Origin
Solidago simplex Kunth ssp. randii (Porter) Ringius var. gillmanii (Gray) Ringius, commonly known as "Gillman's goldenrod," is a native plant to the western United States. It can be primarily found in the states of Nevada, Utah, Colorado, and Wyoming.
Common Names
Aside from Gillman's goldenrod, the plant is also commonly referred to as Rand's goldenrod, Rand's aster, and Yellowstone goldenrod.
Uses
Gillman's goldenrod has been used by Native Americans for ceremonial and medicinal purposes. The plant extracts have been used to treat headaches, colds, fever, and stomachaches. Additionally, the goldenrod genus is commonly used in the floral industry as a cut flower. Gillman's goldenrod is also a highly attractive plant to pollinators such as butterflies and bees, making it a popular choice for butterfly and pollinator gardens.
General Appearance
Gillman's goldenrod is a robust perennial plant that can grow to be 1 to 3 feet tall. The stems are woody at the base, while the leaves are elongated and slightly toothed. The flowers are yellow and bloom in late summer to early fall, forming clusters that can reach up to 8 inches long. The root system of the plant is rhizomatous, making it an excellent choice for stabilizing soil.
Light Requirements
The Solidago simplex Kunth ssp. randii (Porter) Ringius var. gillmanii (Gray) Ringius plant typically requires full sunlight to grow. It cannot survive in shady or partially shaded areas. Therefore, it is suitable for planting in open areas such as fields and meadows.
Temperature Requirements
The Solidago simplex Kunth ssp. randii (Porter) Ringius var. gillmanii (Gray) Ringius plant can grow in a wide range of temperature conditions. It can tolerate both hot and cool temperatures. However, it grows best in regions where the temperature ranges between 15°C and 30°C.
Soil Requirements
The Solidago simplex Kunth ssp. randii (Porter) Ringius var. gillmanii (Gray) Ringius plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. It grows well in sandy, loamy, and clayey soils that are rich in organic matter. However, it cannot survive in waterlogged or poorly drained soils.
Cultivation Methods for Solidago simplex Kunth ssp. randii (Porter) Ringius var. gillmanii (Gray) Ringius
Solidago simplex Kunth ssp. randii (Porter) Ringius var. gillmanii (Gray) Ringius, commonly known as the Gillman's goldenrod, requires full sun exposure to thrive. The plant prefers well-draining soil, but it can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay soil, loam soil, and sand soil. Make sure to plant the goldenrods in a spacious area because it can grow up to 3-4 feet in height and spread.
You can propagate the plant through stem cuttings or division. If propagating through stem cuttings, make sure to take the cutting in the early summer. If dividing, you can do it in early spring or fall.
Watering Needs of Solidago simplex Kunth ssp. randii (Porter) Ringius var. gillmanii (Gray) Ringius
The plant requires moderate watering, especially during the growing season. Water the plant deeply once a week, providing about 1 inch of water. Goldenrods can tolerate drought conditions but avoid overwatering as it may cause root rot.
Fertilization of Solidago simplex Kunth ssp. randii (Porter) Ringius var. gillmanii (Gray) Ringius
Goldenrods are not heavy feeders but can benefit from a balanced fertilizer application once a month during the growing season. You can use a slow-release granular or apply a liquid fertilizer, following the manufacturer's instructions.
Pruning of Solidago simplex Kunth ssp. randii (Porter) Ringius var. gillmanii (Gray) Ringius
Goldenrods do not require regular pruning, but you can pinch back new growth in early summer to encourage branching and bushier growth. In late fall, you can remove the spent flowers and cut the stems back to prevent the plant from self-seeding and spreading uncontrollably.
Propagation of Solidago simplex Kunth ssp. randii (Porter) Ringius var. gillmanii (Gray) Ringius
Solidago simplex Kunth ssp. randii (Porter) Ringius var. gillmanii (Gray) Ringius can be propagated through various methods. The plant can either be grown from seed or vegetative means.
Propagation by Seed
The propagation by seed method is a low-cost method of propagating Solidago simplex Kunth ssp. randii (Porter) Ringius var. gillmanii (Gray) Ringius. For this, you should collect mature seeds after the flowering season is over. The seeds must be collected before they disperse. Once the seeds are collected, they should be air-dried for a few days and then sown in well-draining soil. The soil must be kept constantly moist, and the seeds should be kept in a well-lit area, with partial shade. Germination can occur in 2-3 weeks.
Propagation by Division
The plant can also be propagated by division. This method involves dividing the plant into small clumps and replanting them. You should carefully dig up the plant and divide it into small pieces. Each piece must have a healthy root system. The divided sections must be replanted immediately. While replanting, ensure that the soil is well-draining, and the roots are adequately covered with soil. Water regularly until the plant is established.
Disease Management
Solidago simplex Kunth ssp. randii (Porter) Ringius var. gillmanii (Gray) Ringius is generally resistant to most plant diseases and requires only minimal maintenance and care. However, some diseases can affect the overall health of the plant and reduce its lifespan. The following are common diseases that might affect Solidago simplex Kunth ssp. randii (Porter) Ringius var. gillmanii (Gray) Ringius and ways to manage them:
Cercospora Leaf Spot
Cercospora leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes yellow or brown spots on the leaves. The spots may increase in size and merge, causing the leaves to turn yellow and eventually fall off. The disease can be prevented by maintaining good sanitation practices and ensuring proper air circulation around the plant. Infected parts should be removed and destroyed to prevent further spread of the disease.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white powdery substance to form on the leaves. The disease can be prevented by providing good air circulation to the plant and reducing humidity levels. Infected parts should be removed and destroyed to prevent further spread of the disease.
Root Rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to turn brown and mushy. The disease can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overwatering the plant. Infected parts should be removed and destroyed to prevent further spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Solidago simplex Kunth ssp. randii (Porter) Ringius var. gillmanii (Gray) Ringius is generally resistant to most pests and requires only minimal maintenance and care. However, some pests can affect the overall health of the plant and reduce its lifespan. The following are common pests that might affect Solidago simplex Kunth ssp. randii (Porter) Ringius var. gillmanii (Gray) Ringius and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can cause the leaves to curl and distort. The pests can be controlled by washing the plant with a strong jet of water or by using insecticidal soap.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause yellowing of the leaves and the formation of a fine silk webbing. The pests can be controlled by washing the plant with a strong jet of water or by using insecticidal soap.
Whiteflies
Whiteflies are small, white pests that feed on the sap of the plant and can cause wilting of the leaves. The pests can be controlled by using yellow sticky traps or by using an insecticide specifically designed for whiteflies.
