An annual or biennial, native to the Mediterranean, and introduced in North America, where it is most abundant in the arid west, but also widespread throughout the continent.
Prefers full sun and exposed conditions. Tolerates mesic conditions when there is less competition from other plants, but usually found in drier conditions. Sensitive to air pollution, especially sulfur dioxide. Prefers a mediterranean climate, but adaptable to a wide range of climates, including wet ones, and ones with cold winters and short growing seasons. In the eastern U.S., where moisture is abundant, mostly found in anthropogenic habitats. The leaves grow close to the ground, making it able to survive regular mowing. Occasionally grows in drier parts of lawns, in south-facing exposures adjacent to buildings, and in narrow strips of mowed grass between parking lots, where the exposed conditions and reflected heat give this species a competitive edge against less drought-tolerant plants. In the southwest, found in a variety of natural semi-arid habitats, including shrublands, meadows, and various montane habitats. A dominant plant in annual grasslands of Californias central valley.
Erodium cicutarium is classified as an annual or biennial. Its life-cycle is predictably short, but it can be classified as a biennial because, especially in warmer climates the seeds often sprout in fall before the previous generations of plant have completely died down. In colder areas, the seeds may not sprout until spring. Seeds usually germinate in response to rain, with greater germination under heavier rains. If it germinates in the fall, the plant establishes a small basal rosette of leaves which goes dormant over the winter. Starts flowering in spring, and continues flowering sporadically through fall. Plants usually are able to flower within 2-4 months of germination. If fruiting stems are removed, such as by grazing or mowing, the plant responds by producing new flowering stems low to the ground, which makes this plant well-adapted to both grazing and mowing. In the absence of mowing or grazing, the plant will grow more upright. The seeds of this species exhibit some intriguing adapatations. Seeds become spring-loaded as they dry, and are launched from the parent plant, although most seeds fall relatively close. A spiral-shaped awn then expands and contracts in response to changes in humidity, often pulling the seeds deeper into the soil. Animals also aid in distributing the seed, particularly rodents, which cache the seed. Not all seeds germinate each year, and the plant can remain in the seed bank for years. The depth of the seeds helps protect them from surface fires and contributes to this species having a longer-term seed bank than many annuals.
Control methods of this species in North America are poorly developed, in part because people often encourage or even intentionally plant this species as a forage, and also because it is not usually regarded as among the most ecologically-damaging species. Most knowledge about control comes from the circumstances where this plant grows as a weed in annual crops. In climates where these crops are grown, planting wheat or barley can be effective for controlling this plant because these two crops compete favorably against it. Related native cool-season grasses, such as wildryes (Elymus sp.) probably are effective at competing with it for similar reasons. In spite of this plant being a favored browse of cattle and other mammals, grazing tends to favor this plant and is thus ineffective for controlling it. Similarly, it is well-adapted to fire and controlled burns tend to favor it (when conducted in spring or summer) or have no effect on it (when conducted in fall.) Tillage can be used to control this plant, if the tilling is timed such that it occurs after this plant emerges in spring, but late enough that it is soon followed by a period where soil temperature rises to about 77°F (25°C) as the seeds do not germinate well in warmer temperatures. However such tillage may not be practical for growing certain crops, and may also have environmental costs. Manual control is not practical where this plant occurs on a large scale, but for small infestations, plants can be pulled by hand before fruiting. Because it has a prolonged and variable bloom period, and germinates at different times of year, the area must be watched from spring through fall. Such control methods are not effective at permanently removing this plant, only at reducing its numbers, as it persists in the seed bank for a long time, and is so widespread where it occurs that recolonization is likely.
This species is an important forage for domestic livestock, including cows, horses, and sheep. It is sometimes intentionally planted for this purpose. Although intentionally planted in some areas, it is considered a noxious weed in others. The flowers are a source of nectar for honey.
There are other Erodium species in North America, including both native and introduced ones, but none are as common or widely distributed. Most occur only in isolated locations. The broader Geraniaceae (geranium) family contains numerous species, both native and introduced.
The plants common name “Storks Bill” references the shape of its seedpods, which resemble a storks open bill.
