Description of Bidens aristosa (Michx.) Britt. var. mutica (Gray) Gattinger
Bidens aristosa (Michx.) Britt. var. mutica (Gray) Gattinger is a flowering plant that is native to North America. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is commonly known as bearded beggartick or tickseed sunflower. The plant has many uses, both ornamentally and medicinally. It is also known to provide sustenance for certain species of insects and birds.
General Appearance of Bidens aristosa (Michx.) Britt. var. mutica (Gray) Gattinger
Bidens aristosa (Michx.) Britt. var. mutica (Gray) Gattinger can grow to a height of around 3-6 feet and typically spreads around 1-2 feet. The plant has a thin and hairy stem that supports dark green, serrated leaves. The flowers of this plant are small, with yellow petals surrounded by dark-colored bracts that give it the name bearded beggartick. The fruits of the plant are small, flat, brown seeds with two barbed projections that cling to clothing and animal fur, spreading the plant's seeds.
Uses of Bidens aristosa (Michx.) Britt. var. mutica (Gray) Gattinger
The bearded beggartick plant is known for its medicinal value in traditional medicine. It is said to have diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties, making it useful in treating digestive problems and infections. Additionally, Bidens aristosa (Michx.) Britt. var. mutica (Gray) Gattinger is also adaptable for use in landscaping, where it can add an aesthetic value to gardens, roadways, and fields.
The flowers of bearded beggartick are known to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, while the seeds provide food for birds and wildlife. Additionally, Bidens aristosa (Michx.) Britt. var. mutica (Gray) Gattinger has also been used in erosion control as it can be planted to help prevent soil from washing away in areas with high soil erosion rates.
Overall, Bidens aristosa (Michx.) Britt. var. mutica (Gray) Gattinger is a versatile plant that has multiple uses and can be beneficial to both humans and the environment.
Light Requirements
Bidens aristosa (Michx.) Britt. var. mutica (Gray) Gattinger thrives in full sunlight conditions. This species requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight exposure daily. Lack of adequate sunlight exposure may result in stunted growth and weakened stems. Therefore, it is best to plant this species in areas that receive maximum sunlight exposure throughout the day.
Temperature Requirements
Bidens aristosa (Michx.) Britt. var. mutica (Gray) Gattinger thrives in warm temperatures. The ideal temperature range for optimal growth and development of this species is between 75°F to 85°F. Temperatures below 55°F and above 100°F may hinder the growth of the species. Extreme temperature fluctuations may also result in reduced plant growth, premature wilting, and leaf drop.
Soil Requirements
Bidens aristosa (Michx.) Britt. var. mutica (Gray) Gattinger prefers well-drained soils with a pH range of 5.8 to 6.5. This species adapts and grows well in many soil types, such as sandy, loam, and clay soils. It is important to ensure the soil is adequately moist but not waterlogged to maintain optimal plant growth. Soil moisture can be regulated by consistent watering, especially during periods of drought. Additionally, adding organic matter to the soil can enhance the growth of this species.
Cultivation Methods
Bidens aristosa (Michx.) Britt. var. mutica (Gray) Gattinger, commonly known as Hairy-fruited Tickseed, is a plant that can grow in various soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. It can tolerate drought and prefers full sun to partial shade. The plant multiplies through seeds which can be sown in the early spring outdoors or indoors six weeks before the last frost. It is also possible to propagate the plant through stem cuttings.
Watering Needs
Bidens aristosa (Michx.) Britt. var. mutica (Gray) Gattinger requires moderate watering. The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive in drought conditions, but it is essential to water it twice a week during the growing season. It is crucial to ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Over-watering can cause root rot and other issues that may harm the plant.
Fertilization
Fertilization is essential to ensure the healthy growth of Bidens aristosa (Michx.) Britt. var. mutica (Gray) Gattinger. Applying a balanced fertilizer with equal proportions of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is ideal. It is advisable to fertilize the plant twice a year – once in the spring and once in the fall. Fertilizers can be applied as a top dressing or mixed with water and applied as a foliar spray.
