Origin
Tillaea aquatica L. var. drummondii sensu (Torr. & Gray) Jepson p.p. is a plant species that originated from North America.
Common Names
The plant is known by several common names such as water-spangle, yellow water-spangle, water carpet, and water-moss.
Uses
Tillaea aquatica L. var. drummondii sensu (Torr. & Gray) Jepson p.p. is often used in aquariums and ponds for its ornamental value. It can help create a natural and aesthetically pleasing aquatic environment. Additionally, the plant is used to help filter water and improve aquatic ecosystems. Some species of fish and aquatic animals also use Tillaea aquatica L. var. drummondii as a natural source of food.
General Appearance
Tillaea aquatica L. var. drummondii sensu (Torr. & Gray) Jepson p.p. is a small and delicate aquatic plant that grows up to 4 inches in length. It has a prostrate and spreading habit with thin, translucent stems that branch out into tiny, umbrella-shaped leaves. The leaves are usually around 1-2mm wide and 3-5mm long, and are bright green in color with a yellowish hue at the center. The plant produces small, pale yellow flowers that bloom throughout the year. It is considered a fast-growing plant that can quickly fill up an aquarium or pond if not properly managed.
Growth Conditions for Tillaea Aquatica L. Var. Drummondii Sensu (Torr. & Gray) Jepson P.P.
Light: Tillaea aquatica L. var. drummondii sensu (Torr. & Gray) Jepson p.p. requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It can grow well in both direct and indirect sunlight but cannot tolerate complete shade. Therefore, it is recommended to plant it in an area that receives at least 4-5 hours of direct sunlight.
Temperature: Tillaea aquatica L. var. drummondii sensu (Torr. & Gray) Jepson p.p. is adaptable to a wide range of temperatures, but it thrives in temperatures between 10-30°C. It can withstand low temperatures up to -20°C but cannot tolerate frost. Therefore, it is essential to protect the plant from frost by covering it with mulch or cloth.
Soil Requirements: Tillaea aquatica L. var. drummondii sensu (Torr. & Gray) Jepson p.p. prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It can grow in a range of soil types, such as sandy, loamy or clay soils, but does not withstand waterlogged soils. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the soil is well-drained to avoid waterlogged conditions that can lead to the death of the plant.
Water: Tillaea aquatica L. var. drummondii sensu (Torr. & Gray) Jepson p.p. requires moderate watering. It can withstand drought, but it is important to ensure that the soil does not dry out completely. Overwatering can also lead to root rot, so it is recommended to water the plant only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilizer: Tillaea aquatica L. var. drummondii sensu (Torr. & Gray) Jepson p.p. does not require frequent fertilization. However, a light application of balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season can help to promote growth and flowering. It is important to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package to avoid over-fertilization, which can harm the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Tillaea aquatica L. var. drummondii sensu (Torr. & Gray) Jepson p.p., also known as water chickweed, is a semi-aquatic plant that can be grown in either a pot or a pond. If growing in a pot, use a potting mix that is rich in organic matter. If growing in a pond, plant it in a container with soil that is composed of equal parts of sand, rich loam, and clay.Watering Needs
Water chickweed needs a lot of water to thrive. When grown in a pot, the soil should be kept moist at all times, but not waterlogged. If grown in a pond, the water level should be kept at a depth of 3-6 inches above the soil. Make sure to water daily during hot weather.Fertilization
Fertilization should be done every four to six weeks during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. If grown in a pond, use a slow-release fertilizer. If grown in a pot, dilute the fertilizer and apply it to the soil.Pruning
Water chickweed doesn't require pruning, but it's recommended to remove yellowed or damaged leaves to prevent disease. If grown in a pot, pinch off the ends of the stems to encourage bushy growth. If grown in a pond, trim overgrown stems to maintain a neat appearance.Propagation of Tillaea aquatica L. var. drummondii sensu (Torr. & Gray) Jepson p.p.
Tillaea aquatica L. var. drummondii sensu (Torr. & Gray) Jepson p.p. can be propagated through both sexual and asexual reproduction methods.
Sexual Reproduction
The plant can reproduce sexually through seed production. After flowering in the summer or early fall, the plant produces capsules that contain several seeds. These capsules can be harvested and sown directly in soil. The seeds require a moist environment to germinate, and the soil should be kept moist until the seedlings are established.
Asexual Reproduction
Tillaea aquatica L. var. drummondii sensu (Torr. & Gray) Jepson p.p. can also be propagated through vegetative reproduction methods.
Division
The plant can be divided into smaller sections and replanted in the desired location. This method requires careful handling of the plant to prevent damage to the roots. The divided sections should be planted in pre-moistened soil and watered thoroughly.
Cuttings
Cuttings can also be taken from the stem of the plant. Using a sharp knife, cut a section of the stem and remove the lower leaves. The cutting should be approximately 4-6 inches long. Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone and plant it in a container with pre-moistened soil. Cover the container with a plastic bag to create a humid environment and place it in a bright, indirect light. Once roots have formed, the cutting can be transplanted into the desired location.
Disease Management
Tillaea aquatica var. drummondii is generally a healthy plant variety, but it is still susceptible to some diseases. These are the common diseases that can affect the plant:
- Fungal Leaf Spots: These are brown or black spots that can affect the foliage of the plant. To manage this disease, affected plant parts should be removed and destroyed. Also, ensure proper plant sanitation practices, such as using sterilized pruning tools and avoiding overhead watering.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by fungi that thrive on wet soil conditions. To prevent root rot, ensure proper irrigation practices, such as not overwatering the plant, and maintaining well-draining soil conditions.
- Bacterial Blight: This disease is characterized by yellow to brown spots on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage bacterial blight, it is essential to practice proper sanitation and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can also be helpful in controlling this disease.
Pest Management
Tillaea aquatica var. drummondii is generally not highly prone to pest infestations but can still be affected by a few pests. Here are some common pests that can affect this plant:
- Spider Mites: These are small arachnids that can colonize the underside of the leaves, causing yellowing and browning. To manage spider mites, regular inspection of the plant should be carried out. Infected plant parts should be removed and destroyed, and the plant should be sprayed with insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils.
- Aphids: Aphids are small insects that can cluster on the leaves and stems of the plant, sucking the sap out of the plant. To manage these pests, spray the plant with soapy water or use insecticidal soap. Ladybugs and lacewings can also be used to control aphids.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies that can feed on the leaves of the plant. To manage caterpillars, handpick them, or use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) and spinosad-based insecticides.