Battling Crusader Bugs on Alpine Stork’s Bill
As a gardener, finding an infestation of crusader bugs on your prized alpine stork’s bill can be incredibly frustrating These tiny insects may be small, but they can do major damage to your plants if left unchecked. Never fear – in this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore proven techniques to safely and effectively eliminate these pesky invaders from your alpine stork’s bill plants
What are Crusader Bugs?
Crusader bugs (Mictis profana) are a type of shield bug measuring just 1⁄4 inch long at maturity. They are oval-shaped insects with coloring ranging from tan to dark brown. Nymphs are bright red.
Unlike other shield bugs that feed on plant juices, crusaders are predatory Both nymphs and adults use their piercing, straw-like mouthparts to stab and feed on small insects like mites, aphids, and thrips
While controlling garden pests, crusader bugs can quickly get out of control and become pests themselves if populations explode. Feeding damage from their sharp mouthparts can stunt growth and deform flowers. Large infestations can even kill plants.
Impacts on Alpine Stork’s Bill
Alpine stork’s bill (Erodium reichardii) is a delicate perennial flower prized for its lacy, fern-like foliage and pretty blooms in shades of pink or white. Heavy crusader bug infestations can spell disaster for these dainty plants.
Crusader bugs tend to congregate on tender new shoots, buds, and the undersides of leaves where they stab tissues to feed. This can cause stunted, twisted growth and yellowing, curled leaves. Blooms may fail to open properly or become marked and misshapen from feeding damage. These pests can seriously impact alpine stork’s bill’s health and beauty if not controlled.
Non-Chemical Crusader Bug Treatments
- Knock off bugs with a strong spray of water
Give plants a forceful rinse to physically dislodge crusader bugs. Concentrate on the undersides of leaves and new growth. Repeat as needed.
- Apply insecticidal soap
Insecticidal soaps containing potassium salts of fatty acids kill soft-bodied insects through contact. Spray all plant surfaces, especially the undersides of leaves where bugs tend to hide.
- Introduce natural predators
Ladybugs, spiders, lacewings and predatory stink bugs all help control crusader bug populations naturally. Attract them by providing pollen and nectar sources.
- Set out shallow dishes of soapy water
Crusader bugs often drop from foliage and fall into the soapy water where they drown. Position dishes under infested plants.
- Vacuum off visible bugs
For light infestations, a handheld vacuum with a brush attachment can help remove bugs from plants. Take care not to damage delicate tissues.
- Use row covers
Floating row covers act as a physical barrier preventing bugs from reaching plants. Secure edges to completely exclude pests.
When Pesticides Are Needed
For severe crusader bug infestations, non-chemical methods may not provide adequate control. In these cases, pesticides may be warranted. Products containing these ingredients target small sucking insects:
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Pyrethroids like bifenthrin, cyfluthrin and permethrin
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Neonicotinoids such as imidacloprid or dinotefuran
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Horticultural oils and soaps that smother insects
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Azadirachtin derived from neem oil, which repels and disrupts crusader bug growth
Carefully follow all label directions when using pesticides. Avoid spraying open blooms and use the minimum effective dosage to reduce risks to pollinators and other beneficials. Systemic treatments require time to distribute through plant tissues. Combine chemical and non-chemical methods for best results.
Preventing Crusader Bugs on Alpine Stork’s Bill
While periodic crusader bug infestations are hard to avoid completely, you can make your garden less hospitable through smart practices:
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Encourage natural predators by providing pollen/nectar plants and water sources
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Remove weeds around planting beds to eliminate alternative food sources
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Avoid over-fertilizing, which results in fast, tender growth that attracts piercing-sucking insects
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Use row covers over plants to form a bug barrier
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Check for bugs early and often – it’s much easier to control small populations
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Rotate pesticide modes of action to prevent resistance
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after treatment, dispose of heavily infested trimmings immediately
With persistence and an integrated pest management plan, you can successfully eradicate destructive crusader bugs from your alpine stork’s bill while minimizing risks to pollinators, the environment, and human health. Combining preventive cultural practices, mechanical removal, natural predators, and selective least-toxic pesticide use when warranted by population size allows you to cultivate lush, thriving plants. Just stay vigilant, act early, and utilize multiple strategies tailored to crusader bug biology – soon, your garden will be free to flourish.
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