Origin
Tetragonia saligna Fenzl var. extrusa Adamson is a plant species that is native to New Zealand, Australia, and South America. It is commonly found in coastal and lowland habitats, particularly in sandy soils.
Common Names
The plant has several common names, including sea spinach, warrigal greens, botany bay spinach, and native spinach. The name sea spinach refers to the plant's resemblance in flavor and texture to spinach, while the name warrigal greens is derived from an Aboriginal term meaning wild vegetable.
Uses
The leaves of Tetragonia saligna Fenzl var. extrusa Adamson are edible and have been used for centuries as a source of food by Indigenous communities in Australia and New Zealand. The leaves can be eaten raw or cooked and have a slightly salty, tangy flavor that makes them a popular ingredient in salads, soups, and stir-fries.
In addition to its use as a food source, Tetragonia saligna Fenzl var. extrusa Adamson is also considered to have medicinal properties. The plant has been used to treat a range of ailments, including skin infections, coughs, and digestive issues.
General Appearance
Tetragonia saligna Fenzl var. extrusa Adamson is a low-growing, spreading plant that can reach a height of up to 1 meter. It has succulent leaves that are diamond-shaped and vary in size from 2 to 10 centimeters long. The leaves are a bluish-green color and are covered in small, white hairs.
The flowers of Tetragonia saligna Fenzl var. extrusa Adamson are small and inconspicuous, with female flowers appearing on the same plant as male flowers. The fruit is a small, hard, dry capsule that contains several seeds.
Overall, Tetragonia saligna Fenzl var. extrusa Adamson is an attractive plant that is well-suited to coastal gardens and makes a good ground cover. Its edible and medicinal properties also make it a valuable plant for both culinary and medicinal purposes.
Light Requirements
The plant Tetragonia saligna Fenzl var. extrusa Adamson requires full or partial sunlight to grow successfully. It cannot thrive in complete shade, as it needs enough light for photosynthesis. When grown indoors, it should be placed in a location that receives at least 4-6 hours of sunlight each day. When grown outdoors, it should be planted in a spot that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight each day.
Temperature Requirements
Tetragonia saligna Fenzl var. extrusa Adamson grows best in warm temperatures. Ideal temperatures for growing this plant range from 60-75°F (15-24°C). It can tolerate some colder temperatures, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can damage the plant. It is recommended to grow this plant indoors in colder climates or during the colder months to protect it from frost and extreme temperature fluctuations.
Soil Requirements
Tetragonia saligna Fenzl var. extrusa Adamson prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, such as compost or aged manure. The soil pH should be slightly acidic, around 6.0-6.5, to promote proper nutrient absorption. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, as it can cause root rot and other fungal diseases. It is recommended to plant this species in a raised bed to ensure proper drainage and prevent standing water.
Cultivation Methods
Tetragonia saligna Fenzl var. extrusa Adamson, commonly known as New Zealand spinach or warrigal greens, is a fast-growing annual plant that requires minimum maintenance. It is an excellent crop for garden beds and containers and adapts well to different soil conditions, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
To cultivate this plant, start by preparing the soil by removing weeds and debris and adding compost and organic matter. Sow the seeds directly into the soil in late spring or early summer or start them indoor six weeks before the last frost.
Plant the seeds 1/4 inch deep and 6 inches apart in rows that are 2 feet apart. Cover them with soil, water them gently, and keep the soil moist until the seedlings emerge.
Watering Needs
Tetragonia saligna Fenzl var. extrusa Adamson requires consistent watering to thrive. Water the plants deeply once a week, ensuring that the soil is moistened at least 6 inches deep. During hot and dry spells, increase watering frequency to every two to three days.
To avoid wilting and excessive moisture loss, water the plants early in the morning or late in the evening. Also, avoid watering the leaves, as wet foliage may lead to fungal infections.
Fertilization
Although Tetragonia saligna Fenzl var. extrusa Adamson does not require heavy fertilization, it benefits from occasional feeding to enhance growth and yield. Before planting, mix compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to provide a slow-release source of nutrients.
