Kale
lepidium coronopus
Also known as: ["Cress","Watercress","Scurvygrass"]
Overview
A leafy green plant with a peppery flavor, often used in salads and as a garnish.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","culinary herb","aesthetic foliage","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Lepidium |
| Botanical Name: | Lepidium coronopus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter. A cactus or succulent mix amended with compost works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 4–6 weeks during the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, focusing on shaping and removing damaged foliage.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours per day. Can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to prevent scorching. Place in a spot with filtered light or dappled shade, especially during peak summer hours. Indoors, place near an east or west-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid intense midday sun; provide shade during summer; rotate plant for even light exposure.
Watering
every 5–7 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Ensure good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for fertility.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally between 50–70°F (10–21°C). Tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat.
Keep away from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from extreme heat or cold.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Use a balanced fertilizer; dilute to half strength; fertilize only during active growth.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed propagation. Stem cuttings root easily in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in water or soil.
- Keep moist and warm.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light. Maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water for cuttings. A mix of peat and perlite works well.
Hormone
Not necessary but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools; keep cuttings humid; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or snip with clean scissors to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove dead or yellowing leaves to improve air circulation.
Tools
Sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or yellowing leaves; shape the plant lightly; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Young plants may need repotting more frequently.
Checklist
Choose a slightly larger pot; use fresh soil; trim roots if necessary; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture without saturating the soil. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry during the day. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water lightly and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Increase frequency during hot, dry periods but avoid overwatering.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges in response to extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf discoloration or damage if below freezing for extended periods.
Solution: Protect from frost with a cover or move indoors in cold climates. Ensure good air circulation to prevent mold in damp conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or premature flowering and seed production.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and water more frequently to keep soil cool.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; rinse soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLepidium coronopus is not considered toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk to felines when ingested in normal amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicLepidium coronopus is not considered toxic to dogs. It is not known to cause adverse effects when ingested by canines in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicLepidium coronopus, commonly known as watercress or land cress, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is often consumed as a leafy green vegetable and is valued for its nutritional benefits.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lepidium coronopus safe for pets?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Lepidium coronopus?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Can Lepidium coronopus be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors with adequate sunlight and proper drainage.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 5–7 days during active |
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