Complete Information Guide To Rhizomes
What Are Rhizomes?
Rhizomes are modified subterranean plant stems that send out roots and shoots from their nodes. They are also known as creeping rootstalks or rootstocks. Rhizomes store nutrients such as starches and proteins, which help the plant survive unfavorable seasons and propagate vegetatively.
Popular Plants with Rhizomes
Some common plants that grow from rhizomes include:
– Irises
– Gingers
– Bamboo
– Hops
– Asparagus
– Turmeric
– Lotus
– Ferns
– Bird of Paradise
– Cannas
– Mint
– Lily of the Valley
– Snake Plants
– Peace Lilies
– Bermuda Grass
– Johnson Grass
– Aleppo Sorghum
– Coquito or Cypero
Planting Rhizomes
1. **Selecting the Right Location**: Choose a spot that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. Ensure the soil is well-drained to prevent waterlogging.
2. **Soil Preparation**: Loosen the soil to a depth of 12-15 inches and mix in compost or aged manure to improve soil structure and fertility.
3. **Planting Depth**: Plant rhizomes horizontally, with the top exposed and roots facing downwards. In hot climates, cover rhizomes with up to one inch of soil.
4. **Spacing**: Space rhizomes according to the plant’s mature size to allow for proper growth.
5. **Watering**: Water thoroughly after planting and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Caring for Rhizomes
1. **Watering**: Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during the growing season. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to rot.
2. **Mulching**: Apply a layer of mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
3. **Fertilizing**: Use a balanced fertilizer to provide essential nutrients for healthy growth.
4. **Pest and Disease Control**: Monitor for pests and diseases, and take appropriate measures to control them.
5. **Dividing Rhizomes**: Every 3-5 years, divide overcrowded rhizomes to promote healthy growth.
Propagation of Rhizomes
1. **Vegetative Propagation**: Rhizomes can be propagated vegetatively, meaning each piece can give rise to a new plant.
2. **Cuttings**: Clear the plant’s roots and rhizome of soil. Using a sharp knife, cut the rhizome of a new shoot that has started growing some roots. Place the new cuttings into a new pot with some appropriate potting mixture for the plant. Water the new plant and position it where it will get an appropriate amount of sunlight.
3. **Other Methods of Propagation**:
– **Division**: This involves cutting the rhizome into sections, each with at least one bud or eye. Plant each section separately to grow new plants.
– **Layering**: Encouraging a stem to produce roots while still attached to the parent plant. Once rooted, the new plant can be detached and planted separately.
– **Tissue Culture**: A laboratory method where plant tissues are cultured in a nutrient medium. This method is used for mass propagation of plants.
Edible Rhizomes
– Ginger: Known for its culinary and medicinal properties.
– Turmeric: Used in cooking and traditional medicine.
– Asparagus: A popular vegetable.
– Lotus: Used in Asian cuisine.
Non-Edible Rhizomes
– Bamboo: Used for construction, furniture, and crafts.
– Irises: Popular for their beautiful flowers.
– Ferns: Common ornamental plants.
– Mint: Used for its aromatic leaves in cooking and beverages.
Additional Information
– Rhizomes store nutrients that are useful for new shoot formation or survival during winter.
– Rhizomes can spread horizontally, allowing plants to cover large areas.
– Some rhizomes are invasive, such as Bermuda grass and Johnson grass, and may require barriers to control their spread.
– Rhizomes are typically planted in late winter or early spring, depending on the specific plant and climate conditions.