Description of Wedelia Reticulata DC.
Wedelia reticulata DC. is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is native to different parts of Asia, including Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Malaysia, and Thailand. This herbaceous perennial plant is known by different common names such as Orange-needle Wedelia, creeping-daisy, and glandular wedelia. It is also known in Ayurvedic medicine as Bhringaraj.
General Appearance
The plant Wedelia reticulata DC. is a prostrate and creeping plant, which means it grows close to the ground. The stems are thin and green with internodes of 6-10 cm between the leaves. The leaves are opposite, ovate to elliptic in shape, and measure 4-7 cm in length and 2-4 cm in width. The leaves of the plant are covered with hair, giving them a velvety texture, and are shiny green on the upper surface. The flowers of the plant are small, yellow-orange, and daisy-like, measuring approximately 3 cm in diameter.
Uses
Wedelia reticulata DC. is a plant with many medicinal properties, and it has been used in traditional medicine for many years. In Ayurvedic medicine, the plant is used to treat various health issues such as fever, bronchitis, asthma, liver disorders, and skin diseases. The leaves of the plant are rich in alkaloids, flavonoids, and essential oils that are useful in the treatment of these ailments. In some parts of Asia, the plant is used to treat snakebites and scorpion stings.
The plant is also used in horticulture as an ornamental plant due to its attractive bright yellow flowers and velvety leaves. The plant is also useful in controlling soil erosion and can be used as a ground cover. Wedelia reticulata DC. requires little maintenance and can spread quickly, making it an ideal choice for landscaping projects.
In conclusion, Wedelia Reticulata DC. is a versatile plant used in traditional medicine and horticulture.
Growth Conditions of Wedelia reticulata DC.
Light: Wedelia reticulata DC. thrives in bright sunlight. It requires direct sunlight for at least six hours every day. The plant cannot grow in shady conditions.
Temperature: The ideal temperature for Wedelia reticulata DC. growth is between 16°C and 32°C. The plant requires a moderate temperature and is intolerant to extreme cold or hot temperature. It grows well in tropical and subtropical regions.
Soil: Wedelia reticulata DC. grows well in well-draining, fertile soil. The soil should be loamy and rich in organic matter. The pH level of the soil should be between 5.5 and 7.5. The plant can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil. The soil must not be waterlogged, as it can lead to root rot.
Water: Wedelia reticulata DC. requires moderate watering. The plant should be watered when the topsoil is dry to touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot and fungal diseases.
Fertilizer: Wedelia reticulata DC. benefits from regular fertilization. The plant should be fed with a balanced fertilizer every month during its growing season. Nitrogen-rich fertilizers must be avoided, as they can lead to excessive leaf growth and stunted flower growth.
Propagation: Wedelia reticulata DC. can be propagated through stem cuttings. The stem cuttings should be taken during spring or early summer and should be planted in well-draining soil. The plant can also be propagated through seeds.
Pruning: Wedelia reticulata DC. requires regular pruning to maintain its shape and size. The plant should be pruned during the winter to encourage new growth. The dead, diseased, and damaged branches should be removed.
Cultivation Methods
Wedelia reticulata DC. is a tropical plant that thrives best in warm regions with high humidity. The plant grows well in sandy or clayey soil with excellent drainage. Therefore, it is essential to prepare the ground by removing any weeds and rocks that can hinder drainage before planting.
The plant thrives best in a spot that receives ample sunlight throughout the day. The partially shaded location can also be useful, especially in hot regions, where intense sun exposure can cause the plant to wilt.
Wedelia reticulata DC. is propagated through seeds or cuttings. Seeds should first be soaked in water for 24 hours before planting to improve their germination rate. Cuttings, on the other hand, should be taken in spring or summer and rooted in a well-draining soil mix.
Watering Needs
Wedelia reticulata DC. requires regular watering, especially during the hot, dry season. However, the plant is susceptible to root rot and fungal infections, so it is necessary to ensure that the soil dries out a bit before watering again. As a rule of thumb, it is best to water the plant once per week, but this can vary, depending on the environment and weather conditions.
