Neogaerrhinum kelloggii (Greene) Thieret
Neogaerrhinum kelloggii (Greene) Thieret, also known as Kellogg's snapdragon, is a species of flowering plant in the family Plantaginaceae. The species is native to North America, where it is found in California, Nevada, and Oregon.
Common Names
The common names for Neogaerrhinum kelloggii include Kellogg's snapdragon and Kellogg's monkeyflower. The plant is also sometimes referred to as yellow monkeyflower.
Uses
Neogaerrhinum kelloggii is mainly grown as an ornamental plant due to its beautiful yellow flowers. The plant is very easy to grow, does well in a variety of soil types, and is drought tolerant. Additionally, the plant attracts pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds to the garden.
General Appearance
Neogaerrhinum kelloggii is an herbaceous perennial that grows 1-3 feet tall. The plant has lance-shaped green leaves that are 1-2 inches long. The flowers are bright yellow and tubular in shape, measuring 1 inch in length. The blooms grow in clusters at the top of the stems and give off a floral fragrance. The seeds of the plant are small, brown, and oval-shaped.
Overall, Neogaerrhinum kelloggii is a beautiful and low-maintenance garden plant that adds a pop of yellow color to any landscape.
Growth Conditions for Neogaerrhinum kelloggii (Greene) Thieret
Neogaerrhinum kelloggii is a species of flowering plant commonly found in western North America. This plant species is well-adapted to growing in dry, rocky soil of meadows and ridges. It is an herbaceous perennial with a height ranging from 10-80 cm and a woody base.
Light Requirements
Neogaerrhinum kelloggii requires full sun to partial shade to grow properly and fully. It can tolerate some shade but will thrive in full sunlight. Adequate sunlight is important for photosynthesis, which is essential for the plant to produce energy and grow. Therefore, planting this species in an area that receives enough sunlight will help it to reach its full potential.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species can withstand a variety of temperatures and climates, but it prefers a warm, dry climate to grow properly. It grows well in USDA zones 6-10, where temperatures range from -23 to 40°C (-10 to 105°F). Neogaerrhinum kelloggii can survive light frost in late fall but requires protection from harsh winter conditions to stay alive. During hot, dry summers, the plant can require extra watering to maintain its moist soil conditions.
Soil Requirements
Neogaerrhinum kelloggii prefers a well-draining soil with low to moderate fertility. The plant thrives in rocky or gravelly soils that are lean in organic matter. It's adapted to grow in sandy or clay soils as well. The best soil pH range for growing this species is 5.6 to 8.0. Gardeners and horticulturists can add sand, perlite, or vermiculite to the soil for better drainage. Overwatering is not recommended as the plant can suffer from root rot if the soil remains too wet for too long.
Cultivation Methods
Neogaerrhinum kelloggii, also known as Kellogg’s snapdragon, is a perennial plant that requires well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight for healthy growth. To cultivate this plant, start by preparing the soil by adding organic matter such as compost to improve soil fertility. Plant the seedlings in a location with adequate sunlight and ensure that the soil is consistently moist through regular watering.
Watering Needs
Neogaerrhinum kelloggii requires consistent moisture to thrive, especially during the growing season. Water the plant regularly, but ensure that the soil does not become waterlogged which could lead to root rot. During hot and dry weather conditions, increase the amount of water to keep the soil moist.
Fertilization
Fertilization is crucial to the growth and development of Neogaerrhinum kelloggii. Apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth. Use a slow-release granular fertilizer or apply a water-soluble fertilizer once every month. Ensure that you follow the manufacturer's instructions for application guidelines and rates.
Pruning
Pruning is vital to the health and development of Neogaerrhinum kelloggii. It helps to prevent overcrowding, maintain the plant's shape, and encourage healthy growth. Prune the plant annually by cutting back the stems to about 6 inches above the ground level. This pruning should occur in the early spring before new stem growth appears. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged stems or leaves regularly to improve air circulation and prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Neogaerrhinum kelloggii (Greene) Thieret
Neogaerrhinum kelloggii (Greene) Thieret, commonly known as the Kellogg's snapdragon, is a species of flowering plant native to California. It is a relatively easy plant to propagate and can be done through three main methods: seed propagation, division, and stem cuttings.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method for propagating Neogaerrhinum kelloggii. The best time to sow the seeds is in the fall, as this gives them the chance to overwinter and germinate in the spring. The seeds should be sown in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil and kept moist until germination. The seedlings should be transplanted into individual pots once they have developed two to three true leaves and grown to a height of approximately 3 inches. The young plants should be gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions before being planted in their final location.
Division
Division is another method for propagating Neogaerrhinum kelloggii plants. The best time to divide the plant is in the spring after new growth has emerged. The plant should be dug up carefully and the clumps separated into smaller sections. Each section should contain a portion of the plant's root system and several new shoots. The divided sections should be replanted immediately in well-draining soil and kept well watered until they are established.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings is the third method for propagating Neogaerrhinum kelloggii plants. The best time to take stem cuttings is in the late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be taken from new growth and should be approximately 3 to 4 inches long. Any leaves on the lower portion of the cutting should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in well-draining soil. The cutting should be kept moist and in a bright, but not direct, light until it develops roots and can be transplanted to its final location.
Disease Management
Neogaerrhinum kelloggii is relatively resistant to diseases but can still be affected by some fungi and viruses. Here are some common diseases that the plant may encounter and ways to manage them:
Botrytis blight
This fungal disease can cause grayish moldy spots, stem rot, and leaf spots. Botrytis blight occurs in environments that are cool and moist. Ensure that the plant is not overwatered and that there is enough airflow to prevent the disease from spreading. In severe cases, remove the affected parts of the plant and apply fungicides to control the spread.
Cucumber mosaic virus
This viral disease causes the plant's leaves to develop yellow spots, stunted growth, and distorted leaves. Infections can be transmitted through aphids and other pests. If you notice any symptoms of the virus, uproot and destroy the affected plants, and clean all gardening equipment. Using insecticides can help control the spread of the virus.
Verticillium wilt
This soil-borne fungus causes the leaves of the plant to wilt and die. The fungus infects the plant through the roots and grows through the plant’s vascular system, causing blockage and preventing the movement of water and nutrients throughout the plant. Ensure that the plant is adequately fertilized and watered, and avoid planting the Neogaerrhinum kelloogii plant in soil that has previously been infected with the fungus.
Pest Management
Neogaerrhinum kelloggii is relatively pest-resistant, but it could be affected by some pests. Here are some common pests that might invade the plant and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are tiny green or black insects that suck the sap out of the plant. They can cause stunted plant growth, yellowing of leaves, and eventual death. Use neem oil or insecticidal soaps to control the pests. Ensure that the plants are correctly watered and fertilized to help the plants tolerate the damage.
Spider mites
Spider mites are small arachnids that cause extensive damage to the plant's foliage by sucking out the chlorophyll. They are usually found on the undersides of leaves and are identified by the yellow spots they create on the leaves. You can control spider mites by regularly spraying the plant with water and using insecticidal soaps. Take strict measures to prevent overcrowding and improve the environment airflow to keep these pests at bay.
Thrips
These insects cause the foliage of the plant to become flecked or silvered, and They also cause defoliation when they occur in large numbers. Spray the plant with water to remove thrips physically. You can also control thrips by using reflective mulch to repel them elusively, or releasing predatory insects such as ladybugs and lacewings to eat the pests without harming the plant.
