Overview
Mollugo cerviana (L.) Ser. ex DC. var. walteri (Friedrich) Adamson, also known as Walter’s carpetweed, is a plant in the family Molluginaceae. It is a perennial herb native to the southeastern United States, including Florida, Georgia, and Alabama.Common Names
Aside from Walter's carpetweed, this plant has several other common names, such as green carpetweed, carpetweed, and moleskin.General Appearance
The Walter’s carpetweed has a mat-like appearance, with stems that can grow up to 20-30 cm long. Its leaves are small, ovate, and can range from light green to yellow-green. The flowers of the plant have 5-8 white petals, and bloom from June to August. The fruits are small and round, with a diameter of about 1.5 mm.Uses
Though not commonly used, Walter's carpetweed has been used in traditional medicine by Native Americans to treat various ailments, such as headaches, fever, and stomach problems. The plant also has potential uses in agriculture, such as in improving soil function and preventing soil erosion. In some places, Walter’s carpetweed is considered an invasive species and removing it from gardens and other areas can be challenging.Growth Conditions for Mollugo cerviana (L.) Ser. ex DC. var. walteri (Friedrich) Adamson
Light: Mollugo cerviana (L.) Ser. ex DC. var. walteri (Friedrich) Adamson requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. It cannot tolerate shade or even partial shade, so it is recommended to grow it in a location where it can receive direct sunlight for at least six hours a day.
Temperature: This plant variety prefers warm temperatures and cannot tolerate frost or cold weather. The ideal temperature range for Mollugo cerviana (L.) Ser. ex DC. var. walteri (Friedrich) Adamson is between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). However, it can still survive in temperatures as low as 15°C (59°F).
Soil: Mollugo cerviana (L.) Ser. ex DC. var. walteri (Friedrich) Adamson grows well in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The ideal pH range for this plant species is between 6.0 to 8.0. It can tolerate a certain degree of salinity and can grow in sandy or loamy soils. However, it is not suitable for heavy clay soils.
Cultivation Methods
Mollugo cerviana (L.) Ser. ex DC. var. walteri (Friedrich) Adamson is a hardy plant that thrives in full sun or light shade. The plant favors well-draining soil with a neutral pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. It can be propagated from seeds or cuttings, and the best time to plant or transplant the Mollugo cerviana plant is during the spring or early summer.
Watering Needs
The Mollugo cerviana plant requires a moderate amount of water to grow well. Ensure the soil is moist by watering the plant regularly, especially during dry months. However, overwatering may lead to root rot, so you should regulate the water supply to avoid waterlogging.
Fertilization
You can apply a balanced compound fertilizer to the Mollugo cerviana plant once or twice a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering. Be cautious to avoid overapplication of fertilizer.
Pruning
Mollugo cerviana (L.) Ser. ex DC. var. walteri (Friedrich) Adamson usually grows to about 12-18 inches in height. The plant rarely requires pruning but if needed, you can trim or pinch the tips to encourage branching and bushier growth. Deadheading (removing spent flowers) can also prolong the flowering period.
Propagation of Mollugo cerviana (L.) Ser. ex DC. var. walteri (Friedrich) Adamson
Mollugo cerviana (L.) Ser. ex DC. var. walteri (Friedrich) Adamson can be propagated by various methods including seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of Mollugo cerviana (L.) Ser. ex DC. var. walteri (Friedrich) Adamson can be sown directly in the soil during spring or fall. The soil should be well-drained and slightly moist. The seeds should be lightly covered with soil and kept moist until germination.
Germination can take anywhere from 1-2 weeks, depending on the temperature and moisture levels. Once the seedlings have grown 2-3 inches tall, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Propagation by Cuttings
Mollugo cerviana (L.) Ser. ex DC. var. walteri (Friedrich) Adamson can also be propagated by stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken during the spring or summer from new growth. The cuttings should be 3-4 inches long and should be taken from the tip of the stem.
Remove the leaves from the lower two-thirds of the cutting and dip the cut end into rooting hormone. The cutting should then be planted in a well-draining soil mixture. Place the pot in a sunny location and keep the soil moist. The cutting should root in 2-3 weeks.
Propagation by Division
Mollugo cerviana (L.) Ser. ex DC. var. walteri (Friedrich) Adamson can also be propagated by division. The best time to divide the plant is during the spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing.
Dig up the plant and gently separate the roots into sections, making sure each section has both roots and shoots. Replant each section in a well-draining soil mixture and water well. The new plants should establish quickly.
Disease and Pest Management for Mollugo cerviana (L.) Ser. ex DC. var. walteri (Friedrich) Adamson
Mollugo cerviana (L.) Ser. ex DC. var. walteri (Friedrich) Adamson is a succulent plant from the family Molluginaceae that can be affected by various diseases and pests. Here are some common ones and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Leaf Spot - Leaf spot typically manifests as brown or black spots on the leaves. It is primarily caused by excess moisture on foliage and poor air circulation. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and avoid getting water on the foliage when irrigating.
Powdery Mildew - Powdery mildew presents itself as a white or grayish powdery substance on leaves, flowers, and fruit. It is caused by high humidity, poor air circulation, and overcrowding of plants. To manage powdery mildew, apply a fungicide as soon as symptoms are noticed and increase air circulation by spacing plants apart.
Anthracnose - Anthracnose causes dark streaks and spots on leaves and stems. It can be caused by various fungi, and it is spread by cool, wet conditions. To manage anthracnose, remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering.
Pests
Aphids - Aphids are tiny insects that cluster on growing tips and undersides of leaves. They cause leaves to wilt and yellow. To manage aphids, remove affected leaves and use insecticidal soap spray or neem oil.
Spider Mites - Spider mites are difficult to see, but they cause yellowish spots on leaves and webbing on the undersides of leaves. They thrive in hot, dry conditions. To manage spider mites, increase air circulation and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Scale Insects - Scale insects are small, round, and brown insects that attach to stems and leaves. They often secrete a sticky, clear substance. To manage scale insects, remove affected leaves, branches or stems, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
By following these tips and monitoring your Mollugo cerviana (L.) Ser. ex DC. var. walteri (Friedrich) Adamson, you can keep it healthy and disease and pest-free.
