Overview
Bidens borianiana is a tall perennial plant belonging to the family Asteraceae. It is known for its showy yellow flowers and is commonly used in traditional medicine.
Origin and Distribution
Bidens borianiana is native to Mexico and Central America, but it can also be found in other parts of the world such as southeast Asia, Africa and Australia. It typically grows in moist areas such as swamps, marshes and along riverbanks.
Common Names
Bidens borianiana is also known as Spanish Needles, Beggar's Ticks, Black-jack, Cobbler's Pegs, and Devil's-pitchfork.
Uses
In traditional medicine, the plant is often used to treat a variety of ailments such as rheumatism, fever, and skin infections. It has also been used as a diuretic, an anti-inflammatory, and to treat gastrointestinal disorders. The leaves and stems of the plant are sometimes boiled and applied externally to treat wounds, burns and insect bites.
General Appearance
Bidens borianiana typically reaches heights of 1-2 meters (3-6 feet) and has long, thin stems that are often covered in small, hooked bristles. The plant has green leaves that are toothed and usually opposite each other along the stem. The flowers of the plant are yellow and have 8-12 petals. The fruits are small, ribbed achenes that are covered in small hooks, which attach to clothing and animal fur - giving the plant its common names.
Light Requirements
Bidens borianiana is a plant that requires bright but indirect sunlight. The plant cannot tolerate direct sunlight. It needs an average of 6-8 hours of indirect sunlight per day to grow and thrive.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires a warm and humid environment to grow. The ideal temperature for Bidens borianiana is within the range of 15-30 °C (59-86 °F). Temperatures below 10 °C (50 °F) can be detrimental to its growth and survival.
Soil Requirements
Bidens borianiana prefers a well-draining soil rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH range of 6.0-6.5. The plant does well in loamy or sandy soil that is moderately fertile and does not retain excess water.
Cultivation methods
Bidens borianiana is a perennial herb that is well-known for its attractive yellow flowers. It is native to the tropical regions of Mexico and Central America, but it can be grown in other parts of the world. This plant prefers well-draining soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It requires a minimum temperature of 10°C to thrive, so it is best grown in warm climates.
You can propagate Bidens borianiana using seeds or stem cuttings. If you're starting from seeds, soak them in water for a few hours before planting. Make sure you keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes about two weeks. For stem cuttings, take a healthy stem from the plant and plant it in a well-draining soil mix.
Watering needs
Watering Bidens borianiana once or twice a week is usually enough for its growth. However, it is important to make sure the soil doesn't dry out completely. When watering, avoid getting the foliage wet as that promotes the growth of fungal diseases. To ensure the plant gets enough water, monitor the soil moisture level regularly using a moisture meter or by checking the soil with your finger.
Fertilization
Bidens borianiana doesn't need a lot of fertilization, but it benefits from occasional feeding during the growing season. You can use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10. Apply the fertilizer every 4-6 weeks to encourage healthy growth. Be careful not to over-fertilize as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and fewer blooms.
Pruning
Bidens borianiana benefits from pruning as it promotes bushier growth and more flowers. Prune the plant in spring before new growth starts by cutting back any dead or damaged stems. You can also shape the plant by cutting back any long stems to encourage fuller growth. Deadheading, the removal of old flowers, is also essential for continuous blooming. Remove faded flowers regularly to encourage new blooms.
Propagation of Bidens borianiana
Bidens borianiana is commonly propagated using three primary methods: seed, cuttings, and division. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the specific needs of the plant owner and the quantity of plants required.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation through seed is straightforward and the most cost-effective method for growing large quantities of Bidens borianiana. This method is ideally suited for experienced horticulturists or individuals who are accustomed to growing plants from seed. Seeding can be done either outdoors or indoors, depending on the region's climate.
The seeds can be sown directly in the garden soil after the frost season has passed in the spring, or they can be started indoors at least 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost date. The seeds should be planted in well-draining soil kept moist but not overly wet. The ideal temperature range for seed germination is 70°F to 75°F. Seedlings should be spaced 12 to 15 inches apart in the garden after they have established their first set of true leaves.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is an excellent method for producing numerous Bidens borianiana plants that are genetically identical to the parent plant. The optimal time for taking stem cuttings is during the spring or early summer when the plant is in the active growth phase.
Select healthy, mature stems that are approximately 4 to 6 inches long and do not have any flowers or buds. Remove the bottom leaves, cut the stem just below a leaf node, and dip the cut end into rooting hormone. The cuttings can be planted in a well-draining potting mix or directly in the garden soil, keeping them evenly moist and in the shade until new roots have formed.
Propagation by Division
Bidens borianiana plants can also be propagated by division, where the root ball is divided into smaller sections and replanted. This method is most effective when the plant has grown too large or has outgrown its container. Division is also useful for rejuvenating an older plant or sharing a plant with other gardeners.
To divide Bidens borianiana, carefully remove the plant from its container or dig it out of the garden soil, taking care not to damage the roots. Gently shake off excess soil, and divide the root ball into several smaller sections using a sharp, sterilized knife or pruning shears. Each section should have a healthy set of roots and at least one stem with foliage. The divided sections can be planted in new containers or garden beds, and watered deeply to settle the soil around the roots.
Disease and Pest Management for Bidens borianiana
Bidens borianiana is a species of flowering plant belonging to the Asteraceae family, commonly known as tickseed. Like all other plants, it is susceptible to a range of pests and diseases that can cause significant damage if left unaddressed. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that might affect Bidens borianiana and how to manage them:
Diseases
Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can develop quickly in high humidity conditions, causing a white, powdery growth on the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, remove affected leaves and ensure good air circulation around the plant. You may also want to apply a fungicide to prevent further spread.
Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by different fungal and bacterial pathogens and presents as small, circular spots on the foliage. To control leaf spot, remove infected leaves and avoid wetting the foliage when watering. Application of fungicides can also be effective, especially in severe cases.
Verticillium Wilt: This soil-borne fungal disease causes wilt, yellowing, and eventual death of the plant. Unfortunately, there is no cure for this disease, and infected plants should be removed immediately to prevent further infection.
Pests
Aphids: These tiny insects suck sap from the leaves, causing them to wilt and curl. To control aphids, wash them off with a strong jet of water or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider Mites: These arachnids cause yellow spots and webbing on the foliage, leading to discoloration and defoliation. To control spider mites, spray the plant with water to dislodge them, or apply an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Caterpillars: Common caterpillars that feed on tickseed include loopers and cutworms. These cause holes and defoliation on leaves. Hand-picking is an effective way to control these pests. You can also apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) to the plant to kill the caterpillars.
Overall, proactive care and early detection are critical for managing diseases and pests in Bidens borianiana. Regularly inspecting the plant, improving growing conditions, and proper maintenance can go a long way in keeping your plant healthy and pest-free.
