Overview of Nuphar microphylla (Pers.) Fern.
Nuphar microphylla, also known as the small-leaf yellow pond lily, is an aquatic perennial plant that belongs to the Nymphaeaceae family. It is native to North America, specifically found in various ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers in the western United States and western Canada.
General Appearance of Nuphar microphylla (Pers.) Fern.
Nuphar microphylla has a unique appearance, with its leaves and flowers floating on the water's surface, and its rhizomes submerged in the mud of shallow water areas. The plant can grow as tall as three feet and has a spread of up to six feet. The leaves of Nuphar microphylla are green and round, typically 1-4 inches in diameter, shiny, and have slightly wavy edges. On the other hand, its flowers are dazzling yellow and have seven to ten petals, about 1-2 inches in diameter. The plant starts to bloom in June and continues through September.
Common Names of Nuphar microphylla (Pers.) Fern.
Nuphar microphylla is also known by other common names, including Small Yellow Water Lily, Common Yellow Pond Lily, Spatterdock, and Wokas. The Native American tribes in the Pacific Northwest use it as a food source for their traditional dishes like wokas soup and cakes, which explains the third common name Spatterdock.
Uses of Nuphar microphylla (Pers.) Fern.
Aside from being used as a food source, Nuphar microphylla has been utilized for medicinal purposes by Native American cultures. They use the roots and leaves of the plant to relieve indigestion and diarrhea, alleviate skin irritations, and reduce swelling. However, scientific studies are yet to confirm these effects.
Moreover, the plant is beneficial to aquatic animals as it provides food and habitat for fish, amphibians, insects, and birds. The thick roots of Nuphar microphylla also help prevent erosion in water bodies.
In conclusion, Nuphar microphylla is an important aquatic plant that serves various purposes, from being a food source and medicine to providing shelter and food to aquatic animals. Its unique appearance adds beauty to the water bodies it inhabits.
Growth Conditions for Nuphar microphylla (Pers.) Fern.
Nuphar microphylla (Pers.) Fern. is a perennial aquatic plant that is commonly known as Small Yellow Pond Lily. This plant is widely distributed in North America, and its growth conditions vary depending on its habitat, which includes freshwater ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams and rivers.
Light Requirements
Nuphar microphylla requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. In ponds or lakes, the plant can grow in deeper water where there is less light, but it will produce fewer leaves and flowers.
Temperature Conditions
The ideal temperature range for Nuphar microphylla is between 15°C and 25°C. The plant can tolerate colder water temperatures, but growth may slow down. In warmer water, the plant may grow more quickly but could be more susceptible to diseases.
Soil Requirements
Nuphar microphylla grows best in nutrient-rich soil that is composed of silt, sand, and clay. The pH of the soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.0 and 7.5. The plant prefers shallow water or mud, where it can root in the bottom and have access to nutrients.
Water Requirements
As an aquatic plant, Nuphar microphylla requires constant access to water. The plant does best in freshwater that is free from pollutants and has a moderate flow rate. Stagnant water can lead to stagnant growth and increased risk of diseases.
Nutrient Requirements
Nuphar microphylla requires a balanced supply of nutrients, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The plant can absorb these nutrients from the soil or water. However, excess nutrients can promote excessive growth of algae and other microorganisms, which can harm the plant.
Cultivation
Nuphar microphylla is a hardy aquatic plant that prefers to grow in still or slow-moving waters such as ponds, lakes, and ditches. It thrives in full sun to partial shade. When grown in a container, use a loamy clay soil with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5 for the best results. The plant must have access to oxygenated water.
Watering needs
Water is essential for the growth and survival of Nuphar microphylla. The water level of the pond or container should be deep enough to cover the root system of the plant but not completely submerged. Inadequate water not only slows down growth but also affects the overall health of the plant. Water levels fluctuations should not occur to ensure stable growth patterns.
Fertilization
Nuphar microphylla is known to be a heavy feeder. This plant requires rich nutrients, micro, and macronutrients to thrive. It's ideal to apply slow-release aquatic plant fertilizer near the root zone. The frequency of fertilization should be based on environmental factors, the size of the plant, and the rate of growth. A monthly fertilization application is sufficient for most plants, but peak growing seasons may need more frequent application.
Pruning
Nuphar microphylla requires little attention when it comes to pruning. When leaves and stems die or wilt, pruning is necessary. The dying parts must be removed to keep the plant healthy and promote new growth. Pruning must occur once a year during the dormant season in Spring so that it beings with fresh growth when favorable weather sets in. Cutting deadheads and spent flowers extends the blooming period and promotes flowering the following years.
Propagation of Nuphar microphylla (Pers.) Fern.
Nuphar microphylla (Pers.) Fern., commonly known as small yellow pond lily, is a North American aquatic plant that belongs to the Nymphaeaceae family. This plant can be propagated through various methods.
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Nuphar microphylla through seeds is a common and effective method. The seeds of Nuphar microphylla can be collected in the late summer or early fall. Once collected, the seeds should be immediately sown in a container with soil at a depth of 1cm. The container should then be placed in a shallow water body with good sunlight exposure. The seeds will germinate within a couple of weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted to a permanent planting location after they have developed a few leaves and roots.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of Nuphar microphylla is also possible. This method involves taking roots or rhizomes from an established plant and replanting them in a new location. Care should be taken to remove all soil from the rhizomes and roots to prevent the spread of diseases. The replanted root or rhizome should be submerged in shallow water with good sunlight exposure and regularly watered. The establishment rate of a new plant by vegetative propagation is much faster than seed propagation.
Division Propagation
Division propagation of Nuphar microphylla involves dividing an established plant into smaller sections and replanting in new locations. This method can be done in the fall or spring. The sections should have healthy roots and shoots. Each section should be replanted at a depth of 1cm in a new location with shallow water and good sunlight exposure.
Disease and Pest Management for Nuphar microphylla (Pers.) Fern.
Nuphar microphylla is a species of aquatic plant that belongs to the Nymphaeaceae family. Like any other plant, it is susceptible to various pests and diseases that can affect its growth and productivity. Proper disease and pest management practices are necessary to ensure the health and vitality of Nuphar microphylla.
Common Pests
One of the common pests that affect Nuphar microphylla is the water lily beetle (Galerucella nymphaeae). These beetles feed on the leaves of the plants, causing significant damage. To control these pests, it is essential to perform physical removal by handpicking the beetles. Additionally, introducing natural predators such as dragonflies and aquatic birds can help in controlling the population of the water lily beetle.
Another pest that can affect the growth of Nuphar microphylla is the aquatic snail. These snails feed on the soft tissues of the plant and can quickly multiply if left uncontrolled. The best way to manage this pest is to introduce predators such as crayfish, which can feed on the snails and control their population.
Common Diseases
Several diseases can affect the growth and productivity of Nuphar microphylla. One such disease is the leaf rot disease (caused by the fungus Rhizoctonia solani), which affects the leaves of the plant, causing them to turn yellow and eventually rot. To manage this disease, it is essential to remove the diseased leaves and ensure that the plant is not overcrowded, as this can promote the spread of the fungus.
Another common disease that affects Nuphar microphylla is the Pythium root disease, caused by the fungus Pythium spp. This disease affects the roots of the plant, leading to stunted growth and wilting of the leaves. To manage this disease, it is important to maintain proper water quality and avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Conclusion
Proper disease and pest management practices are essential for the health and vitality of Nuphar microphylla. By identifying and managing common pests and diseases, it is possible to maintain healthy and productive Nuphar microphylla plants. A combination of preventive measures and physical removal methods can help to control the spread of pests and diseases, resulting in healthy and thriving aquatic gardens.
