Overview of Selaginella watsonii Underwood
Selaginella watsonii Underwood, commonly known as Watson's spikemoss or Watson's resurrection plant, is a species of fern ally in the family Selaginellaceae. It is native to the western region of North America, particularly in California, Nevada, and Arizona.
Description of Selaginella watsonii Underwood
The plant has a sprawling habit and spreads through creeping stems or stolons that form dense mats. It has a relatively small size, reaching only up to 10 cm in height. It has lanceolate leaves that are dark green on the upper surface and paler on the underside. It is a heterosporous plant, meaning that it has two different types of spores for reproduction. Watson's spikemoss also features small, spiky cones that adorn the tips of its branches.
Uses of Selaginella watsonii Underwood
Watson's spikemoss has long been of interest to the scientific community due to its ability to survive extreme dryness and sudden hydration. It can undergo a state of desiccation and revive after being rehydrated. As such, the plant has been the subject of studies investigating potential biotechnological applications like soil stabilization and crop management in arid regions. Watson's spikemoss also has ornamental uses, as it is a popular choice for terrariums and indoor gardens.
Conclusion
Selaginella watsonii Underwood, also known as Watson's spikemoss, is a small heterosporous plant native to the western region of North America. While it may be small in stature, it boasts unique adaptations that have caught the attention of researchers. Beyond its scientific significance, Watson's spikemoss is also a stunning addition to indoor gardens and terrariums.
Light Requirements
Selaginella watsonii Underwood thrives in a variety of light conditions, ranging from partial shade to full sun. However, direct exposure to intense sunlight can cause leaf scorching, particularly during the warmer months. Therefore, it is best to provide the plant with bright but indirect light for most of the day.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Selaginella watsonii Underwood growth is between 60-75°F (15-24°C). This plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 45°F (7°C) but avoid exposing it to freezing temperatures. High temperatures exceeding 85°F (29°C) can damage the foliage and lead to wilting.
Soil Requirements
Well-draining soil that retains moisture but does not become waterlogged is the best option for Selaginella watsonii Underwood. A mixture of peat moss, sand, and loamy soil can provide the ideal growing medium for this plant. The pH level of the soil should range from neutral to slightly acidic with a pH range of 5.5-7.5.
Cultivation methods for Selaginella watsonii Underwood
Selaginella watsonii Underwood, also known as Watson's spike-moss, is a plant that is relatively easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance, making it an ideal plant for beginners. It prefers a location with bright but indirect light, such as a north-facing window or under a shade tree.
The ideal growing conditions for Selaginella watsonii Underwood are temperatures between 60-75°F and a humidity level that ranges between 50% and 70%. It requires well-draining soil that is consistently moist, but not soggy, as this plant does not tolerate dry conditions well.
Watering needs for Selaginella watsonii Underwood
Watering Selaginella watsonii Underwood should be done consistently to avoid allowing the soil to dry out. However, overwatering can lead to root rot and damage the plant's overall health. A good rule of thumb is to water this plant once a week or when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch. When watering, ensure that the soil is evenly saturated and excess water is drained out of the pot.
Fertilization for Selaginella watsonii Underwood
Since Selaginella watsonii Underwood is a slow-growing plant, it does not require frequent fertilization. However, you can fertilize once every four to six weeks using a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half its usual strength. Over-fertilization can lead to a buildup of excess salts in the soil and harm the plant.
Pruning Selaginella watsonii Underwood
Selaginella watsonii Underwood does not require regular pruning, but you can pinch back the new growth tips to promote bushier growth. However, avoid cutting back more than one-third of the plant's overall growth as this can damage it. It is also recommended to remove any yellow or brown leaves to enhance the plant's aesthetic appeal and overall health.
Propagation of Selaginella watsonii Underwood
Selaginella watsonii Underwood or Watson's spikemoss is a unique and attractive plant that can be propagated using the following methods:
Division
The most common method of propagating Selaginella watsonii is by dividing the parent plant. This involves carefully digging up the plant and separating the stems into smaller sections with a sharp, sterile knife and replanting these sections into individual pots.
Spores
Another method of propagating Selaginella watsonii is through spores. The spores are small, dust-like structures that can be collected from the fronds of the plant, using a sterile container.
The spores are then sown onto a moist soil mixture and placed in a warm and humid environment. It may take several weeks to see growth, but once the spores grow into small plants, they can be carefully transplanted into individual pots.
Cuttings
Cuttings can also be taken from Selaginella watsonii. This involves carefully cutting off a stem of the plant, removing the lower leaves, and planting it into a pot with a well-draining soil mixture.
The cutting then needs to be kept in a warm and humid environment and misted regularly until new growth appears.
Summary
In summary, there are three main methods of propagating Selaginella watsonii - division, spores, and cuttings. Careful attention must be paid to the requirements of each method to ensure successful propagation of this delicate and attractive plant.
Disease Management
Selaginella watsonii Underwood is a resilient plant that doesn't typically suffer from diseases if grown in optimum conditions. However, there are some diseases that can affect the plant, especially if grown in unfavorable environments or if proper care is not taken.
One of the most common diseases encountered by this plant is root rot, which is caused by waterlogged soil, poor drainage, overwatering, or fungal infections. To prevent root rot from affecting the plant, avoid overwatering the plant, provide well-draining soil, and maintain a moderate watering routine to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Another disease that can affect Selaginella watsonii is Powdery Mildew. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears on leaves and other plant parts as a white, powdery substance. This disease is often caused by poor air circulation, high humidity, and low light. To prevent powdery mildew, maintain good air circulation and avoid overcrowding the plant. Also, remove infected plant parts and dispose of them properly to prevent the disease from spreading.
Pest Management
Selaginella watsonii is susceptible to infestation by pests like spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. These pests can weaken the plant, inhibit growth and cause discoloration.
Spider mites are the most common pest that affects Selaginella watsonii. They are usually common in dry and dusty areas and cause yellowing leaves and webbing on the plant. To prevent spider mites, regularly mist the plant to increase humidity levels around the plant and remove the affected plant parts.
Scale insects and mealybugs usually attach themselves to the plant and suck the sap, causing the plant's leaves to wither and die. To manage this pest infestation, use a cotton ball dipped in alcohol to wipe the affected plant parts or use insecticidal soap to control the infestation.
Overall, providing optimum growing conditions, proper watering routine, good air circulation and regular plant inspection can help prevent these pests and diseases from affecting Selaginella watsonii.
