Overview
Nasturtium elongatum E.Mey. ex Burtt Davy var. serratum Burtt Davy is a flowering plant that belongs to the Tropaeolaceae family. It is a native plant to South Africa and commonly known as the Cape nasturtium.
Description
The plant is a herbaceous climber that can grow up to 8 meters tall with long and slender stems. The leaves are round and smooth with a diameter of up to 10 cm. The flowers are radially symmetrical and mostly yellow with some having a touch of brown or red. The plant blooms from July through to October, and the fruit is a capsule with a diameter of up to 2.5 cm with several seeds inside.
Uses
The Cape nasturtium is a plant of great medicinal value. The entire plant is edible, and it is a good source of vitamins C and D. Studies have shown that the plant has antimicrobial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties that aid in treating respiratory infections, sore throats, and coughs. Additionally, the plant is also used in traditional African medicine to treat stomach problems, wounds, and as a blood purifier. The plant has a peppery taste, and the flowers and leaves are commonly used in salads as a garnish or as an ingredient in stir fry dishes.
General Appearance
The Cape nasturtium plant has a distinctive appearance with its elongated stems that climb over surrounding plants or structures. The rounded leaves and bright yellow flowers add color to gardens and natural landscapes. The plant grows well in full sun or partially shaded areas with moist soil. It is an easy plant to grow and care for with minimal maintenance required.
Growth conditions for Nasturtium elongatum E.Mey. ex Burtt Davy var. serratum Burtt Davy
Nasturtium elongatum E.Mey. ex Burtt Davy var. serratum Burtt Davy, also called the Cape watercress, is a plant that is native to South Africa. It is a perennial herb that belongs to the Brassicaceae family and grows up to 60 cm in height. The plant has a creeping habit and prefers wet environments.
Light Requirements
Nasturtium elongatum requires full to partial sunlight to thrive. It can grow in areas with direct sunlight, but it can also tolerate some shade. In areas with intense sunlight, the plants may require some shading during the hottest part of the day.
Temperature Requirements
The Cape watercress is a plant that prefers cool to moderate temperatures. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of 10°C and a maximum temperature of 25°C. However, the plant may not survive in areas with extreme temperatures, such as frost-prone areas or areas with high temperatures above 35°C.
Soil Requirements
The Cape watercress prefers moist soil that is rich in nutrients and organic matter. The pH of the soil should be between 6.0 and 7.5, which is slightly acidic to neutral. The plant can grow in various types of soil, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. However, the soil needs to be well-draining to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot.
Cultivation Methods for Nasturtium elongatum E.Mey. ex Burtt Davy var. serratum Burtt Davy
Nasturtium elongatum E.Mey. ex Burtt Davy var. serratum Burtt Davy is easy to grow and care for in the right conditions. It prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter, and partial shade is suitable for these plants. It is possible to grow them in pots, but they are better off in garden beds.
These plants are winter-growing and summer-dormant. Therefore, the best time to plant Nasturtium elongatum E.Mey. ex Burtt Davy var. serratum Burtt Davy is in late autumn to early spring when the soil is moist.
Watering Needs
Nasturtium elongatum E.Mey. ex Burtt Davy var. serratum Burtt Davy is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering, especially during the growth period. However, during hot seasons, they require occasional watering as the soil dries out. It is essential to avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Nasturtium elongatum E.Mey. ex Burtt Davy var. serratum Burtt Davy does not require a lot of fertilizer. However, applying fertilizers once or twice a year can help promote the plant's growth and flowering. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium content.
The best time to fertilize is during the growing season, preferably in early spring before the flowering period begins. Avoid fertilizing during the winter and summer dormant periods.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Nasturtium elongatum E.Mey. ex Burtt Davy var. serratum Burtt Davy, but shapes plants may be obtained by removing any dead or damaged parts to maintain healthy growth. Pinching back the tips of the plants can help to promote bushy growth and improve flowering.
You can deadhead the spent flowers to reduce seeding and encourage more blooms. This can also keep the plant looking more neat and beautiful.
Propagation of Nasturtium elongatum E.Mey. ex Burtt Davy var. serratum Burtt Davy
Nasturtium elongatum E.Mey. ex Burtt Davy var. serratum Burtt Davy, commonly known as watercress or Indian cress, is a semi-aquatic plant that is used for culinary and medicinal purposes. There are several methods of propagating this plant, including:
Seeds
Nasturtium elongatum can be easily propagated from seeds. The plant produces many small seeds that can be collected and sown directly in the soil or in containers. The seeds germinate quickly and easily, usually within 2-3 weeks, and can be transplanted once the seedlings are large enough to handle.
Cuttings
Another way to propagate Nasturtium elongatum is through cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from the plant during the growing season, usually in the spring or early summer. The cuttings should be about 4-6 inches long and have at least one node or leaf. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting mix. The cuttings should be kept well-watered but not too wet, and should be placed in a warm, bright location. Rooting should occur within a few weeks and the cuttings can be planted outdoors once they are established.
Division
If you have an established Nasturtium elongatum plant, you can propagate it through division. Simply dig up the plant and carefully divide the roots into smaller sections. Each section should have its own stem and a good root system. Replant the sections in well-draining soil and keep them well-watered until they are established.
Overall, Nasturtium elongatum is a relatively easy plant to propagate, and can provide a rewarding addition to a garden or culinary collection.
Disease and Pest Management for Nasturtium elongatum E.Mey. ex Burtt Davy var. serratum Burtt Davy
Nasturtium elongatum is generally resistant to many common diseases and pests. However, when environmental conditions are not optimal, the plant can become susceptible to some diseases and pests. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Botrytis blight: This fungal disease can cause gray mold on leaves and flowers. It thrives in humid conditions, and can be managed by removing infected plant parts and improving air circulation by spacing out the plants. Fungicides can also be used to control the disease.
Downy mildew: This disease can cause yellow patches on leaves, distortion, and stunting of the plant. It thrives in cool, humid conditions. Managing humidity and avoiding overhead watering can prevent the spread of downy mildew. Fungicides can also be used to control the disease.
Pythium root rot: This disease attacks the plant's roots, causing root rot and yellowing of leaves. It thrives in wet soil conditions. Managing moisture levels and avoiding overwatering can prevent the disease from spreading. Fungicides can also be used to control the disease.
Pests
Aphids: These small insects can cause yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. Managing aphids can be done by applying insecticidal soap or neem oil, or by introducing natural predators such as ladybugs.
Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing of leaves and webbing on the plant. Managing spider mites can be done by applying insecticidal soap or neem oil, or by introducing natural predators such as predatory mites.
Whiteflies: These small insects can cause yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, and the spread of viral diseases. Managing whiteflies can be done by applying insecticidal soap or neem oil, or by introducing natural predators such as parasitic wasps.
Regular inspection of the plant and early detection of diseases and pests can prevent their spread and minimize damage to the plant. In addition, practicing good cultural practices such as proper watering and fertilization can promote plant health and reduce the risk of disease and pest infestations.
