Overview
Bidens beckii Torr. ex Spreng. is a plant species belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, where it grows in sandy soils and along streambanks.
Common Names
Bidens beckii is commonly referred to as Beck's water marigold or Beck's beggartick. The latter name refers to the plant's small, needle-like seeds that stick to clothing and animal fur, earning it the nickname of "beggar's ticks."
Appearance
Bidens beckii is a herbaceous annual plant that typically grows up to 1 meter tall. Its stems are erect, branching, and covered in small, stiff hairs. The plant's leaves are pinnately divided, with narrow, toothed leaflets. The flowers are small, yellow, and daisy-like, appearing in late summer and early fall. They are followed by the plant's characteristic burr-like fruits, which contain the aforementioned needle-like seeds.
Uses
The seeds of Bidens beckii were traditionally used by Native American tribes for medicinal purposes, such as treating skin conditions and respiratory ailments. The plant has also been used as a food source, with the young leaves and stems being consumed raw or cooked. Additionally, Bidens beckii is used in ornamental horticulture due to its attractive flowers and interesting seed heads.
Light Requirements
Bidens beckii Torr. ex Spreng. requires full sun exposure to grow properly. The plant should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. Insufficient sunlight exposure can result in stunted growth and poor flowering performance.
Temperature Requirements
This plant thrives in warm temperatures, ranging from 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It is important to avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, as it can result in cold damage and plant death. During winter seasons, it is advised to move the plant indoors to avoid exposure to harsh, cold temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Bidens beckii Torr. ex Spreng. does well in well-draining, loamy, and fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant should be planted in a soil mix that is designed for outdoor plants or a homemade mixture made of two parts sand, two parts loam, and one part compost. The pH of the soil should be slightly acidic with a range of 6.0 to 6.5. Ensure that the soil does not become waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot and other soil-borne diseases.
Cultivation of Bidens beckii Torr. ex Spreng.
Bidens beckii Torr. ex Spreng. plant is native to North America and requires specific conditions to thrive. It grows well in areas with moderate temperatures ranging from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
The plant can adapt well to different soil types, but it thrives in moist, well-draining soils. It would be best if you planted it in areas with partial to full sunlight exposure.
Watering Needs
Bidens beckii Torr. ex Spreng. plant requires sufficient watering to maintain moist soil. It would be best if you watered it once a week in moderate temperatures and every two days in hot weather.
For effective watering, you should aim to maintain the soil moist to a depth of 4-6 inches. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure you regulate the amount of water you use.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization is necessary for the healthy growth of Bidens beckii Torr. ex Spreng. plant. You should provide the plant with balanced soluble fertilizers every month. You may also add organic matter to the soil to improve nutrients absorption.
It would be best if you avoided applying excess nitrogen fertilizer. The nitrogen may lead to vigorous vegetative growth with less flowering.
Pruning
Pruning helps to maintain the compact form of Bidens beckii Torr. ex Spreng. plant. You should prune the plant regularly to increase branching and promote flowering. It would be best if you cut back the top one-third of the plant to maintain its shape.
It would be best if you sterilized your pruning tools before use to prevent the spread of diseases between plants. This can be done by wiping them with alcohol or dipping in boiling water before use.
Propagation of Bidens beckii Torr. ex Spreng.
Bidens beckii Torr. ex Spreng., commonly known as Beck's water marigold, is a plant species found in wetlands of North America. Propagation of this plant is possible by several methods, including seed propagation, cutting propagation, and division.
Seed Propagation
The most common propagation method for Bidens beckii Torr. ex Spreng. is through seed propagation. One can obtain seeds from matured plants following the flowering period in late summer or early fall. The seeds should be sown in a moist and well-draining soil mixture preferably in the spring. Then, they should be kept moist but not overwatered until germination, which usually takes 1 to 2 weeks. Seedlings should be transplanted to a proper location once they are mature enough to handle.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation could be used as an alternative to seed propagation. This method involves taking 4 to 5 inches cutting from the new growths of the plant. Cutting should be taken during the growing season and should be placed into the well-draining soil mixture in a pot. The soil should be kept slightly moist, and the cuttings should be kept in a shaded area. After two to three months, the cuttings should have developed roots and can be transplanted to a permanent location.
Division
Division is another propagation method that can be used for Bidens beckii Torr. ex Spreng. This method involves dividing the root clumps into smaller sections and replanting them. It's best to do this in spring, preferably during the early growing season. The divided sections should be planted in a well-draining soil mixture, kept moist and shaded until they establish well.
Disease Management
The plant Bidens beckii Torr. ex Spreng. is susceptible to various diseases. One common disease is powdery mildew, which is caused by fungal spores in humid conditions. To manage powdery mildew, prune the affected plant parts, provide good air circulation, and avoid watering the leaves. Neem oil and baking soda sprays are also effective in controlling powdery mildew.
Another common disease that may affect Bidens beckii Torr. ex Spreng. is leaf spot, which is caused by a fungus that usually infects the lower leaves first. To manage leaf spot, it is recommended to prune infected leaves, water from the base of the plant, and avoid overcrowding the plants. Fungicides can also be used as a preventative measure.
Pest Management
Various pests can also affect Bidens beckii Torr. ex Spreng. One of the most common pests is aphids, which suck the sap from plants and cause wilting. To manage aphids, use a strong stream of water to wash them off, attract natural predators like ladybugs, or apply insecticidal soap.
Another pest that may infest Bidens beckii Torr. ex Spreng. is spider mites, which cause yellowing and curling leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the affected plants with water, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and prune affected leaves. It is also recommended to maintain proper humidity levels by misting the plants regularly.
Lastly, whiteflies can also pose a threat to Bidens beckii Torr. ex Spreng. causing yellow leaves and stunted growth. To manage whiteflies, use yellow sticky traps, prune affected leaves, and release natural predators like parasitic wasps. Insecticidal soap and neem oil are also effective in controlling whiteflies.
