Hedge Mustard
sisymbrium officinale
Also known as: ["Poor Man's Mustard","Tumble Mustard"]
Overview
A herbaceous annual or biennial plant in the Brassicaceae family, known for its small yellow flowers and pinnate leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Sisymbrium |
| Botanical Name: | Sisymbrium officinale |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or field, adaptable to various outdoor settings
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Adaptable to various soils but prefers well-draining, moderately fertile soil.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; typically light pruning throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing damaged or diseased parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate seedlings gradually to full sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure adequate airflow to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing near reflective surfaces that intensify sunlight.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormant periods
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-drained, moderately fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging; enrich with organic matter if needed.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F/15–24°C); tolerates heat but may bolt in excessive warmth.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
rarely required, if used then every 3–4 months during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing before flowering for better seed production.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common; direct sow in spring or fall.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare soil.
- Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep.
- Thin seedlings to 6–12 inches apart.
- Water gently.
Best Time: Spring or early fall when temperatures are mild and soil is workable.
Environment
Warm soil (60–70°F/15–21°C), full sun, and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-drained soil or seed-starting mix; can germinate in poor soil conditions.
Hormone
Not required for seeds.
Timeline
Germination in 7–14 days; plants reach maturity in 60–90 days.
Tools Needed
Garden trowel, watering can, seed trays (optional).
Quick Tips
Sow seeds in groups for easier thinning; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; label varieties if growing multiple types.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off unwanted growth with clean cuts; avoid cutting into main stems.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove dead or yellowing leaves to improve air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, scissors, or a sharp knife.
Checklist
Clean tools; remove dead/diseased parts; improve air flow; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot if repotting; ensure drainage holes are present.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if crowded; place in fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Generally not required as it is an annual plant; if grown in containers, repot annually in spring.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; handle roots carefully; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost for fertility; mix sand or perlite for drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress), wilting or premature flowering (heat stress).
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; roots may become waterlogged due to reduced evaporation.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use row covers or cloches for outdoor plants; ensure soil is well-drained.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced or premature.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label; dilute correctly; apply to soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal distress if they ingest significant amounts of Sisymbrium officinale. The plant's glucosinolate content could potentially disrupt thyroid function with chronic exposure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicSimilar to humans, dogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume large quantities of Sisymbrium officinale due to its glucosinolate content. Prolonged or excessive ingestion could potentially affect thyroid function.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Slightly ToxicSisymbrium officinale contains glucosinolates, which can release thiocyanates upon hydrolysis, potentially leading to goiter or hypothyroidism if consumed in excessive amounts over time. The plant is generally considered safe in small quantities but may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hedge Mustard edible?
A: Yes, its leaves and young shoots can be eaten raw or cooked, but should be consumed in moderation due to mild toxicity.
Q: Does Hedge Mustard attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its small yellow flowers.
Q: Is Hedge Mustard invasive?
A: Yes, it can be invasive in cultivated areas and is often considered a weed.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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