Overview of Wedelia instar S.Moore
Wedelia instar S. Moore, also known as creeping oxeye and Sphagneticola trilobata, is a species of flowering plant from the Asteraceae family that is native to South America and Central America. This herbaceous perennial plant is now found in many tropical and subtropical regions of the world.
General Appearance of Wedelia instar S.Moore
Wedelia instar S.Moore is a low-growing, creeping plant that can reach up to 30cm in height. Its leaves are simple, lobed, and are arranged oppositely along the stem. The flowers are bright yellow in color and resemble daisies, with central disks and ray-like petals surrounding them. The fruits are small and dry, with a fluffy, white pappus that aids in seed dispersal.
Common names of Wedelia instar S.Moore
Wedelia instar S.Moore is known by many common names, including creeping oxeye, trailing daisy, Bay Biscayne creeping-oxeye, Singapore daisy, and Cape York wedelia.
Uses of Wedelia instar S.Moore
Although it is considered an invasive species in many parts of the world, Wedelia instar S.Moore has numerous traditional and medicinal uses. Its leaves and flowers are used in some traditional medicines to treat skin conditions, fever, and inflammation. Additionally, some people use the plant to make teas or infusions that are believed to help with respiratory conditions, gastrointestinal issues, and as a diuretic.
Wedelia instar S.Moore is also utilized in some traditional Chinese medicines to treat gynecological disorders. Furthermore, the plant is grown as an ornamental plant owing to its bright and yellow flowers that add beauty to gardens and landscapes.
Light Requirements
Wedelia instar S.Moore requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. Therefore, it is recommended to plant this species in an area with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. If planting indoors, it is essential to place the plant near windows that receive abundant sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
This species thrives in warm temperatures, between 20°C to 29°C. It is important to note that Wedelia instar S.Moore is not frost-tolerant and cannot survive in areas where temperatures fall below 10°C. Therefore, it is crucial to protect the plant from cold or frost by planting it in an appropriate location or moving it indoors during winter.
Soil Requirements
Wedelia instar S.Moore requires well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH range (pH 6.0-7.0). The soil should be enriched with organic matter and have good moisture retention capacity. It is recommended to incorporate compost or other organic materials into the soil to provide the plant with the necessary nutrients.
This species can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils, as long as it is well-draining. However, it is essential to avoid waterlogging, as it can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Cultivation of Wedelia instar S.Moore
Wedelia instar S.Moore, commonly known as creeping daisy or trailing wedelia, is a low-growing evergreen ground cover plant that is native to South America and the Caribbean. It thrives in warm climates and can be grown both indoors and outdoors. Here are some tips for cultivating this beautiful plant:
Watering Needs
When it comes to watering Wedelia instar S.Moore, it is essential to maintain a balance. Over-watering can lead to root rot, while under-watering can cause wilting and stunted growth. The plant needs moderate watering, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water the plant every five to seven days or when the top inch of soil is dry. In winter, reduce watering to once every ten days as the plant becomes semi-dormant.
Fertilization
To keep Wedelia instar S.Moore healthy and growing, it needs to be fertilized regularly. Fertilize the plant twice a year, once during the growing season in spring and again in the fall. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10:10:10 or 20:20:20. Apply the fertilizer following the manufacturer's instructions, and avoid over-fertilizing, which can damage the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential aspect of caring for Wedelia instar S.Moore. The plant grows quite fast and can become invasive if not pruned regularly. Prune the plant after it has finished flowering or during early spring. Use pruning shears for the task, and cut back any overgrown or dead stems to promote new growth. Be sure to also trim any stems that are growing beyond the desired area of the plant. Regular pruning helps to maintain the plant's health and appearance.
Propagation of Wedelia instar S.Moore
Wedelia instar S.Moore, also known as Sphagneticola trilobata, is a perennial plant that is native to South America. It is commonly used as a ground cover or border in gardens and landscaping. Here are the methods for propagating Wedelia instar S.Moore:
Propagation by seeds
Wedelia instar S.Moore can be propagated by seeds, which are easily sown in the spring. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and covered with a thin layer of soil. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. The seeds will germinate within 7-14 days.
Propagation by stem cuttings
Propagation by stem cuttings is also an effective way to propagate Wedelia instar S.Moore. Take 4-6 inch cuttings from an established plant in the spring or summer. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mixture and keep the soil moist. The cuttings will root within a few weeks.
Propagation by division
Wedelia instar S.Moore can also be propagated by dividing an established plant. This is best done in the spring or early fall. Gently dig up the plant and separate the roots into several sections, making sure each section has several stems and a good root system. Replant the sections in a well-draining soil mix and keep the soil moist until the plants establish.
Disease and Pest Management for Wedelia instar
Wedelia instar, also known as creeping oxeye, is a hardy and low-maintenance plant. However, it is not immune to diseases and pests.
Common diseases
The most common diseases that affect Wedelia instar include:
- Fungal leaf spot: This disease is caused by fungi and results in spots on the leaves. It can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and providing good air circulation. Infected leaves should be removed and destroyed.
- Crown rot: This disease is caused by fungi and results in the rotting of the plant's crown. It can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering, improving soil drainage, and using disease-free soil. Infected plants should be removed and destroyed.
- Powdery mildew: This disease is caused by fungi and results in a white powdery coating on the leaves. It can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overcrowding. Infected leaves should be removed and destroyed.
Common pests
The most common pests that affect Wedelia instar include:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests suck the sap from the leaves and can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves. They can be prevented by regular watering and misting the leaves to create a humid environment. Infested leaves can be washed with water or treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Mealybugs: These pests feed on the sap of the plant and excrete a sticky substance that attracts ants. They can be prevented by inspecting new plants before bringing them in and removing any visible mealybugs. Infested plants can be washed with water or treated with alcohol or insecticidal soap.
- Aphids: These pests suck sap from the leaves and can cause distortion and stunting of the plant. They can be prevented by removing weeds and providing good air circulation. Infested leaves can be washed with water or treated with insecticidal soap.
It is important to regularly inspect Wedelia instar for diseases and pests. Early detection and management are key to keeping the plant healthy. Additionally, using organic and natural pest management methods is always preferable to chemical treatments.
