Origin
Myriophyllum verticillatum L. var. intermedium W.D.J. Koch is a submerged aquatic plant that is native to North America, but it can also be found in parts of Europe and Asia. It can grow in a variety of aquatic environments such as lakes, ponds, and slow-moving streams.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Whorled Water Milfoil, which refers to its whorled leaves. It is also sometimes called Green Water Milfoil, in reference to its green color and its close resemblance to other aquatic milfoil species.
Uses
Myriophyllum verticillatum L. var. intermedium has several uses in the aquatic environment. It provides important habitat and food for many aquatic animals, including small fish and invertebrates. It can also serve as a natural water filter, helping to improve water quality by removing excess nutrients and pollutants from the water. Additionally, the plant is sometimes used in aquariums and water gardens, as it can help keep the water clean and oxygenated.
General Appearance
The Whorled Water Milfoil plant is a submerged aquatic plant with long, thin stems that can grow up to 10 feet in length. The stems are covered in whorls of feathery, green leaves that are arranged in groups of 4-6 around the stem. The leaves are finely divided and can be up to 2 inches long. The plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are less than 1/4 inch in diameter and are often hidden among the leaves. The plant's overall appearance is delicate and graceful, lending a natural beauty to aquatic environments.
Light requirements
Myriophyllum verticillatum L. var. intermedium W.D.J. Koch prefers full sunlight, but it can tolerate partial shade. To grow well, this plant requires at least 5 to 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. In low light conditions, the plant may have a slower growth rate or lose its reddish color.
Temperature requirements
The optimum temperature range for Myriophyllum verticillatum L. var. intermedium W.D.J. Koch is between 18°C to 27°C. The plant can withstand a minimum temperature of around 10°C. Temperatures above 30°C can have a negative impact on the growth rate of the plant.
Soil requirements
Myriophyllum verticillatum L. var. intermedium W.D.J. Koch prefers nutrient-rich, slightly acidic to neutral soils (pH 6.0-7.5). The plant can also flourish in clay or sandy soils, as long as there is enough organic matter to support its growth. Good drainage is essential to prevent waterlogging which can cause root rot or other fungal diseases.
Cultivation
Myriophyllum verticillatum L. var. intermedium W.D.J. Koch is a herbaceous, aquatic plant that thrives in shallow waters where it can receive a considerable amount of light. When cultivating this plant, it is essential to provide a suitable substrate for growth. A sandy or muddy substrate that is rich in organic matter is ideal for this plant.
You can grow this plant in both indoor and outdoor ponds, aquariums, or any other water body where the conditions are favorable.
Watering Needs
Since Myriophyllum verticillatum L. var. intermedium W.D.J. Koch is an aquatic plant, it requires a constant supply of water to survive. Ensure that the water level in the pond, aquarium, or water body where the plant is growing is always maintained so that the plants' roots remain submerged in water.
It is also essential to monitor water quality regularly to ensure that it is free from contaminants, and the pH level is within the plant's acceptable range.
Fertilization
Myriophyllum verticillatum L. var. intermedium W.D.J. Koch is a heavy feeder, and it requires a constant supply of nutrients to thrive. Regular fertilization is essential for optimum growth and development. A slow-release fertilizer pellet that is high in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium should be added to the pond or aquarium to provide the necessary nutrients.
It is essential to apply fertilizers according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer to avoid over-fertilizing, which could lead to algal bloom and water pollution.
Pruning
Regular pruning is essential to keep Myriophyllum verticillatum L. var. intermedium W.D.J. Koch in top shape. Prune the plant's stems to remove any decaying or yellowing leaves, making sure to cut at the base of each stem.
Overgrown plants should be pruned to manage their growth and ensure that they do not overcrowd the pond or aquarium.
Pruning should be done carefully to avoid damaging the plant, and any diseased or dead stems should be removed to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation Methods of Myriophyllum verticillatum L. var. intermedium W.D.J. Koch
Myriophyllum verticillatum L. var. intermedium W.D.J. Koch, commonly known as "whorled water milfoil," is a popular aquatic plant in the aquarium trade. These plants can be propagated through both vegetative and sexual methods, ensuring a healthy and vibrant growth of the plant in the aquarium.
