Overview
Polemonium occidentale Greene ssp. lacustre Wherry is a flowering plant species in the Polemoniaceae family. It is commonly known as Western Jacobs ladder.
Origin
The Western Jacobs ladder is native to western North America, stretching from Alaska down to northern California.
General Appearance
The Western Jacobs ladder is a perennial herb that grows up to 60 cm tall. This plant is usually found near streams, rivers, and other wet environments. It has pinnately compound leaves with pointed leaflets that have a smooth margin. The inflorescence forms a compact cluster of small flowers that are blue to purple in color. The flowers have five fused petals and five stamens. The fruits are small capsules.
Uses
The Western Jacobs ladder has limited traditional medicinal uses. Its root has been used by Native Americans to treat stomach and lung ailments. It is also used as a tea for colds and coughs. This plant is often found in the wild and is not commonly cultivated for ornamental purposes. However, it can be a beautiful addition to a rock garden or a border in a wet area of a garden.
Light Requirements
Polemonium occidentale Greene ssp. lacustre Wherry typically requires full sun or partial shade for optimal growth. Full sun is ideal in cooler climates, while partial shade is preferred in warmer regions. This plant can also tolerate some shade, but it may not bloom as much under these conditions.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is generally hardy and can grow in a wide range of temperatures, including both hot and cold climates. It can tolerate heat up to 90°F and cold temperatures down to -25°F. However, it thrives in cooler climates with temperatures in the range of 60°F to 75°F.
Soil Requirements
Polemonium occidentale Greene ssp. lacustre Wherry prefers well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It can tolerate some dryness in the soil, but it prefers moist soil conditions. This plant can also grow in poor and rocky soils, as long as the soil is well-drained.
It is important to note that this plant is sensitive to excessive nutrients, especially nitrogen, which can lead to excessive growth and reduced blooming. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid fertilizing this plant or to use fertilizers with low nitrogen content.
Cultivation
Polemonium occidentale Greene ssp. lacustre Wherry, commonly known as the western Jacob's ladder, is a perennial plant that thrives in moist soil. It is often found in meadows, open woods, and along streams in diverse habitats such as mountain slopes and valleys, forest glades, and meadowlands. The plant prefers well-draining soil and partial to full sun. It can also tolerate some shade, especially during the hot summer months.
Watering Needs
Like most plants, Polemonium occidentale requires regular watering, especially during the hot and dry summer months, to maintain adequate moisture levels. However, the plant is susceptible to root rot if the soil is waterlogged. Therefore, it is essential to ensure proper drainage and avoid over-watering. A good practice is to water whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Applying a layer of mulch around the base of the plant helps retain moisture and prevent weeds from competing for water and soil nutrients.
Fertilization
Polemonium occidentale does not require heavy fertilization. Adding organic compost or a slow-release fertilizer in the spring is sufficient to provide the soil with the necessary nutrients. The application of a balanced fertilizer like a 10-10-10 can also help promote healthy growth, especially if the plant shows signs of stunted growth or discolored foliage. However, it is essential to ensure that the fertilizer does not contain excessive amounts of nitrogen, as it can cause lush growth at the expense of flower production.
Pruning
Polemonium occidentale does not require extensive pruning, but it benefits from deadheading, which involves removing the spent flower heads. Deadheading helps promote the development of new flowers and prevents the plant from self-seeding excessively. Additionally, pruning the plant by removing the yellowing or damaged leaves, especially in the fall, enhances the plant's overall appearance and ensures that the plant is free from any disease or insect infestations. It is also a good idea to cut back the plant by about a third if it appears too leggy or has outgrown its space.
Propagation of Polemonium Occidentale Greene ssp. Lacustre Wherry
Polemonium occidentale Greene ssp. lacustre Wherry, also known as bog polemonium, can be propagated through both seed and vegetative methods.
Seed propagation
The most common method of propagating bog polemonium is through seed. Collect the seeds when the seed capsules turn brown and brittle, ensuring that the seeds are fully mature. Clean the seeds and remove any debris or chaff. Sow the seeds in fresh potting soil or sand, covering them with a light layer of the planting medium. Keep the soil moist and place the container in a partially shaded area. The seeds will usually germinate within two weeks and can be transplanted once they have developed their second set of true leaves.
Vegetative propagation
Bog polemonium can also be propagated vegetatively through division or cuttings. Division is best done in the spring, when plants are actively growing. Dig up the plant and gently separate the roots into sections, ensuring that each section has a portion of the stem and several buds. Replant the sections in a suitable location, ensuring that they are kept moist until they establish.
Another option is to take stem cuttings in the late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Cut a 3-4 inch stem section that has at least two leaves and no flower buds. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone, then insert it into a rooting medium or potting soil. Keep the soil moist and place in a partially shaded location. Once roots have formed, usually in 4-6 weeks, the new plants can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Disease and Pest Management for Polemonium occidentale Greene ssp. lacustre Wherry
Polemonium occidentale Greene ssp. lacustre Wherry, also known as western polemonium or bog polemonium, is a native plant in North America. It has small blue flowers and thrives in wet environments such as bogs and marshes. While the plant is generally hardy, it can still be susceptible to various diseases and pests.
Common Diseases
Some common diseases that affect western polemonium include:
- Botrytis Blight: A fungal disease that causes wilting of leaves and stems, and brown spots on plant tissue. It is often caused by moist conditions and can spread rapidly.
- Leaf Spot: A fungal disease that causes circular brown or black spots to appear on leaves. In severe cases, it can lead to defoliation.
- Powdery Mildew: A fungal disease that appears as white or gray powdery patches on leaves, stems, and flowers.
Pest Management
Western polemonium can also be affected by pests, such as:
- Aphids: Small insects that feed on the sap of plants and can cause distorted growth and yellowing leaves.
- Spider Mites: Tiny pests that also feed on plant sap and can cause leaves to turn yellow and drop prematurely.
- Slugs and Snails: These pests can chew holes in the leaves and stems of the plant, causing damage and affecting its overall health.
Disease Management
To manage diseases, it is important to keep the plant healthy and avoid the conditions that can promote fungal growth. This includes avoiding overhead watering, promoting good airflow around the plant, and removing any infected plant material. Fungicides can also be used to manage diseases such as botrytis blight and powdery mildew.
Pest Management
For pest management, it is important to regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation and take immediate action. This can include using insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to control aphids and spider mites. Creating physical barriers such as copper tape around the base of the plant can also help deter slugs and snails.
Overall, maintaining good plant health and taking preventative measures can help manage diseases and pests for western polemonium.
