.
Uses
The Cherry Plum is a versatile plant that has many uses. The fruit is edible and has a sweet, tart taste. It is often used in cooking and is used to make jams, jellies, and fruit preserves. The wood of the Cherry Plum is hard and dense and is often used in making furniture, musical instruments like guitar backs, and other products that require a strong and durable wood. In traditional medicine, the bark, leaves, and fruit of Cherry Plum are used to treat a variety of ailments like coughs, fever, diarrhea, and intestinal worms.
The tree is also used as a decorative plant in gardens and parks due to its attractive flowers and vibrant foliage. It is easy to cultivate and grows well in a wide range of soil types and climates.
Light Requirements
The Microcos cerasifera Chiov. typically thrives in full sun to partial shade. It requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, it prefers temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C. The plant can survive in harsher conditions, including temperatures as low as -4°C and as high as 40°C.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil for Microcos cerasifera Chiov. is well-drained, moderately fertile soil. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil textures, including clay, sand, or loam. However, the soil should be slightly acidic with a pH ranging from 5.0 to 6.5 for optimal growth. The plant does not tolerate waterlogging and needs good drainage to prevent root rot. Organic matter-rich soils that are well-drained are ideal for the plant.
How to Cultivate Microcos Cerasifera Chiov.
Microcos cerasifera Chiov. can be grown easily in a home garden or in a pot. The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It requires full sun exposure for better growth and blooming.
Watering Needs
Microcos cerasifera Chiov. should be watered deeply once a week during summers and once in ten days in winters to keep the soil moist. Overwatering can cause root rot, and under-watering can lead to wilting and leaf drop. Watering should be done early in the morning or in the evening to avoid evaporation due to high temperatures.
Fertilization
To promote growth and flowering, fertilize Microcos cerasifera Chiov. with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season, i.e., from spring to fall. During winters, fertilization can be reduced to once a month. Avoid overfertilizing, as it can cause leaf burn.
Pruning
Microcos cerasifera Chiov. requires pruning once a year after the blooming season. Remove the dead and diseased branches and cut back the unwanted or overgrown shoots to maintain the shape and size of the plant. Prune the plant in a way that the sun can reach the center of the plant for better growth.
Propagation of Microcos cerasifera Chiov.
Microcos cerasifera Chiov. can be propagated through various methods including seed propagation, stem cuttings, air layering, and division.
Seed Propagation
Seeds are a cost-effective way to propagate Microcos cerasifera Chiov. Collect the seeds when fruit turns yellow and the skin easily peels away. Allow seeds to air-dry at room temperature for at least three days before planting. Plant the seeds in trays or pots filled with a well-draining soil mix. Water to moisten the soil and keep the soil moist until germination. The seeds will begin to sprout after 10-20 days. Seed-propagated plants can take three or more years to reach maturity.
Stem Cuttings Propagation
Stem cuttings of 6-8 inches long can be taken from the plant during the growing season. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormones. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and water frequently. The rooting process takes 4-5 weeks, and plants will be ready for transplant in a year.
Air Layering Method
Air layering involves creating an exposed section on a stem while it's still attached to the mother plant, encouraging its branch to form roots. Take a stem from Microcos cerasifera Chiov. at the height of 12-18 inches on the mother plant and make a small cut on its bark about a quarter-inch deep. Dust the cut with rooting hormones and wrap it with a moist moss or sterile potting soil. Wrap all of this in a plastic bag and seal it with a twist tie. Roots will appear in about three to six weeks, and the plant can be cut from the mother plant.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is when a mature plant is split into two or more sections for transplant. This method is mainly used when the plant has become overgrown. Carefully dig up the plant and gently separate the root mass into small sections using a sharp knife. Ensure each new section has enough roots and foliage, then plant each section in a well-draining soil mix in a new pot. Young plants will be ready for transplant in a year.
Disease and Pest Management for Microcos cerasifera Chiov.
Microcos cerasifera Chiov., commonly known as the purple leaf sand cherry, is an ornamental plant that is primarily grown for its foliage and pink flowers. While this plant is generally considered low-maintenance, it is still susceptible to certain diseases and pests. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that might affect Microcos cerasifera Chiov., as well as tips for managing them.
Common Diseases
1. Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant, causing a white, powdery coating. To manage this disease, remove and dispose of any infected plant parts, and avoid overhead watering. If necessary, apply a fungicide labeled for powdery mildew.
2. Leaf spot: Leaf spot is caused by a fungus that creates brown spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, remove and dispose of any infected plant parts, and avoid overhead watering. If necessary, apply a fungicide labeled for leaf spot.
Common Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing distorted growth and yellowing leaves. To manage aphids, prune any heavily infested plant parts and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
2. Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the juices from the leaves, causing a stippled or mottled appearance. To manage spider mites, increase the humidity around the plant by misting it regularly, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
By implementing the proper disease and pest management practices, you can keep your Microcos cerasifera Chiov. healthy and thriving.