Pruning
Bidens aristosa (Michx.) Britt. var. mutica (Gray) Gattinger does not require extensive pruning. However, it is advisable to prune the plant during the early spring to control its growth and promote bushy growth. Deadheading is also necessary to encourage a more extended blooming period and to prevent the plant from self-seeding and spreading too aggressively. It is best to use clean, sharp tools and disinfect them between cuts to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation Methods for Bidens aristosa (Michx.) Britt. var. mutica (Gray) Gattinger
Bidens aristosa (Michx.) Britt. var. mutica (Gray) Gattinger, commonly known as bearded beggarticks or muticous beggarticks, is a herbaceous plant species of the family Asteraceae. The plant is native to North America and can be found in wetlands, marshes, and meadows. The propagation of bearded beggarticks can be done through different methods, including seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method used for growing Bidens aristosa (Michx.) Britt. var. mutica (Gray) Gattinger. This method involves the use of seeds collected from the plant during the flowering period.
To propagate the plant through seed, collect mature seeds from the plant and dry them in the sun. Once dry, sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix and cover them lightly with soil. Water the seeds regularly to keep the soil moist. Germination occurs in about 7 to 14 days, and the seedlings should be transplanted to larger pots or the garden bed when they have developed three to four true leaves.
Vegetative Propagation
Bidens aristosa (Michx.) Britt. var. mutica (Gray) Gattinger can also be propagated vegetatively using stem cuttings. This method is useful for gardeners who want to increase the number of plants fast or have difficulty getting seeds.
To propagate through stem cuttings, take cuttings from the plant's stem during the active growth period. Make sure each cutting has at least three nodes and remove the leaves from the lower part of the cutting. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and maintain high humidity by covering the cuttings with plastic bags. Rooting takes between 2-4 weeks, and once rooted, the plants can be transplanted into larger pots or the garden bed.
Disease Management
Bidens aristosa (Michx.) Britt. var. mutica (Gray) Gattinger, is relatively resistant to diseases. However, it can be affected by several fungal, bacterial, and viral diseases.
The most common diseases that may affect Bidens aristosa (Michx.) Britt. var. mutica (Gray) Gattinger include:
- Leaf Spot: It is caused by different fungi species such as Cerospora species, Septoria species, and Phyllosticta species. The signs of the disease include circular to angular spots with a grayish-white center and brownish margins. To manage the disease, infected plant debris should be removed, and proper sanitation measures should be taken.
- Bacterial Blight: It is caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris. Symptoms include water-soaked, yellowish-green spots on stems and leaves. Infected plants lose vigor, and the leaves turn yellow and fall off. To manage bacterial blight, infected plants must be destroyed, and copper-based fungicides can be used to control and prevent the spread of the disease.
- Mosaic Virus: Symptoms of the mosaic virus include yellow, necrotic, or mottled leaf discoloration. Infected plants can lose foliage, become stunted, and have a reduced yield. There is no cure for viral infections, and the use of resistant plant varieties should be considered.
Pest Management
Bidens aristosa (Michx.) Britt. var. mutica (Gray) Gattinger, is relatively resistant to pest infestation. However, it can be affected by several insect pests and mites.
The most common pests that may affect Bidens aristosa (Michx.) Britt. var. mutica (Gray) Gattinger include:
- Spider Mites: They feed on the undersides of leaves, causing bronzing, yellowing, and premature leaf drop. To manage spider mites, natural predators such as ladybugs and predatory mites can be introduced. Horticultural oils and insecticidal soaps can also help control infestations.
- Aphids: They feed on the sap of leaves and can cause deformation and yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, and honeydew residue. To manage aphids, natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings can be introduced. Insecticidal soaps and oils are also effective.
- Caterpillars: They can feed on leaves, stems, and flowers, causing severe damage and defoliation. Handpicking or biological control using Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) can be effective in managing caterpillars. Chemical insecticides may also be used, but they should be used with caution to avoid killing beneficial insects.
