Description of Vaccinium oxycoccos L. var. intermedium Gray
Vaccinium oxycoccos L. var. intermedium Gray, commonly known as small cranberry, is a perennial plant species belonging to the Ericaceae family. This plant is native to the northern regions of North America and Europe, including Canada, Alaska, and Siberia, where it is found in bogs, swamps, and other wetland habitats.
General Appearance
The small cranberry plant typically grows up to 6-8 inches tall and spreads up to 1-2 feet in width. It has small, evergreen leaves that are dark green in color, with a leathery texture and a slightly curled shape at the edges. The plant produces pink to red flowers that bloom in the summer and eventually turn into small red berries that ripen in the fall.
Common Names
Vaccinium oxycoccos L. var. intermedium Gray is commonly known as small cranberry, bog cranberry, swamp cranberry, and northern cranberry.
Uses
The small cranberry plant has been traditionally used by Native American and European settlers for medicinal purposes, to treat ailments such as urinary tract infections, diarrhea, and fever. The plant's leaves and berries are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and other nutrients, making them a popular ingredient in natural health products and herbal teas. The berries are also used in cooking and can be made into jams, jellies, and sauces.
Light Requirements
Vaccinium oxycoccos L. var. intermedium Gray requires full sunlight to grow and develop properly. Partial shade may be tolerated but it may affect the growth and yield of the plant. Therefore, it is recommended to grow this plant in an open area with abundant sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers cool and moist environments. It grows well in cooler regions and can tolerate moderate frost. However, it is not suitable to grow in areas with extremely low temperatures. The optimal temperature for growth and reproduction ranges from 10-20°C.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows best in acidic soil but can tolerate a range of soil types. It prefers moist but well-drained soil with a pH range of 4.5-5.5. The ideal soil for growth is organic-rich, peaty, and sandy. It also requires adequate nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium for proper growth and fruit development.
Cultivation Methods
The Vaccinium oxycoccos L. var. intermedium Gray, also known as Large cranberry, requires well-drained soil, moist conditions, and partial sunlight for cultivation. The ideal pH range for growing the plant is between 4 to 5.5, and it can thrive in boggy or marshy areas. The plant can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, or division of the rhizomes.
Watering Needs
Large cranberry plants require consistent moisture to grow well. During the growing season, the plants should receive at least an inch of water every week, either from rainfall or irrigation. The soil should remain damp, but not waterlogged. In winter, the plant should be kept dormant, and watering should be reduced, allowing the soil to become slightly dry between watering sessions.
Fertilization
The Vaccinium oxycoccos L. var. intermedium Gray does not need much fertilizer, and excessive fertilization can do more harm than good. However, applying a balanced slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season can help promote healthy growth. Use a fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10, following the recommended dosage on the label.
Pruning
Pruning the Large cranberry plant can help control its size, shape, and promote fruiting. In the first year, the plant should not be pruned, allowing it to grow freely. Beginning in the second year, prune the plant in late winter or early spring, removing weak, spindly, or dead branches. Leave a few strong branches for fruiting. During the growing season, pinch off the tips of the new shoots to encourage branching and bushiness of the plant.
Propagating Vaccinium oxycoccos L. var. intermedium Gray
Vaccinium oxycoccos L. var. intermedium Gray, commonly known as Small Bog Cranberry, is a perennial evergreen shrub that grows in wetland areas. Propagation is an important process to increase the number of plants for cultivation and conservation.
Seed Propagation
Small Bog Cranberry can be propagated through seeds. Seeds can be collected from ripe fruits from September to October. The seeds require cold stratification for one to two months at 3-5°C to break the dormancy. The sowing of the seeds can be done in seedbeds or containers filled with a well-drained compost soil mix. The seeds should be kept moist and placed in a bright location with temperatures between 15-20°C. Germination usually occurs in about 30-45 days.
Vegetative Propagation
Small Bog Cranberry can also be propagated vegetatively through cuttings. Semi-hardwood cuttings are collected from the mother plant during the summer months. The cuttings should be around 5-10 cm in length and should be treated with a rooting hormone. The cuttings should be planted in a well-drained compost soil mix and placed in a humid environment with temperatures between 20-25°C. Rooting usually occurs in 4-6 weeks.
Division Propagation
Small Bog Cranberry can also be propagated through division. This method involves separating the mother plant into smaller segments with viable roots and shoots. The division should be done during the dormant period in early spring. The divided segments should be planted in a well-drained compost soil mix and placed in a humid environment with temperatures between 20-25°C. The roots should be kept moist, and new growth usually occurs after 3-4 weeks.
Disease Management
Vaccinium oxycoccos L. var. intermedium Gray, commonly known as small cranberry, is susceptible to several diseases. Here are some of the common diseases that might affect the plant:
- Phytophthora root rot: This fungal disease can cause root rot, wilt, and yellowing of leaves. To manage the disease, it is crucial to plant the cranberry in well-drained soils and avoid overwatering.
- Fruit rot: Fruit rot is caused by a few different types of fungi, such as Colletotrichum and Diplodia. Good management practices include keeping the bog floor dry and maintaining good air circulation within the canopy to reduce humidity.
- Angular leaf spot: This bacterial disease causes angular lesions on the leaves, which can turn necrotic and cause leaf drop. It is essential to maintain proper irrigation and avoid overhead watering to prevent the disease's spread.
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot is caused by the fungal pathogen Mycosphaerella oxycocci. The disease can cause defoliation, leading to reduced yield and fruit quality. It is crucial to remove infected leaves and practice good sanitation to prevent the disease's spread.
It is important to note that prevention is the most effective form of disease management. Proper cultural practices, such as careful site selection, irrigation management, and sanitation practices, can significantly reduce the incidence and severity of disease. If the disease is detected, swift management strategies should be put in place to prevent further damage.
Pest Management
Small cranberry can be susceptible to a few pests. Here are some common pests that might affect the plant, along with ways to manage them:
- Sparganothis fruitworm: This caterpillar causes damage to the fruit by boring into it. To manage infestation, using mating disruption technology, such as pheromone traps, can be helpful.
- Cranberry fruitworm: The cranberry fruitworm is another type of caterpillar that attacks the fruit by boring into it. A standard management strategy for this pest is to apply insecticides during the larvae's active period.
- Cranberry weevil: This weevil attacks the buds and flowers of the plant, causing damage and a reduction in yield. One management strategy is to apply insecticides during the period of bud set and subsequent development of fruit.
- Cranberry rootworm: This pest's larvae feed on the roots, causing significant damage and death to the plant. Management strategies include controlling adult weevils and reducing the pest population by cultivating the land and removing plant debris.
It is important to monitor pest activity regularly to detect infestations early. Cultural practices such as cultivation, pruning, and sanitation practices can also play a significant role in preventing pest problems. When necessary, using chemical control methods, such as insecticides and pesticides, can limit pest damage and protect the plant's yield.
