Bidens Abyssinica Sch.bip. Ex Walp. Var. Quadriaristata Hochst. Ex Schweinf.

Overview

Bidens abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex Walp. var. quadriaristata Hochst. ex Schweinf. is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the family of Asteraceae. It is native to Ethiopia and is commonly known as Ethiopia's Beggars-tick.

Appearance

Bidens abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex Walp. var. quadriaristata Hochst. ex Schweinf. is an annual plant that can grow up to 80 cm tall. It has long, slender stems and alternating leaves that are lance-shaped and serrated. The plant produces bright yellow flowers that bloom in clusters at the end of the stems. The plant's fruit is a small, brown, hard, and flattened seed that has two barbed bristles at one end, making it stick to clothing or animal fur, aiding its dispersal.

Uses

Bidens abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex Walp. var. quadriaristata Hochst. ex Schweinf. has been used in traditional medicine to cure several ailments, including respiratory and gastrointestinal disorders. It has also been used as a natural insecticide due to its strong pungent scent that repels insects. Additionally, the plant's fibers can be made into rope for both domestic and commercial use.

Conclusion

Bidens abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex Walp. var. quadriaristata Hochst. ex Schweinf. is a useful plant with many advantages. Although it is predominantly known for its medicinal properties, its use in other fields such as agriculture and textile production cannot be overlooked. Its ability to adapt to different environmental conditions and fast germination makes it an ideal option for countries with scarce resources.

Light Conditions

Bidens abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex Walp. var. quadriaristata Hochst. ex Schweinf. typically grows well in full sunlight, though it can also tolerate some shade. If the plant is grown indoors, it should be placed in a bright, well-lit area near a window.

Temperature Requirements

This plant is native to Ethiopia and other parts of East Africa, where temperatures tend to be warm. It does well in temperatures between 60-80°F (15-27°C), but can withstand temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C). Extreme fluctuations in temperature should be avoided to prevent damage to the plant.

Soil Conditions

Bidens abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex Walp. var. quadriaristata Hochst. ex Schweinf. prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH, from acidic to alkaline, but prefers a slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0-6.5. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, to prevent root rot.

Fertilization

This plant benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season (spring and summer). A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium should be used every 2-3 weeks. It should be noted that over-fertilizing can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduced flowering.

Watering Needs

Bidens abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex Walp. var. quadriaristata Hochst. ex Schweinf. should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. The frequency of watering depends on the temperature, humidity, and soil type. In general, it should be watered every 1-2 days during the growing season, and less frequently during the dormant season.

Cultivation methods

Bidens abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex Walp. var. quadriaristata Hochst. ex Schweinf. is a hardy plant that can grow in a wide range of soils. However, it thrives in well-drained soils and under full sun exposure. If planting in a pot, use a container with drainage holes and a well-draining potting mix. Sow the seeds at a depth of 1/8 to 1/4 inch and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged until germination.

Thin the seedlings to one plant every 6 inches once they have four true leaves. If planting in a garden bed, space the plants 12 to 18 inches apart to allow for adequate air circulation and reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

Watering needs

Bidens abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex Walp. var. quadriaristata Hochst. ex Schweinf. prefers evenly moist soil but can tolerate periods of drought. Water the plants deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot and dry weather. Avoid overhead watering, as wet leaves can increase the risk of fungal diseases. Water at the base of the plant to direct water to the roots.

Fertilization

Bidens abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex Walp. var. quadriaristata Hochst. ex Schweinf. does not require heavy fertilization and can thrive in low-nutrient soils. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 5-5-5 formula, once a month during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing during the winter dormancy period.

Pruning

Bidens abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex Walp. var. quadriaristata Hochst. ex Schweinf. does not require heavy pruning but benefits from occasional deadheading. Deadheading can help prolong the blooming season and promote bushier growth. Pinch off the spent flowers, along with a small portion of the stem, just above a set of leaves. Avoid pruning in the late summer and fall, as this can stimulate new growth that is susceptible to frost damage.

Propagation Methods for Bidens abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex Walp. var. quadriaristata Hochst. ex Schweinf.

Bidens abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex Walp. var. quadriaristata Hochst. ex Schweinf. is commonly propagated through seeds and cuttings. Both methods have their own specific requirements and the success rate largely depends on careful execution of the propagation processes.

Propagation through Seeds

Propagation of Bidens abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex Walp. var. quadriaristata Hochst. ex Schweinf. through seeds requires ensuring that the seedlings have adequate moisture and light. Seeds should be collected from mature and healthy plants and then allowed to dry in a cool, shaded and dry place. Once the seeds have dried, they can be stored in a cool and dry place until they are ready to be sown. Before sowing, the seeds should be soaked in water for about 24 hours to enhance germination rates.

Seeds should be then sown in a well-draining soil mix, where high humidity and moisture levels can be maintained. The soil should be kept slightly moist at all times to provide the seeds with the necessary moisture for germination. Germination can take between 2 to 3 weeks, depending on the temperature and humidity levels. Once the seedlings have germinated, they should be carefully transplanted to individual pots and kept in a sheltered area until they are strong enough to be planted outside.

Propagation through Cuttings

Bidens abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex Walp. var. quadriaristata Hochst. ex Schweinf. can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be collected from healthy plants during the growing season. The cuttings should be taken from the growing tips of mature stems and should be about 15cm long.

Before planting, the base of the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and then planted in a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist and high humidity levels should be maintained around the cuttings. The plants should be kept in a shaded area until they have formed roots, which can take about 4 to 6 weeks. Once the plants have established roots, they can be transplanted to individual pots or directly planted in the garden.

Disease and Pest Management for Bidens abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex Walp. var. quadriaristata Hochst. ex Schweinf.

Bidens abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex Walp. var. quadriaristata Hochst. ex Schweinf. is generally a hardy plant that is resistant to many pests and diseases. However, certain conditions can make the plant susceptible to damage caused by pests and diseases.

Common Diseases

One of the most common diseases that can affect Bidens abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex Walp. var. quadriaristata Hochst. ex Schweinf. is leaf spot disease. This fungal disease appears as small, dark spots on the leaves that eventually grow larger and merge into each other. The affected leaves may turn yellow and eventually die. The disease can be managed by keeping the plant foliage dry, avoiding overhead watering, and applying a fungicide.

Another disease that can be a problem is powdery mildew. This disease appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. Infected leaves may curl downward and become distorted, and the plant may stop growing. Infected plants can be managed through improved air circulation and the use of a fungicide.

Common Pests

The most commonly observed pests on Bidens abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex Walp. var. quadriaristata Hochst. ex Schweinf. are aphids. These small, soft-bodied insects can suck sap from the plant, causing leaves to become yellowed and distorted. The pests can be managed through the application of an insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Caterpillars are another pest that can cause damage to the plant. They can chew on leaves and stems, leading to stunted growth and decreased yield. Handpicking and using natural predators are effective ways to control caterpillars.

Spider mites can also be a problem. These tiny pests live on the undersides of leaves and suck sap, leading to discoloration and mottling of leaves. They can be managed by applying a miticide or using natural predators such as ladybugs.

Overall, a healthy plant is less vulnerable to pests and diseases. Therefore, proper care should be taken to maintain the health of Bidens abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex Walp. var. quadriaristata Hochst. ex Schweinf. by providing it with adequate sunlight, water, and nutrients.