Once the plants start to grow, apply a balanced fertilizer every six weeks. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer, as excessive nitrogen may lead to lush foliage and reduced yield.
Pruning
Tetragonia saligna Fenzl var. extrusa Adamson does not require pruning, as it has a bushy and compact growth habit. However, you can pinch off the tips of the plants once they reach 8 inches tall to encourage branching and denser growth.
Also, remove any yellow, diseased, or damaged leaves to prevent the spread of diseases and promote healthy growth. Harvest the leaves frequently to encourage new growth and ensure a continued supply of fresh greens.
Propagation of Tetragonia saligna Fenzl var. extrusa Adamson
Tetragonia saligna Fenzl var. extrusa Adamson, also known as New Zealand spinach, is a leafy green vegetable that is native to Australia and New Zealand. It is a hardy plant that is easy to grow, and it is also well-suited to propagation via a variety of methods.
Propagation by Seeds
The easiest and most common way to propagate Tetragonia saligna is through the use of seeds. The seeds should be planted in a well-draining soil, and they should be kept moist until they germinate. Once the seedlings have appeared, they should be thinned to a spacing of around 30cm to allow for optimal growth. Seed propagation should ideally be done in spring, as this is the optimal growing season for the plant.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is also possible with Tetragonia saligna. Take a cutting from a mature plant just below a leaf node, approximately 8cm long, with the lower leaves stripped off. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone, and plant it in a potting mix or similar well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist, and cover the cutting with a clear plastic bag to help maintain humidity. Roots should begin to develop after around 2-3 weeks, at which point the cutting can be removed from its plastic covering and transplanted to a larger pot or, after hardening off, planted in a suitable location.
Propagation by Division
Tetragonia saligna can also be propagated through division. This involves taking a mature plant and dividing it into several smaller plants, each of which can then be replanted. To divide the plant, carefully dig it up from the soil and separate the root ball into two or more sections, ensuring that each section has a portion of the plant's stem and leaves attached. Replant each section in a well-draining soil, and water thoroughly. Propagation by division should ideally be done in spring or early summer, as this is when the plant is most actively growing.
Propagation of Tetragonia saligna can be done by seed, cutting, or division. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, and different gardeners may prefer one method over another depending on their individual circumstances. Regardless of the method chosen, however, Tetragonia saligna is an easy plant to propagate and grow, making it popular with gardeners of all skill levels.
Disease and Pest Management for Tetragonia Saligna Fenzl Var. Extrusa Adamson
Tetragonia saligna Fenzl var. extrusa Adamson, commonly known as New Zealand spinach, is a hardy, low-growing plant that is often used as a leafy green vegetable. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can impact its growth and yield. To ensure a healthy crop, it is essential to implement disease and pest management practices.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect New Zealand spinach is downy mildew, which is caused by the fungus Peronospora farinosa. Symptoms of downy mildew include yellowing, curling, and wilting of leaves. To prevent the spread of the disease, it is important to maintain good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Treat affected plants with a copper fungicide or neem oil.
Another disease that can affect New Zealand spinach is root rot, which is caused by the fungus Phytophthora cinnamomi. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and wilting. To prevent root rot, avoid overwatering and ensure proper drainage. Treat infected plants with a soil drench of potassium phosphite.
Common Pests
New Zealand spinach is also vulnerable to several pests, including aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. These pests can suck the sap from leaves, causing them to wilt and turn yellow. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids and whiteflies. For spider mites, spray plants with water to wash off the pests or use an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Another pest that can damage New Zealand spinach is the cutworm, which cuts the stem of the plant at ground level. To prevent cutworms, use a collar made of cardboard or aluminum foil around the base of the plant or apply a biological control such as Bacillus thuringiensis.
Conclusion
In conclusion, New Zealand spinach can be susceptible to various diseases and pests that can impact its growth and yield. It is essential to implement disease and pest management practices to ensure a healthy crop. Proper air circulation, good watering practices, and the use of insecticides or fungicides can help prevent and control diseases and pests in New Zealand spinach.
