Baker's Goldfields (Lasthenia californica)
Also known as: Perennial Goldfields, Common Goldfields
Baker's Goldfields (Lasthenia glabrata) is an annual plant in the sunflower family. It features bright yellow flowers that typically bloom in the spring. This species thrives in wetland habitats, such as vernal pools and marshes, and is primarily found in California, especially within the Central Valley and coastal regions.
In This Article
Attributes of Baker's Goldfields
Lifespan
Annual, Perennial
Plant Type
Herb
Plant Height
5 cm to 30 cm
Spread
45 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Flower Size
1.5 cm to 4.5 cm
Flower Color
Yellow
Images of Baker's Goldfields
Quickly Identify Baker's Goldfields
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California goldfields can be identified by its bright yellow, daisy-like flowers, its finely divided, needle-like leaves, and its preference for open, sunny habitats. The plant generally has a short stature and blooms in spring.
Scientific Classification of Baker's Goldfields
Phylum
Vascular plants
Class
Dicotyledons
Order
Asterales
Family
Daisy
Genus
Goldfields
Species
Baker's Goldfields
Planting and Growing of Baker's Goldfields
Care Difficulty
Easy
Watering Schedule
Every 2 days
Sunlight Requirements
Full sun
Sunshine Duration
6-8 hours
Ideal Temperature
55-75℉
Soil Type
Potting Mix, Peat Mix
Soil pH
6.5-7.5
Fertilizer Type
Balanced
Pruning Season
Spring, Summer
Pruning Area
Branches, Leaves
Pruning Frequency
2 times a year
Repotting Season
Spring
Pot Type
Plastic, Ceramic
How to Water Baker's Goldfields?
Lasthenia californica prefers a moderate watering approach. Pour approximately 250 ml of water each time, ensuring the soil is moistened but not waterlogged. This amount provides enough moisture for healthy growth while mimicking its natural dry environment.
What are the symptoms of an underwatered Baker's Goldfields?
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What should I do if my Baker's Goldfields is not getting enough water?
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What are the symptoms of an overwatered Baker's Goldfields?
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How to save an overwatered Baker's Goldfields?
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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Baker's Goldfields?
Lasthenia californica prefers a full sun light range, thriving best with 8 to 10 hours of direct sunlight. This ensures the plant receives enough energy to maintain strong photosynthetic activity, contributing to healthier growth and flowering.
More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→
What is the ideal lighting for Lasthenia californica?
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What are some solutions to achieve ideal lighting?
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What benefits do ideal lighting conditions provide?
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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Baker's Goldfields?
The ideal temperature range for growing Lasthenia californica is between 55°F and 75°F. This range supports optimal growth and flowering, mimicking the plant's natural California climate. Providing consistent temperatures within this range will ensure that the plant thrives with vibrant blooms.
What Soil is Best for Baker's Goldfields?
Lasthenia californica thrives in well-drained soil, ensuring its roots do not sit in water, thus preventing root rot. Adequate drainage maintains optimal root health and supports robust growth. This plant adapts well to nutrient-poor soils, mimicking its native habitat. Low nutrient levels reduce competition from other plants, allowing Lasthenia to establish more easily. Sandy soil, with its larger particles, facilitates air circulation to the roots. This texture supports the plant's preference for lighter soil that warms up quickly in its natural environment.
How to Fertilize Baker's Goldfields?
Lasthenia californica, commonly known as California goldfields, thrives with a balanced approach to fertilization. An appropriate guideline is to use a half-strength liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. This ensures that the essential nutrients are available without overwhelming the plant's delicate root system.
How to Prune Baker's Goldfields?
Before you start pruning, inspect the plant carefully. Look for stems that appear brown or damaged. These should be the primary focus for pruning as they can hinder healthy growth. When removing stems, make your cuts at a 45-degree angle. This technique not only helps minimize water retention on the cut surface but also promotes healthier regrowth.
More About Pruning Techniques→
How to Propagate Baker's Goldfields plant?
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Collect Seeds from mature Lasthenia californica plants after their flowering season. Ensure that seeds are fully developed and dried before collection for higher germination success.
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Sow the collected seeds in seed trays filled with well-draining soil mix. Lightly cover them with a thin layer of soil or fine sand. Firm the soil gently to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
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Water the sown seeds gently, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Employ a fine mist spray to avoid displacing seeds or eroding the soil.
How to Repot Baker's Goldfields plant?
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Lasthenia californica needs repotting when you notice roots circling the pot, growth has stagnated, or water doesn't drain well. Spring and Autumn are ideal, as milder temperatures reduce stress and promote recovery after transplanting.
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Select a pot that's 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Ensure it has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. A breathable terracotta pot is ideal, as it allows for moisture regulation, enhancing root health.
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Opt for well-draining sandy soil to mimic its natural habitat. This type of soil prevents root rot by maintaining adequate air circulation and moisture control, vital for healthy growth of Lasthenia californica.