Vegetative propagation
Vegetative propagation is the simplest and most widely used method for propagating Myriophyllum verticillatum. This propagation method involves cutting a stem from a mature plant and replanting it in the desired location. The stem should possess leaves, and it must be at least four inches long. The stem cuttings should be planted in a substrate, and after a week, new roots will emerge from the nodes, and the stem will anchor itself firmly.
Sexual propagation
Sexual propagation involves the use of seeds to propagate Myriophyllum verticillatum. In natural conditions, the plant produces flowers that develop into small fruits. These fruits are tiny capsules that contain multiple seeds. The seeds can be collected by placing a paper bag over the flowers and waiting for the seeds to mature and drop into the bag.
It is worth noting that sexual reproduction is rare in aquatic conditions. Plants are typically propagated through vegetative methods since sexual propagation requires controlled conditions, including light, nutrient, and temperature requirements.
In conclusion, the propagation of Myriophyllum verticillatum L. var. intermedium W.D.J. Koch is essential to ensuring the growth and survival of the plant. Vegetative propagation is the most straightforward and widely used method, but sexual propagation may be employed to secure genetic diversity.
Disease Management of Myriophyllum verticillatum L. var. intermedium W.D.J. Koch
Myriophyllum verticillatum L. var. intermedium W.D.J. Koch is a hardy aquatic plant that is resistant to many diseases. However, certain diseases can affect the plant causing wilted leaves, stunted growth, and decreased productivity. The following are some of the common diseases that can affect M. verticillatum, and ways to manage them:
Bacterial Leaf Blight
Bacterial leaf blight is caused by Xanthomonas campestris and can infect M. verticillatum in the summer when it is warmer. The disease can cause small spots on the leaves that turn into yellow halos. The spots and halos continue to increase in size and merge, resulting in large necrotic areas. The diseased leaves finally wilt and die. To prevent bacterial leaf blight, remove and destroy the infected leaves and stems. Also, avoid overhead irrigation and maintain good water quality. Copper-based bactericides can be applied to control bacterial leaf blight.
Fungal Leaf Spot
Fungal leaf spot is caused by various fungi such as Cercospora and Phyllosticta and can occur at any time of the year, especially in humid conditions. Symptoms begin as tiny, dark, water-soaked spots on the leaves, which later turn yellow and surrounded by brown borders. The disease can cause defoliation resulting in decreased productivity and the spread of the disease to nearby plants. To control fungal leaf spot, pick off and destroy infected leaves. Proper plant hygiene, good air circulation, and reducing plant stress are effective measures to prevent fungal leaf spot. Additionally, copper-based fungicides can be applied to control fungal leaf spot.
Pest Management of Myriophyllum verticillatum L. var. intermedium W.D.J. Koch
Several pests can infest M. verticillatum, causing damage to the leaves and stems, and even killing the plant. Monitoring the plant regularly can help detect infestations early and prevent damage. Some common pests that might affect the plant include:
Leaf Miners
Leaf miners are small insects that bore through the leaves and cause white tunnels that damage the leaf tissue. These tunnels restrict photosynthesis, causing the plant to wilt, stunt, and produce poor-quality leaves. To manage leaf miners, pick off and discard damaged leaves. Additionally, parasitic wasps can be introduced to control the population of leaf miners naturally. Also, neem oil and insecticidal soap can be sprayed to kill the leaf miner larvae and prevent further infestation.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars are one of the most destructive pests that can feed on the leaves and stems of M. verticillatum. Symptoms include defoliation and twig breakage. To control caterpillars, handpick and destroy the caterpillars. Additionally, biological control agents such as parasitic wasps and Bacillus thuringiensis can be applied.
Snails and Slugs
Snails and slugs can feed on the young leaves and stem of M. verticillatum causing damage to the plant. To manage snails and slugs, remove any leaf debris and provide adequate drainage to limit the areas where these pests can hide. Additionally, use copper strips or diatomaceous earth to repel snails and slugs.
Preventing the entry of pests using preventive measures such as quarantine and good hygiene practice can help prevent infestation by pests and diseases.
