Overview
Oxycoccus intermedius (Gray) Rydb., commonly known as Bog cranberry or Small Bog Cranberry, is a small evergreen shrub of the Ericaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in bogs, swamps, fens, and other wetland habitats. The plant is commonly known as Bog Cranberry because the reddish fruits resemble the common cranberry and are found in similar habitats.
Appearance
The plant grows up to 15 cm tall and has woody stems that are often prostrate. The leaves are small and alternate. They measure about 1 to 2 cm long and are elliptical or oblong in shape. The upper surface of the leaves is glossy and dark green, while the underside is lighter and slightly hairy. In late spring or early summer, the plant produces small white or pinkish flowers that are bell-shaped and drooping. The fruit is a bright red berry, about 6 to 10 mm in diameter, with a tart, acidic taste.
Uses
Bog cranberry has a long history of medicinal use among indigenous communities in North America. The plant was traditionally used as a digestive aid, a treatment for urinary tract infections, and as a general tonic to promote overall health and wellbeing. The fruit is high in vitamin C and antioxidants, and is still used today in some traditional medicines. The plant also has ornamental value and is used in rock gardens, along the edges of garden ponds, and in container gardens.
Cultivation
Oxycoccus intermedius can be planted in moist, acidic soil or in a bog garden. It prefers a cool and moist environment and is hardy in USDA zones 2-7. The plant can be propagated by seed or by division. It requires regular watering and can benefit from a layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. The plant is generally pest and disease-free.
Growth Conditions for Oxycoccus intermedius (Gray) Rydb.
Oxycoccus intermedius (Gray) Rydb. is a perennial plant that requires specific growth conditions for optimum growth and development.
Light Requirements
The plant requires moderate to high levels of light for growth and development. It grows well in areas that receive full sun to partial shade. In low light conditions, the plant tends to grow taller and more spindly than normal, resulting in reduced productivity.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in cool, moist environments. Ideal temperature for growth is between 14 to 18 degrees Celsius. They can withstand low temperatures to a certain extent, but growth may become stunted in temperatures below 5 degrees Celsius. On the other hand, high temperatures can have adverse effects on the plant's growth and development.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers acidic soils with pH levels between 4.0 to 5.5. The soil should also be well-drained and rich in organic matter. Sandy loam to peat soils is ideal for the growth of Oxycoccus intermedius. The presence of calcium carbonate or magnesium carbonate in the soil can have a detrimental effect on the plant's growth and development.
In summary, the ideal growth conditions for Oxycoccus intermedius include moderate to high levels of light, cool, moist environments, and acidic, well-drained soils rich in organic matter.
Cultivation Methods
Oxycoccus intermedius, commonly known as the intermediate cranberry, is best grown in a moist, acidic soil with good drainage. It thrives best in semi-shade or full sun areas with temperatures between 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit. Planting should be done in the spring or fall when temperatures are cooler, and the ground is moist.
Before planting, prepare the soil by loosening it to a depth of at least 8 inches using a garden fork or tiller. Add a generous amount of peat moss, pine needles, or other acidic organic matter to the soil to improve drainage, acidity, and fertility. Mix the soil thoroughly and create raised beds that are at least 6 inches high and 12-18 inches wide.
Plant the intermediate cranberry in the prepared soil-filled raised beds or containers that are 8-10 inches deep. Space the plants 12-18 inches apart and at least 1 inch deep while making sure the roots are well-covered with soil. Water thoroughly after planting to promote root development.
Watering Needs
The intermediate cranberry requires moist soil throughout the growing season. It is crucial to maintain consistent moisture levels in the soil to avoid waterlogging or drying out of the roots, which can cause the plants to wilt and die.
Watering should be done regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plants when the soil begins to dry out, especially during periods of hot and dry weather.
Consider using an irrigation system to ensure the plants receive adequate water during dry spells, making sure to avoid overwatering. Weekly deep watering is recommended during the summer and fall months.
