Overview of Oxalis Corniculata L. var. Minor Laing
Oxalis corniculata L. var. minor Laing, also known as creeping woodsorrel, procumbent yellow-sorrel, and sleeping beauty, is a species of perennial flowering plant in the family Oxalidaceae. The plant is native to many parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, and North America.
General Appearance of Oxalis Corniculata L. var. Minor Laing
Oxalis corniculata L. var. minor Laing is a low-growing plant, with a height of only a few centimeters. It has a sprawling and creeping habit, with stems that root at the nodes. The leaves of the plant are trifoliate, with each leaflet being heart-shaped and about one centimeter long. The plant produces small, yellow flowers that are about one centimeter in diameter.
Common Names
The common names for Oxalis corniculata L. var. minor Laing include creeping woodsorrel, procumbent yellow-sorrel, and sleeping beauty. Other common names for the plant include creeping oxalis, creeping beggarweeds, and creeping wood sorrel.
Uses of Oxalis Corniculata L. var. Minor Laing
The plant has been used in traditional medicine for many years. It is said to have diuretic, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been used to treat a wide range of ailments, including fever, urinary tract infections, and stomach disorders. In addition, the plant is used as a natural dye and a source of food for some animal species.
Light Requirements
Oxalis corniculata L. var. minor Laing is a plant that requires full sunlight to partial shade for optimal growth. It can tolerate direct sunlight, but it prefers to be planted in areas with some shade during the hottest time of the day. When grown in full shade, the plant may produce fewer flowers and have a weaker growth rate. Therefore, it is essential to place this plant in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight each day.
Temperature Requirements
Temperature plays a significant role in the growth of Oxalis corniculata L. var. minor Laing. It is a warm-season plant that thrives in temperatures ranging from 18°C to 27°C. The plant can withstand moderate frost, but extended exposure to extreme cold temperatures can damage or kill it. Therefore, it is crucial to protect the plant if the temperature drops below 0°C.
Soil Requirements
For optimum growth, Oxalis corniculata L. var. minor Laing requires well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. The soil should be moderately fertile and rich in organic matter. The plant can grow in various soil types, including sandy soil, loamy soil, and clay soil. However, the soil must be well-draining to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot and other fungal diseases. If the soil is heavy or compacted, adding sand or perlite can help improve drainage.
Cultivation methods
Oxalis corniculata L. var. minor Laing is a perennial plant that grows best in warm temperatures ranging from 60-85°F. It can be grown in pots or directly in the garden. When planting in pots, ensure that the potting soil is well-draining and keep the pot in a spot that receives morning sunlight.
When planting in the garden, sow the seeds or transplant the seedlings a week after the last frost. Space the plants about 12 inches apart in well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Ensure the soil has a pH of about 6 to 6.5, as it is ideal for the plant.
Watering needs
Oxalis corniculata L. var. minor Laing requires consistent moisture levels, and the soil should be kept slightly moist. Avoid over-watering or allowing the soil to dry out completely, as it can affect the growth and health of the plant.
During periods of dry weather, you may need to water more frequently. Ensure that the plant has good drainage, as it does not tolerate standing water.
Fertilization
Feed Oxalis corniculata L. var. minor Laing every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer at half strength. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to leaf burn and poor growth.
Incorporating organic matter like compost into the soil before planting can also provide the plant with the necessary nutrients it needs to grow and thrive.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Oxalis corniculata L. var. minor Laing as it has a low-growing, spreading habit that does not require shaping. However, removing dead or damaged leaves and stems can improve the plant's appearance and promote new growth.
Additionally, if the plant begins to outgrow its container or designated area in the garden, it can be divided in spring or early summer to maintain its shape and promote health and vigor.
Propagation of Oxalis corniculata L. var. minor Laing
Oxalis corniculata L. var. minor Laing can be propagated through several methods:
Propagation through seeds
The plant produces tiny seeds that can be collected once the seed pods have dried out on the plant. Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix and keep it moist. The seeds can take up to 4 weeks to germinate, and the young plants should be kept in a warm, bright, and humid environment.
Propagation through division
Oxalis corniculata L. var. minor Laing can also be propagated through division. Simply dig up a mature plant and gently separate the clumps. Each clump should have some roots attached to it. Plant the clumps in a well-draining potting mix and keep it moist. The newly divided plants should be kept in a warm, bright, and humid environment until established.
Propagation through stem cuttings
The plant can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Take cuttings from a mature plant, making sure each cutting has a node or two. Plant the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix and keep it moist. The cuttings should be kept in a warm, bright, and humid environment until established.
Overall, Oxalis corniculata L. var. minor Laing is a hardy plant that can be propagated easily through seeds, division, or stem cuttings.
Disease and Pest Management for Oxalis Corniculata L. var. Minor Laing Plants
Despite being a hardy plant, Oxalis Corniculata L. var. Minor Laing is not immune to pests and diseases. Here are some common problems that a grower may encounter and ways to manage them:
Pests
Aphids: These tiny insects can damage the plant by sucking its sap. Aphids usually gather on the underside of the leaves. You can control their population by spraying your plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Another way is to introduce predatory insects that eat aphids, like ladybugs.
Spider Mites: These tiny mites can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. You can control them by regularly misting the leaves to keep them humid or spraying the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Another way is to introduce predatory mites that feed on spider mites.
Slugs and Snails: These creatures can cause extensive damage by eating large holes in the leaves. You can control their population by handpicking them at night or setting up beer traps. Another way is to spread diatomaceous earth around the plants to act as a barrier.
Diseases
Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease causes a white powder-like substance on the leaves. You can prevent it by making sure that there is good air circulation around the plant. Remove infected leaves and spray the plant with a baking soda solution (1 tsp baking soda, 1 quart water, 1 tsp dish soap). One can also use a fungicide spray as per prescription.
Root Rot: This disease is caused by waterlogged soil. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil drains well by adding perlite and other drainage agents to the soil mix. Ensure that watering is done properly, and the plant is never over-watered or under-watered.
Leaf Spot: This bacterial disease shows as circular yellow spots on the leaves. When spot's size increases they turn brown with a yellow border. Remove infected leaves, and apply a copper fungicide spray as per prescription.
By following these steps, one can avoid most of the common pests and diseases from affecting their Oxalis Corniculata L. var. Minor Laing plants, and produce healthy and beautiful plants.
