Origin and Common Names
Sisymbrium pinnatum is a plant species that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is native to North America, where it grows in open areas such as fields, prairies, and roadsides. The plant is commonly known by several names, including cutleaf mustard, American hedge mustard, and lobed mustard.General Appearance
The Sisymbrium pinnatum plant can grow up to 3 feet in height, and its stem is covered with fine hairs. The leaves are lobed and pinnately dissected, with the lower leaves being larger than the upper. The flowers are small and yellow, and they bloom between April and September. The plant produces slender pods that contain small, brown seeds.Uses
Sisymbrium pinnatum has several uses, including medicinal and culinary purposes. The young leaves and seed pods of the plant have a slightly sweet and spicy flavor and are commonly used as a condiment or in salads. The seeds are also used to make a pungent mustard. In traditional medicine, Sisymbrium pinnatum is used to treat respiratory problems like coughs and colds. It is also believed to have diuretic properties and has been used to relieve kidney and bladder problems. The plant is also known to have antibacterial properties and can act as a natural insecticide. Overall, Sisymbrium pinnatum is a versatile plant with several uses, both in the kitchen and in traditional medicine. Its unique appearance and distinct flavor make it a popular choice for those looking to add variety to their diet.Light Requirement
Sisymbrium pinnatum grows well in full sun or partial shade conditions. It requires at least four to six hours of direct sunlight per day for proper growth and flowering. The plant may tolerate light shade, but prolonged shade can weaken and cause leggy growth.
Temperature Requirement
The plant Sisymbrium pinnatum is a cool-season, hardy annual species that thrives in moderate to cool temperatures. It grows best in temperatures ranging from 10 to 20 °C (50 to 68 °F), making it ideal for planting in early spring or fall. The plant can tolerate light frost and cooler temperatures, but high heat and humidity can cause bolting.
Soil Requirement
Sisymbrium pinnatum prefers moderately fertile, well-draining soil with a pH range of 6 to 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and maintain adequate moisture levels without becoming waterlogged. Avoid heavy clay soils, as they are prone to waterlogging and may stunt plant growth. The addition of compost or aged manure can help improve soil quality and promote healthy growth.
Cultivation of Sisymbrium Pinnatum
Sisymbrium pinnatum is a hardy plant that can tolerate different soil types, but it thrives best in well-draining soils. It grows well in full sun or partial shade, and you can plant it during the early spring or fall.
Watering Needs
While Sisymbrium pinnatum prefers well-draining soil, it requires infrequent watering. Water the plant when the soil around it feels dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's best to allow the soil to dry between watering intervals.
Fertilization
Sisymbrium pinnatum is not a heavy feeder; as such, you do not require to fertilize it regularly. You can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil before planting, which can sustain the plant for an extended period. Alternatively, you can use a liquid fertilizer in small quantities to supplement the soil nutrients.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to keep Sisymbrium pinnatum in good shape and prevent self-seeding. You should remove the spent flower stems to promote the growth of fresh foliage. Dead or yellowing leaves should also be removed as they reduce the plant's aesthetic value. Pruning should be done regularly, especially during the early growth stages, to encourage bushy growth and more flowers.
Propagation of Sisymbrium pinnatum
Sisymbrium pinnatum (Walt.) Greene, commonly known as the lobed yellowcress, is a biennial or short-lived perennial plant that is native to North America. The plant typically grows in moist areas including riverbanks, stream sides, wet meadows, and pastures. The plant produces bright yellow flowers, and its leaves are pinnately-divided with lobed edges. The plant can be propagated through several methods including seeds, stem cuttings, and root cuttings.
Propagation through Seeds
Propagation through seeds is the simplest method to grow Sisymbrium pinnatum. Collect seeds from the parent plant during the fall, when the seeds are mature and dry. The seeds can be stored in a dry and cool place until the following spring. In the early spring, plant the seeds in a prepared bed with well-draining soil in a sunny location. Sow the seeds shallowly and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Keep the soil moist and the seeds will germinate within two weeks. Thin the seedlings to a distance of at least 15 cm apart when they are 5-10 cm tall.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Propagation through stem cuttings is an effective method to grow Sisymbrium pinnatum. Select healthy, non-flowering stems that are at least 10 cm long and make cuttings in the late spring or early summer. Plant the cuttings in a prepared bed with well-draining soil in a sunny location. Insert the cuttings into the soil to a depth of about 3 cm and firm the soil around the cuttings. Keep the soil moist until the cuttings root, which should occur within 2-4 weeks.
Propagation through Root Cuttings
Propagation through root cuttings is another way to grow Sisymbrium pinnatum. Dig up the parent plant during the fall or early spring and remove the lateral roots. Cut the roots into 5-10 cm-long sections and replant them in a prepared bed with well-draining soil in a sunny location. Plant the roots horizontally in the soil, about 3 cm deep, and firm the soil around them. Keep the soil moist until the roots begin to grow, which should occur within 2-4 weeks.
Disease Management
Sisymbrium pinnatum is highly resistant to diseases, and the occurrence of diseases in this plant is relatively minimal. However, when the disease does occur, it is typically a result of fungal attacks, which can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves and stems, accompanied by root and stem rot or spot diseases. The most common fungal disease afflicting S. pinnatum is the Phoma lingam disease.
To manage Phoma lingam, farmers should use clean seeds devoid of fungal contamination. Additionally, farmers are advised to use crop rotation techniques to prevent the disease's spread. If a plant is detected with the disease, call a professional to carry out chemical control of the infected plants.
Pest Management
The Sisymbrium pinnatum plant is often susceptible to aphids, cutworms, and flea beetles infestation, resulting in defoliation and stunted growth.
To manage aphids, farmers are advised to use a combination of insecticidal soap, neem oil, or even biological control agents such as parasitoids and predators. However, given that S. pinnatum is a preferred host by some aphids species, using insecticidal sprays to manage the pest becomes an excellent option.
On the other hand, cutworms can be managed through cultural practices such as deep plowing of farms before planting and handpicking them off the plant. Additionally, barrier protection systems, such as a paper ring placed around each plant, can be used to prevent cutworms from crawling to the plant's stem.
Lastly, flea beetles thrive in dry conditions, and hence, farmers are advised to keep soil moisture levels at a maximum. Also, farmers can use exclusion barriers in the farm, or even use floating row covers to prevent the beetle's movement to the plants.
