Sea Medick
medicago marina
Also known as: ["Beach Medick","Coastal Medick"]
Overview
A coastal legume species adapted to saline environments, characterized by trifoliate leaves and yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Medicago |
| Botanical Name: | Medicago marina |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: coastal gardens or rockeries, protected from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity drops below 40%
- Drainage: Fast-draining; susceptible to root rot in waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring; light trimming can be done throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for shape or health.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates coastal conditions with salt spray and sandy soils.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to full sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; suitable for coastal gardens with direct exposure.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Use shade cloth during extreme heat; rotate plant for even light exposure; avoid placing near reflective surfaces that intensify sunlight.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 14–21 days in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Use sandy soil mix; avoid heavy clay; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers mild temperatures (15–25°C); tolerates coastal winds and moderate salinity; sensitive to prolonged frost.
Monitor temperature changes; protect from frost; adjust watering in heatwaves.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer
Fertilize lightly; avoid over-fertilization; apply before new growth emerges.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; cuttings root readily in warm conditions.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are mild and growth is active.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; protect from strong winds.
Medium
Well-draining mix of sand and peat; can also root in pure sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pots within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use fresh cuttings; maintain humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; trim stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or damaged stems as needed.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune in early spring; remove dead growth; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for nutrient replenishment.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if needed; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture distribution without saturating the soil; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add sand or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting or yellowing leaves in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress; stunted growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback; prolonged frost can be lethal.
Solution: Provide frost protection with mulch or row covers; plant in sheltered locations; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, dehydration, and reduced flowering; may go dormant in extreme heat.
Solution: Water deeply during heatwaves; provide afternoon shade if possible; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid winter feeding; follow package instructions.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; reduce or stop fertilizing in late autumn and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicMedicago marina is not considered toxic to cats. The seeds are not known to cause significant adverse effects when ingested in typical amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicMedicago marina is not considered toxic to dogs. The seeds are not known to cause significant adverse effects when ingested in typical amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicMedicago marina is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of seeds in large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to their high fiber content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Medicago marina suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it is adapted to saline and sandy soils typical of coastal environments.
Q: Does Medicago marina attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its yellow flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Q: How should Medicago marina be watered?
A: It is drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional watering during prolonged dry periods.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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