Plant Description:
Sonchus goraeensis Lam. is a flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is a herbaceous annual or biennial plant that can grow up to 1.5 meters in height. The stem of the plant is erect, hollow, and branched.
Origin:
Sonchus goraeensis Lam. is native to the Canary Islands, particularly in the island of La Gomera.
Common names:
Some common names of Sonchus goraeensis Lam. are 'Gomphrenoides goraeensis', 'La Gomera sowthistle', 'Perennial sowthistle', and 'Gomera Sonchus'.
Uses:
The leaves of Sonchus goraeensis Lam. are edible and are used in salads, soups, and as a vegetable in some cuisines. The plant also has medicinal properties and has been traditionally used for treating coughs, digestive problems, and as a diuretic. The latex from the plant's stem has also been used as a natural remedy for warts.
General Appearance:
The leaves of Sonchus goraeensis Lam. are dark green, lobed, and slightly hairy with spiny margins. The flowers of the plant are yellow and appear in clusters at the end of the stems. The fruit of the plant is an achene that has a pappus attached to it, which aids in dispersing the seeds in the wind.
Growth Conditions for Sonchus goraeensis Lam.
Sonchus goraeensis Lam. is a perennial plant that prefers a warm and sunny location with well-drained soil and moderate humidity.
Light Requirements
Sonchus goraeensis Lam. requires plenty of sunlight to grow and thrive. It is recommended to provide at least six hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires warm temperatures ranging from 20-25°C to thrive. They can withstand a wide range of temperatures but prefer to live in warmer conditions.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained, fertile soil. It can grow in various types of soils but prefers a soil pH of 6 to 7.5. Regular mulching with organic matter can help improve soil quality and water retention.
The roots of the plant should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot and damage the plant.
Providing suitable conditions and regular care will ensure healthy growth and an abundance of flowers.
Cultivation methods
Sonchus goraeensis Lam., commonly known as the Canary Island Sowthistle, is a herbaceous perennial plant that can be cultivated from seeds or cuttings. It grows well in a variety of soils with good drainage, but it prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The seeds should be sown in spring or autumn and covered lightly with soil. The plant requires full sunlight exposure to grow and develop properly.
Watering needs
The Canary Island Sowthistle requires moderate watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not overly wet, as this can lead to rotting of the roots. Avoid overwatering as this can also result in nutrient loss. During dry spells, the plant may need to be watered more frequently to maintain moisture. You should check the soil moisture level regularly and water accordingly.
Fertilization
The Canary Island Sowthistle does not require significant amounts of fertilizer. However, it may benefit from the addition of organic matter such as compost to the soil, particularly during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer may also be used during the growing season to promote foliage growth and flowering. Be careful not to overfertilize, as this can result in excessively rapid growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for the Canary Island Sowthistle, as it has a naturally bushy habit. However, it may benefit from deadheading of spent flowers to encourage the development of new blooms. Removing the spent flowers also helps to maintain a neat appearance and prevents the plant from reseeding. If the plant becomes too large, it can be cut back in early spring to encourage new growth.
Propagation of Sonchus goraeensis Lam.
Sonchus goraeensis Lam., commonly known as the Goraean sowthistle, is a herbaceous plant that propagates through seeds. The plant produces a considerable amount of seeds, which can be used for propagation.
Seed Collection
The seeds of Sonchus goraeensis Lam. can be collected in late summer or early fall when the seeds have matured and turned brown. It is important to collect the seeds from healthy and mature plants to ensure healthy plant growth.
Seed Treatment
Before sowing the seeds, they must be subjected to a pre-germination treatment. This treatment involves soaking the seeds in warm water for 24 hours to soften the seed coat and aid in germination. The seeds can also be scarified by rubbing them against sandpaper or soaking them in diluted sulfuric acid for a short time to break the seed coat.
Sowing Seeds
After treating the seeds, they can be sown in a well-draining potting mix. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1-2 cm and covered with a thin layer of soil. The potting mix should be kept moist but not waterlogged to facilitate germination.
Care and Maintenance
Once the seeds have germinated, the seedlings can be transplanted into individual containers, or they can be transplanted outside when the weather permits. The plants require full sun and regular watering to survive. They also benefit from regular fertilization, especially during the growing season.
Overall, Sonchus goraeensis Lam. is a relatively easy plant to propagate from seed, making it an accessible option for gardeners and farmers alike. With proper care and maintenance, the plant can grow and thrive, producing an abundance of seeds for future propagation.
Disease and Pest Management for Sonchus goraeensis Lam.
Sonchus goraeensis Lam., also known as the Great Canary Island Sow-thistle, belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is a species of perennial, herbaceous plants found on rocky slopes and cliffs at altitudes between 200 and 2,000 m. Like all other plants, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and production. Below are some common diseases and pests that might affect Sonchus goraeensis Lam., along with ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
1. Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects many plants, including Sonchus goraeensis Lam. It creates a white, powdery covering on the leaves, which can stunt plant growth and reduce yield. To manage powdery mildew, keep plants well-spaced and remove any infected plant debris. Apply fungicides as directed by a certified specialist.
2. Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that can affect Sonchus goraeensis Lam. leaves and stems. It creates yellow or brown spots on leaves and causes them to fall off. To manage rust, remove infected plant debris and apply fungicides as directed by a certified specialist.
3. Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of plants, including Sonchus goraeensis Lam. It infects roots with fungi that decompose the root tissue, causing the plant to wilt and eventually die. To manage root rot, improve drainage and avoid overwatering. Remove infected plants and do not plant new ones in the same area for at least two years.
Common Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are tiny, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems of plants, including Sonchus goraeensis Lam. They can cause stunted growth, leaf curling, and yellowing. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, or release natural predators like ladybugs.
2. Spider mites: Spider mites are very small, eight-legged arachnids that suck the sap from plant leaves. They feed on the underside of leaves, causing yellow or brown spots. To manage spider mites, rinse plants with water or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
3. Snails and slugs: Snails and slugs are common pests that feed on the young leaves and stems of Sonchus goraeensis Lam. To manage snails and slugs, remove plant debris, keep mulch away from stems, and use bait or traps.
By implementing these measures, you can minimize the impact of diseases and pests affecting Sonchus goraeensis Lam., and ensure healthy growth and maximum yield.