Fertilization
The intermediate cranberry requires a low-nitrogen fertilizer application in spring when new growth appears. Fertilizer should be evenly distributed around the plants, leaving at least a 2-inch gap between the fertilizer and the stem. Avoid getting the fertilizer directly on the leaves as it may cause damage.
It is advisable to use organic fertilizer, such as fish emulsion, bone meal, or blood meal, to promote healthy and vigorous growth while minimizing the risk of chemical buildup in the soil. Fertilize sparingly to avoid overfeeding, which can damage the roots and potentially kill the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to promote the production of healthy new shoots and fruiting branches while maintaining the shape of the plant. It is best to prune the intermediate cranberry in early spring or in winter when the plant is dormant.
Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches or stems by cutting them just above the healthy wood using sterilized pruning shears. Also, remove any overcrowded or crisscrossing branches and any suckers growing from the base of the plant to promote air circulation and light penetration.
It is advisable to remove up to 30% of the plant whenever pruning to allow for new growth and avoid over pruning, which can weaken the plant. Regular pruning of the intermediate cranberry promotes healthy growth, improves fruit production, and increases the lifespan of the plant.
Propagation of Oxycoccus intermedius
Oxycoccus intermedius (Gray) Rydb., commonly known as the small intermediate cranberry or the dwarf cranberry, is a subshrub species that belongs to the Ericaceae family. This plant is typically found growing in bogs, swamps, and moist coniferous forests in North America.
Propagation methods
Oxycoccus intermedius can be propagated through various means, including:
1. Seeds
One method of propagation for Oxycoccus intermedius is through seeds. Seeds from mature fruit of the plant can be collected and sown in a well-draining soil mix in the fall or early spring. It is best to stratify seeds for around three months before sowing them to enhance germination rates.
2. Cuttings
Another propagation method for Oxycoccus intermedius is from cuttings. Cuttings can be taken from healthy, young growth and rooted in a moist rooting medium in a warm, bright location. This process takes around three to six months for cuttings to develop roots.
3. Division
Propagation of Oxycoccus intermedius can also be carried out through dividing mature plants. The best time to divide these plants is early spring or late winter before new growth starts to emerge. Plants are dug up and divided into multiple sections, ensuring each section has a minimum of one growth point.
Propagation of Oxycoccus intermedius can be easy, and with proper care, this plant can thrive and provide many benefits in a garden or landscape.
Disease Management
Oxycoccus intermedius is susceptible to several diseases that can severely affect its productivity. The following are some common diseases and management practices recommended to control them:
Leaf Spot
Leaf Spot is a foliar disease that causes small, circular spots on the leaves that eventually enlarge and merge, leading to defoliation. To manage this disease, avoid overcrowding plants and remove diseased leaves, avoid overhead irrigation, and apply fungicides such as copper-based products as soon as symptoms appear.
Fruit Rot
Fruit Rot can cause significant economic losses to Oxycoccus intermedius growers. It causes the fruits to become soft, watery, and eventually, they rot. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected fruits and avoid overhead irrigation. Apply fungicides such as captan or benomyl to protect fruits before symptoms occur.
Pest Management
Oxycoccus intermedius can also be attacked by several pests that can reduce yield and cause severe economic losses. The following are some common pests and management practices recommended to control them:
Sparganothis fruitworm
The Sparganothis fruit worm attacks the fruits of Oxycoccus intermedius, causing significant damage. To manage this pest, release natural enemies such as Trichogramma wasps, avoid over-fertilization, and use insecticides such as spinosad or Bacillus thuringiensis.
Weevils
Weevils are known to attack Oxycoccus intermedius roots and can cause significant damage, leading to wilting and stunted growth. To manage this pest, avoid overwatering and remove weeds that serve as breeding sites. Use insecticides such as bifenthrin or carbaryl to control them.
These management practices can help maintain the health and productivity of Oxycoccus intermedius, ensuring high yields and revenue for growers.
