Chenopodiastrum hybridum
Chenopodiastrum hybridum · Amaranthaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant chenopodiastrum hybridum: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Hybrid goosefoot
- Family
- Amaranthaceae
- Form
- Annual herbaceous plant
- Adult size
- 30 to 80 cm in height
- Foliage
- Deciduous, greyish-green
- Flowering
- July to September
- Origin
- Eurasia, naturalized in Europe
- Hardiness
- Slightly hardy, frost-sensitive
Care
Exposure
Place this plant in full sun or partial shade. It tolerates sunny and open situations. Good exposure promotes compact growth and limits etiolation.
Soil
Hybrid goosefoot adapts to most soils, including poor and well-drained ones. It prefers fresh soil without excess moisture. Avoid compacted or constantly waterlogged soils.
Watering
Water regularly during the growing season, especially in the juvenile phase, to keep the soil fresh. Gradually reduce watering in summer if the climate is dry. Let the soil dry slightly between waterings.
Fertilizer
Light balanced fertilizer in early season is sufficient for this undemanding plant. Avoid excessive nitrogen applications, which would promote foliage at the expense of structure. An annual herbaceous plant generally doesn't need regular feeding.
Pruning and cutting
Pinch young stems to encourage bushy and branched growth. Remove faded flowers to extend flowering. At the end of the season, let the plant self-seed naturally or eliminate it after the first frosts.
Diseases and pests
Generally robust, this herbaceous plant can be affected by powdery mildew if there is excessive humidity and poor air circulation. Also watch for aphids in spring. Maintain good ventilation to prevent fungal problems.
Did you know?
Hybrid goosefoot is a relatively recent species formed by natural hybridization in Europe. Although little known to the general public, it appears in wild floras as a pioneer plant of wastelands and ruderal habitats, testifying to plants' capacity to adapt to disturbed environments.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.