Salix groenlandica Lundstr. var. lejocarpa (Anderss.) Lange: Overview
Salix groenlandica Lundstr. var. lejocarpa (Anderss.) Lange is a species of willow tree that belongs to the family Salicaceae. It is commonly known as the greenland willow or arctic willow, and is native to the northern hemisphere, particularly in areas with cold climate and low ground cover.
Appearance
The greenland willow is a shrub or small tree that can grow up to 3 meters tall. Its leaves are small, narrow, and oval-shaped, with a smooth and waxy surface. The bark of the tree is grayish-brown, with numerous thin branches that form a dense crown at the top.
Uses
The greenland willow has been used for a variety of purposes throughout history. The twigs and leaves of the tree have been used by indigenous people as medicine for treating inflammation, fever, and pain. The bark of the tree has also been used to make baskets, nets, and other woven items.
It is also a popular ornamental plant, often used in landscaping due to its hardiness and attractive appearance. Its small size and dense foliage make it ideal for use in rock gardens, hedges, and other small-scale landscape designs.
Conclusion
The greenland willow is an important plant species with many uses, both in traditional medicine and modern landscaping. Its hardiness and attractive appearance make it a popular choice for many gardeners, while its medicinal properties have been valued by indigenous people for centuries.
Light Requirements
The Salix groenlandica Lundstr. var. lejocarpa (Anderss.) Lange plant requires full sun to partial shade to grow well. It grows well in areas with bright light but with partial shade in warmer months to protect the leaves and branches from sunburn.
Temperature Requirements
The Salix groenlandica Lundstr. var. lejocarpa (Anderss.) Lange plant is adapted to a cold climate and can grow well in temperatures ranging from -30 °C to 15°C. However, it grows best in cooler temperatures, and it may struggle in high heat areas. Thus, cool and humid conditions are optimal for the growth of this plant.
Soil Requirements
The Salix groenlandica Lundstr. var. lejocarpa (Anderss.) Lange plant prefers good drainage and moist soils, and it is commonly found in wetlands, along streams, and on damp rocky slopes. It can also grow in slightly acidic soil with a pH ranging between 5.0 and 7.0.
Cultivation Methods
Salix groenlandica Lundstr. var. lejocarpa (Anderss.) Lange, commonly referred to as the greenland willow, is a hardy plant that can be propagated by seed or stem cuttings.
If you are planting from seed, it is recommended to sow them in early spring in a cold frame or outdoors in a well-prepared seedbed. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into their permanent position.
Alternatively, if you are propagating through stem cuttings, you should take cuttings in early spring from a mature plant. These cuttings should be around 8cm long and should be planted in a well-draining potting mix. Keep them in a warm, humid environment until they have established roots and can be transplanted to a permanent position.
Watering Needs
The greenland willow needs to be watered regularly, especially during the summer months. Water the plant deeply and make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
It's important to avoid letting the soil dry out completely, as this can cause stress to the plant and affect its growth and health.
During the winter months, the plant does not require as much water as it enters a dormant phase. However, be cautious not to let the soil completely dry out, as this can damage the roots.
Fertilization
The greenland willow does not require a lot of fertilizer, but you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote growth.
It's important not to over-fertilize the plant, as this can lead to excessive growth that is weak and vulnerable to pests and diseases.
If you notice any signs of nutrient deficiencies, such as yellowing leaves or stunted growth, you can apply a foliar fertilizer to meet the plant's needs.
Pruning
Pruning the greenland willow is not always necessary, but it can help to improve the plant's overall appearance and maintain its health.
You can prune the plant in late winter or early spring, before it starts to produce new growth. Remove any dead, damaged or diseased stems, and thin out the interior branches to allow more light to reach the center of the plant.
Make sure to use sharp, clean pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant, and avoid cutting into the main stems of the plant, as this can cause it stress and affect its growth.
Propagation of Salix groenlandica Lundstr. var. lejocarpa (Anderss.) Lange
Salix groenlandica Lundstr. var. lejocarpa (Anderss.) Lange, also known as Arctic willow, is a native plant species to the Arctic and subarctic regions. It is commonly found in wetland habitats and is an important source of food and shelter for wildlife. If you wish to propagate the plant, here are some options:
Seed Propagation
Propagation through seed is possible but it may be challenging as the seed requires a cold stratification period before it can germinate. You can stratify the seed by placing it in moist sand or sphagnum peat moss and refrigerating it for 60 to 90 days, after which the seed can be sown in a well-draining soil mix. The seeds can also be directly sown outdoors in fall or stratified before sowing in spring.
Cutting Propagation
Propagation through hardwood cuttings is another option. Take cuttings in late winter or early spring from a stem that is not newer than two years old. The cuttings should be at least 15cm long and 0.5-1cm in diameter. Dip the cuttings in a rooting hormone and plant them in soil or peat moss. The cuttings can be maintained in a well-draining soil mix, misted regularly, and covered with a plastic bag to maintain humidity.
Division Propagation
Division of mature plants is also possible, making sure each division has at least one root system.
Regardless of the propagation method chosen, the Arctic willow requires consistent moisture and a partly shady location to thrive. Good drainage is also necessary to prevent waterlogging that can lead to root disease.
Disease Management
Salix groenlandica Lundstr. var. lejocarpa (Anderss.) Lange is generally a hardy plant. However, there are some diseases that may affect its growth and development. The common diseases that this plant may suffer from are:
- Canker: This disease may cause sunken, brownish areas on plant stems. To manage this disease, remove all infected plant parts and destroy them. Apply a fungicide to the affected parts as well as the surrounding areas.
- Rust: This disease presents with yellowish spots on plant leaves, followed by reddish-brown pustules on the underside. To manage rust disease, remove all infected plant parts and destroy them. Apply a fungicide to the affected parts as well as the surrounding areas.
- Anthracnose: This disease may cause leaf spots with tan centers and dark borders. Later, the spots may expand and cause necrosis. To manage anthracnose disease, remove all infected plant parts and destroy them. Apply a fungicide to the affected parts as well as the surrounding areas.
Pest Management
In addition to diseases, Salix groenlandica Lundstr. var. lejocarpa (Anderss.) Lange may be susceptible to pest infestation. The common pests that may affect this plant are:
- Aphids: These sucking insects may cause wilting, curling, and stunting of plant leaves. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oil.
- Leaf beetles: These insects may cause defoliation of plant leaves. To manage leaf beetles, use insecticides such as carbaryl or permethrin, or handpick and destroy the insects.
- Spider mites: These pests may cause yellowing, stippling, and webbing on plant leaves. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oil.
Regular monitoring of Salix groenlandica Lundstr. var. lejocarpa (Anderss.) Lange is essential to prevent the occurrence and spread of diseases and pests. Implementing good cultural practices, such as proper watering, fertilization, and pruning, can also contribute to maintaining the plant's health and vigor.
