Pigweed, Lamb's Quarters
chenopodium berlandieri
Also known as: ["Lamb's Quarters","Manroot Pigweed","Wild Spinach"]
Overview
An annual herbaceous plant in the goosefoot family, historically cultivated by indigenous peoples for its edible seeds and leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus: | Chenopodium |
| Botanical Name: | Chenopodium berlandieri |
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":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Loamy, fertile soil with good organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) in spring and summer; partial shade during peak summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; monitor for sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loam with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure aeration; enrich with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or stem cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium.
- Sow seeds or take cuttings.
- Maintain moisture.
- Provide warmth.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer for optimal root development.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), humid, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or perlite and peat moss blend.
Hormone
Optional for stem cuttings, but can improve rooting success.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 1–3 weeks; cuttings root in 2–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), seed trays, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; keep cuttings humid; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage bushiness; remove spent flowers to promote further blooming.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged growth to maintain vigor.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape lightly; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter.
Method
Use fresh well-draining soil; gently tease out rootbound plants; ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; water plant before repotting; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil.
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 in the morning to reduce 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 or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite for drainage; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Provide frost protection; move potted plants indoors; use row covers for garden plants.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch in excessive heat; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute properly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicChenopodium berlandieri is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not typically cause adverse effects when ingested by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicChenopodium berlandieri is not known to be toxic to dogs. It is not associated with any significant adverse effects when ingested by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicChenopodium berlandieri is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It has been used as a food source in traditional diets and does not typically cause adverse effects when consumed in moderation.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Chenopodium berlandieri edible?
A: Yes, its leaves and seeds are edible and have been used as food sources historically.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is it considered a weed?
A: Yes, it is often classified as a weed due to its invasive growth habits.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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