Overview of Polygonum tataricum L.
Polygonum tataricum L. is a plant species belonging to the family Polygonaceae. This plant is an annual herb, which grows up to a height of 60-70 cm. The leaves of the plant have a lanceolate shape with a green color, and the flowers are small and pink-colored. The plant produces a small fruit that is encapsulated with three fruits.
Origin and Common Names
Polygonum tataricum L. is native to the northern regions of China, Japan, and Korea and has been introduced to North America, Europe, and other parts of Asia. The plant has various common names depending on the region and country. In China, it is commonly known as He shou, in Japan as Tatara, and in Korea as Heukcheon. In North America, it is commonly known as Tartary buckwheat.
Uses of Polygonum tataricum L.
Polygonum tataricum L. has various uses, which make it an important plant species. The plant is primarily used for food purposes in China, Japan, and Korea. The seeds of the plant are used to make flour, which is used to make noodles, bread, and other food items. The plant is also used for medicinal purposes and has been found to have various health benefits, such as reducing cholesterol levels, blood sugar levels, and aiding in digestion. Additionally, the plant is cultivated for ornamental purposes due to its attractive appearance.
General Appearance
The plant Polygonum tataricum L. has an attractive appearance, which makes it appealing for ornamental purposes. The plant has a bushy appearance, with green leaves and small pink flowers that bloom in late summer. The fruits of the plant are small and encapsulated with three fruits, which turn brown when mature. The plant requires well-drained soil and full sun exposure to grow optimally.
Light Requirements
Polygonum tataricum L. requires full sunlight for its growth and development. The plant prefers to receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight every day, which helps in the photosynthesis process to provide energy for its growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can grow well in a wide range of temperatures. However, it prefers to grow in a warm environment with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. The ideal temperature range for optimum growth and yield is between 25°C to 27°C. At lower temperatures, the plant growth is slower, and at higher temperatures, the plant becomes stressed, leading to reduced yields.
Soil Requirements
The plant can grow in a wide range of soils, but it prefers well-draining loamy or sandy soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The soil should be fertile, rich in organic matter, and be able to retain moisture without becoming waterlogged. Polygonum tataricum L. can tolerate saline soils up to a certain extent, but it prefers non-saline soil for its growth and development.
The plant requires regular watering during the vegetative phase and early flowering stage. After that, irrigation frequency should be reduced to avoid waterlogging, which can cause damage to the roots. The plant requires regular fertilization, primarily with nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium, to maintain optimum growth and yield.
Cultivation methods
Polygonum tataricum L., also known as Tartary Buckwheat, is a hardy crop that can grow in a wide range of soil types. It does well in soils that are well-drained, sandy or loamy. This plant prefers full sunlight and grows best at temperatures between 18 and 23 degrees Celsius. It can be grown directly from seeds or transplanted as a seedling.
Watering needs
Polygonum tataricum L. requires moderate watering, and the soil must be kept evenly moist. Overwatering can lead to waterlogging, which can harm the plant's roots and cause it to wilt or die. Irrigation must be done regularly, particularly during periods of drought or hot weather. It is essential to water in the early morning or late afternoon to prevent water evaporation and ensure that the plant has enough water to grow.
Fertilization
This plant does not require too much fertilizer as it grows well in soils that are nutrient-rich. However, adding compost or well-rotted manure during planting can give it a good start. If the soil is lacking in nutrients, slow-release fertilizers with a balanced NPK ratio can be applied during the growing season. It's important to avoid excessive use of nitrogen-based fertilizers, which can promote leaf growth at the expense of seeds or fruits.
Pruning
Polygonum tataricum L. does not require extensive pruning. It is advisable to remove any diseased or dead stems and leaves, and to thin out overcrowded areas to improve air circulation. This can help prevent fungal and bacterial diseases from affecting the plant. Additionally, cutting back the plant after flowering can encourage the growth of new shoots and improve seed production.
Propagation of Polygonum tataricum L.
Polygonum tataricum L., commonly known as Tartary buckwheat, is propagated by either seeds or vegetative propagation methods.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Tartary buckwheat are sown in soil prepared with organic matter in the fall season or the early spring season. The ideal temperature for seed germination is between 15-25°C. Seedlings are thinned 5-10 cm apart, and a distance of 50-70 cm is maintained between the rows.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation in Tartary buckwheat can be achieved through layering, cuttings, and division methods.
Layering: The lower branches of the Tartary buckwheat plant are bent, and a part of the stem is buried in the soil, preferably in the spring season. Roots are formed from the buried part. Once the plant is rooted, it is separated from the mother plant and transplanted in a suitable location.
Cuttings: For this method, 5-10 cm-long cuttings are taken from the parent plant and placed in a rooting hormone powder. The cuttings are then planted in a prepared rooting media in pots or directly in the soil. The ideal temperature for rooting is between 20-25°C. After roots have formed, the plants can be transplanted.
Division: Mature plants have a cluster of buds at their base, which can be divided in early spring season. The cluster of buds is carefully divided into smaller sections, and each section is planted separately in a suitable location.
Disease Management
Polygonum tataricum L. may experience several diseases caused by fungi, bacteria, and viruses. Some common diseases that can affect the plant include:
- Fusarium wilt: This disease is caused by the fungus Fusarium oxysporum and can result in wilting, yellowing, and death of the plant. To manage this disease, it is essential to use disease-free seeds and avoid planting the crop in the same field for several consecutive years. Crop rotation, soil sterilization, and fungicide applications can also be useful.
- Anthracnose: Anthracnose is caused by the fungus Colletotrichum spp and can lead to the death of flower buds, leaves, and stems. To control this disease, it is recommended to prune and remove infected parts of the plant. Fungicides can also be utilized, and water management can be helpful in preventing the spread of the disease.
- Root rot: Root rot is caused by numerous soil-borne fungi, including Phytophthora spp., Pythium spp., and Rhizoctonia spp. These fungi can attack the roots of Polygonum tataricum L., leading to wilting, yellowing, and death of the plant. Disease control measures include planting in well-drained soils, crop rotation, and fungicide applications.
Pest Management
Several pests can infest Polygonum tataricum L., leading to yield loss. Common pests that may affect the plant include:
- Root-knot nematodes: These pests can cause stunted growth, yellowing, and wilting of the plant. Crop rotation, soil sterilization, and using nematode-resistant cultivars can be effective management strategies.
- Aphids: Aphids are small insects that can cause leaf curling, yellowing, and stunting of the plant. Insecticides, natural predators, such as ladybugs and lacewings, and reflective mulch can be effective management strategies.
- Cutworms: Cutworms are the caterpillars of several moth species and can cut off the stems of young plants. Management strategies include using cutworm collars or applying insecticides.
