Overview:
Salix glauca L. var. pseudolapponum (von Seem.) L. Kelso, commonly known as the Arctic willow, belongs to the willow family (Salicaceae) and is native to the Arctic and subarctic regions of Europe, Asia, and North America.
Description:
The plant is a shrub that grows up to a height of about 4 feet, but in some cases, it can reach up to 12 feet. It's a deciduous plant with a lifespan of about 30 years. The stem is usually grayish-white, and the leaves are narrow, lanceolate, and have a bluish-green tint that gives the plant its common name, "glauca," meaning blue-gray.
Uses:
The Arctic willow has several uses. Historically, native peoples have used the bark and leaves of the plant to treat a variety of ailments, such as headaches and colds. The plant's soft, pliable branches have also been used to weave baskets and other household items, while its wood is used for fuel.
In modern times, the Arctic willow is planted in gardens and landscapes for its aesthetic appeal. It is a hardy plant that can withstand extreme temperatures and is often used in reclamation projects to revegetate disturbed land.
Cultivation:
The Arctic willow is often propagated by seed or stem cuttings. It thrives in moist, well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade. The plant is low-maintenance and does not require much fertilizer or pruning, making it ideal for cultivation in home gardens.
Overall, Salix glauca L. var. pseudolapponum is a versatile plant with historical, cultural, and ecological significance, and it is a valuable addition to any garden or landscape.
Light
Salix glauca L. var. pseudolapponum requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. In areas with hot summers, it prefers some afternoon shade to protect its leaves from scorching. However, partial shade may slow down its growth rate.
Temperature
Salix glauca L. var. pseudolapponum is a cold-hardy plant that can withstand severe winter conditions. It grows best in cooler climates and can tolerate temperatures as low as -40°C. During the growing season, it prefers daytime temperatures between 10-27°C and nighttime temperatures between 0-10°C.
Soil
Salix glauca L. var. pseudolapponum prefers moist, well-drained soils but can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions. It thrives in acidic to slightly alkaline soils, with a pH range of 5.0-8.0. It can grow in sandy, loamy, or clay soils provided they are not waterlogged. The soil should be rich in organic matter to promote root growth and nutrient uptake.
Cultivation of Salix Glauca L. var. Pseudolapponum (von Seem.) L. Kelso
Salix glauca L. var. pseudolapponum (von Seem.) L. Kelso is a hardy shrub that is easy to grow and maintain. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil types, including clay, loamy, and sandy soils. The plant grows best in full sun to partial shade and requires sufficient space to spread its branches.
Watering Needs
Salix glauca L. var. pseudolapponum (von Seem.) L. Kelso prefers moist soil, but it can also tolerate dry conditions. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Fertilization
Salix glauca L. var. pseudolapponum (von Seem.) L. Kelso can benefit from fertilization in the early spring, just before the plant enters its active growth phase. Apply a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Follow the package instructions carefully and avoid overfertilization, which can damage the plant's roots and foliage.
Pruning
Salix glauca L. var. pseudolapponum (von Seem.) L. Kelso does not require heavy pruning. However, you can trim back any dead or diseased wood in the early spring to encourage healthy growth. You can also remove any damaged or crossing branches to give the plant a more attractive shape. Avoid pruning during the winter months, as it can encourage new growth that is susceptible to frost damage.
Propagation of Salix glauca L. var. pseudolapponum (von Seem.) L. Kelso
Salix glauca L. var. pseudolapponum (von Seem.) L. Kelso, commonly known as gray willow, is native to North America and Asia. It is a deciduous shrub, which can grow up to 3 meters tall and 2 meters wide. The plant has narrow, elliptic leaves that are grayish-green in color, and its flowers occur in catkins in early spring.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation of Salix glauca L. var. pseudolapponum (von Seem.) L. Kelso can be achieved by seeds. The seeds should be collected when they are fully mature in late summer or early fall. Once collected, the seeds should be stored in a dry and cool place until the following spring.
In the spring, the seeds should be sown in a well-draining and moist soil mix. They should be planted at a depth of approximately twice their size and covered lightly with soil. The container should be placed in a sunny location with a temperature between 20-25 °C.
The seeds should germinate within 4-6 weeks. After they sprout, the seedlings should be gradually exposed to the outside environment for the next few weeks. Once the seedlings have grown to a height of 10 cm, they can be transplanted into the ground or a larger container.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation of Salix glauca L. var. pseudolapponum (von Seem.) L. Kelso can also be achieved by stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be 10-15 cm long and should be taken from the previous year's growth.
The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and placed in a well-draining soil mix. They should be covered with a plastic bag to keep the humidity high and placed in a location with bright, indirect light and a temperature around 20-25 °C.
Rooting should occur within 4-6 weeks. Once the cuttings have rooted, they should be gradually exposed to outside conditions for the next few weeks. Once the cuttings have grown to a height of 10 cm, they can be transplanted into the ground or a larger container.
Disease Management
Salix glauca L. var. pseudolapponum (von Seem.) L. Kelso is susceptible to a range of diseases, including fungal, bacterial, and viral infections. The most common diseases include:
- Cytospora canker: This fungal disease causes sunken, cracked, and discolored bark on branches and stems. Prune infected branches and apply fungicides.
- Melampsora rust: This fungal disease causes yellow spots on leaves, which later develop into orange or brown pustules on the undersides. Remove infected leaves and apply fungicides.
- Willow scab: This fungal disease causes black spots on leaves, which may lead to defoliation. Apply fungicides and prune infected branches.
To prevent diseases, maintain good plant hygiene by regularly cleaning and pruning the plant. Avoid overhead irrigation and excessive fertilization, which can promote disease development. Use disease-resistant cultivars, and apply fungicides preventatively.
Pest Management
Salix glauca L. var. pseudolapponum (von Seem.) L. Kelso is also susceptible to a range of pests, including insects and mites. The most common pests include:
- Aphids: These small insects feed on the sap of the plant, causing wilting and yellowing of leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
- Sawflies: These insects feed on leaves and can defoliate the plant. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control sawflies.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests feed on the undersides of leaves, causing yellowing and stippling. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control spider mites.
To prevent pest infestations, regularly inspect the plant for signs of pest activity. Use physical barriers, such as insect netting, to prevent pests from accessing the plant. Use pest-resistant cultivars and avoid over-fertilizing the plant, which can attract pests. Finally, use insecticides only as a last resort, and choose products that are safe for beneficial insects.
