Tumble Goosefoot
chenopodium polyspermum
Also known as: ["Tumble Pigweed","Many-seeded Goosefoot"]
Overview
An annual herbaceous plant with small, greenish flowers and numerous seeds, often found in disturbed soils.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","fast growing"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus: | Chenopodium |
| Botanical Name: | Chenopodium polyspermum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in temperate regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) in cooler climates; partial shade in hot regions to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid direct sun during peak hours.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and sand; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler conditions but avoids frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without saturating the soil. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth in spring and summer, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in fall and winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to frost damage or death in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Protect from frost with a cover; move indoors in cold climates; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse tools after use.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation following ingestion of Chenopodium polyspermum. The oxalates and nitrates present can cause discomfort but are not typically life-threatening in small amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Chenopodium polyspermum can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of oxalates and nitrates. The effects are typically transient and resolve without long-term health consequences.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicChenopodium polyspermum contains oxalates and nitrates which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and metabolic disturbances when ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract and potential interference with nutrient absorption.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Chenopodium polyspermum edible?
A: Its edibility is uncertain and it is generally not recommended for consumption.
Q: How does Chenopodium polyspermum spread?
A: It spreads primarily through its numerous small seeds, which can be dispersed by wind or water.
Q: Is Chenopodium polyspermum invasive?
A: It can be considered invasive in some regions due to its rapid growth and seed production.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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