Fertilization
Wedelia reticulata DC. is relatively low maintenance and can do without fertilizer if planted in nutrient-rich soil. However, if the plant is grown in poor soil, it may require occasional fertilization to support its growth and development. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10. Apply the fertilizer at the base of the plant and water thoroughly.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to keep the plant under control and maintain a compact shape. Wedelia reticulata DC. responds well to pruning and can be trimmed to any desired height or shape. It is best to prune the plant in early spring or after flowering to encourage new growth. Make clean cuts using sharp pruning shears, and remove any dead or diseased stems to promote plant health.
Propagation of Wedelia reticulata DC.
Wedelia reticulata DC. can be propagated in various ways, including:
1. Seed propagation
The seeds of Wedelia reticulata DC. can be collected when the flowers fade and dry up. The collected seeds should be cleaned and treated with a fungicide to prevent fungal attacks. The seeds can be sown in a pot or a seedbed filled with well-draining soil mixed with sand at a depth of 1-2 cm. The pot or seedbed should be kept moist and warm, and the seeds should germinate within 1-2 weeks.
2. Stem cutting propagation
Wedelia reticulata DC. can also be propagated using stem cuttings. The stem cuttings should be taken from the parent plant during the active growth stage and should be around 10-15 cm long and have 2-3 nodes. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in a rooting hormone powder to improve rooting. The cuttings should be planted in a well-draining potting mix and kept in a warm and moist place. After a few weeks, roots will develop, and the cuttings can be transplanted to a more permanent location.
3. Division propagation
Wedelia reticulata DC. can also be propagated using division. The parent plant should be dug up, and the root ball should be carefully divided into several sections, each with some stems and roots. Each section should be planted in a well-drained potting mix and kept moist and warm until the plant establishes itself.
Regardless of the propagation method used, Wedelia reticulata DC. needs consistent moisture and warm temperatures to germinate or root. The plant can be transplanted to its permanent location once it has established itself.
Disease and Pest Management for Wedelia Reticulata DC.
Wedelia reticulata DC. is a flowering plant native to South America, often grown as an ornamental in tropical and subtropical regions. As with any plant, there are several diseases and pests that may affect its growth and overall health. Managing such diseases and pests is essential to ensure the plant's survival and promote its growth and reproduction.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases affecting Wedelia reticulata DC. is root rot caused by soil-borne fungi, such as Fusarium solani and Rhizoctonia solani. This disease can be identified by wilting, yellowing, or browning of the leaves, and root discoloration. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering, and ensure proper drainage in the soil. Application of fungicides such as Trichoderma spp. or Bacillus subtilis to the soil can also control the spread of root rot.
Another common disease associated with Wedelia reticulata DC. is powdery mildew caused by the fungus Erysiphe cichoracearum. This disease presents as a powdery, white coating on the leaves and stems, eventually leading to their deformation and defoliation. To manage powdery mildew, avoid overcrowding of the plants to improve air circulation and reduce humidity. Application of fungicides such as sulfur, potassium bicarbonate, or neem oil can control the spread of powdery mildew.
Common Pests
Wedelia reticulata DC. is also susceptible to damage by several pests, including mites, aphids, and whiteflies. Mites can cause leaf bronzing, discoloration, and deformities. To manage these pests, regularly check the plants for infestations and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the spread of the pests.
Aphids and whiteflies can cause wilting, yellowing, and stunting of the plant. To manage these pests, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, or introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings to control the spread of aphids and whiteflies.
Conclusion
Managing diseases and pests in Wedelia reticulata DC. is crucial to ensure healthy growth and promote the plant's longevity. By practicing good cultural practices, such as regular watering, proper drainage, and sufficient nutrients, and controlling the spread of diseases and pests through natural and chemical methods, the plant can thrive and add beauty to any landscape or garden.
