Origin and Common Names
Bidens cernua L. var. dentata (Nutt.) Boivin is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the aster family, Asteraceae. It is commonly known as nodding beggarticks or nodding bur-marigold and is native to North America, particularly the eastern and central regions of the continent.
General Appearance
The plant typically grows up to a height of 3 feet and covers an area of up to 1.5 feet. The stems are hairy, rough and grooved. The leaves are arranged oppositely on the stem, with each leaflet having three to five sharp-toothed edges. The flowers are yellow in color with five petals, and are small in size. They are arranged in corymbs, which are clusters of flowers with the oldest flowers in the center and the youngest on the outside.
Uses
Bidens cernua L. var. dentata (Nutt.) Boivin has a variety of uses. Its leaves and roots have long been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments like fever, diarrhea, and rheumatism. The plant is also known for its high content of antioxidants, making it a popular ingredient in natural therapies. Additionally, it is used in landscaping, and is often found growing in gardens and parks as ornamental plants.
Growth Conditions for Bidens cernua L. var. dentata (Nutt.) Boivin
Bidens cernua L. var. dentata (Nutt.) Boivin, commonly known as nodding beggartick or nodding bur-marigold, is a vigorous annual plant that is native to North America. It is widely distributed across the United States, and it is often found growing in marshes, swamps, and along the banks of streams and ponds. The plant produces bright yellow flowers that bloom between July and October, attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. To ensure healthy growth and vibrant blooms, the following growth conditions must be met:
Light Requirements
Bidens cernua L. var. dentata prefers full sun to partial shade ideal for growing, but it can tolerate some shade. The plant requires a minimum of six hours of sunlight each day to thrive. In areas with very hot summers, it will benefit from some afternoon shade to prevent wilting.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in warm temperatures ranging from 60 to 85°F. It is an ideal plant for USDA hardiness zones 5-11. It is frost-sensitive and will not tolerate freezing temperatures or frost. In cooler climates, it can be grown as an annual in the summer months or as a winter annual in milder climates.
Soil Requirements
Bidens cernua L. var. dentata prefers rich, moist, and well-draining soil. However, it tolerates wet soils better than other plants and is adaptable to a range of soil conditions from sand to heavy clay. It can grow in pH levels from acidic to alkaline but prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH range from 6.0- 6.5. Adding organic matter like compost or manure to the soil before planting can enhance its growth and blooming.
By providing Bidens cernua L. var. dentata with adequate light, proper temperatures, and well-draining soil, you can foster healthy growth and gorgeous blooming.
Cultivation Methods
Bidens cernua L. var. dentata (Nutt.) Boivin, commonly known as Nodding Beggar-tick, is a herbaceous perennial plant that requires well-draining soil and full sunlight to grow. The plant thrives in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 10 and needs a warm and humid environment to grow.
You can propagate the plant through seeds or cuttings and plant them in a well-prepared garden bed or container. Since the plant grows up to 3 feet tall, ensure that you space the plants about 1 to 2 feet apart.
Watering Needs
Nodding Beggar-tick requires moderate watering, especially during dry spells. Water the plant once a week or when the soil is dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering the plant as it may cause root rot.
Ensure that your watering pattern does not lead to waterlogging as it increases the chances of fungal growth, which may harm the plant.
Fertilization
Bidens cernua L. var. dentata (Nutt.) Boivin requires soil that is rich in organic matter, so an application of compost or well-rotted manure once a year is beneficial for the plant. You can also use a balanced fertilizer every four weeks to encourage healthy growth and blooming.
Avoid fertilizing the plant during winter or times of dormancy.
Pruning
The plant requires pruning to control its size and encourage bushier growth. You can prune Nodding Beggar-tick after the blooming period, which is usually in late summer or early autumn.
Use a sharp and clean pair of pruning shears and ensure that you cut the plant about 2 to 3 inches above the ground to encourage fresh growth. You can also deadhead the plant by removing spent flowers to encourage re-blooming and a tidier appearance.
Propagation of Bidens cernua L. var. dentata (Nutt.) Boivin
Bidens cernua L. var. dentata (Nutt.) Boivin, commonly known as Nodding beggar-ticks, is a North American native plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is a herbaceous perennial plant that produces small yellow flowers, which bloom from June to October. The plant prefers moist soils and partial shade. Propagation is an easy task for the nodding beggar-ticks and it can be done in various ways.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagating nodding beggar-ticks using seeds is the most common method. The seeds are tiny and can be collected in late summer or fall when they are mature. Clean and store the seeds in a dry and cool place for later use. Sow the seeds in the early spring in seed-starting trays filled with moist potting soil, and keep them in a warm and brightly lit place. Once the seedlings reach a height of 2-3 inches, they can be transplanted to their permanent location in the garden.
Propagation by Division
Dividing mature nodding beggar-ticks is another method of propagation. Divide the plant in the early spring or fall when the plant is still dormant. Gently dig up the plant and tease apart the clumps into smaller sections, making sure each section has a good root system. Transplant the divided clumps into their permanent location and water them thoroughly.
Propagation by Cuttings
Bidens cernua L. var. dentata (Nutt.) Boivin can also be propagated by stem cuttings. Take 3-4 inch long cuttings from new growth in the spring or early summer, making sure each cutting has a few leaves and nodes. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant them in potting soil. Keep the soil moist and cover the pot with a plastic bag to maintain humidity. After 3-4 weeks, the cuttings should have roots, and they can be transplanted to their permanent location in the garden.
Propagation of nodding beggar-ticks is easy and can be done using seeds, division, and stem cuttings. With proper care, the new plants will grow well and produce beautiful yellow flowers.
Disease Management
Bidens cernua L. var. dentata (Nutt.) Boivin, commonly known as "nodding beggarticks" or "pitchfork weed," is susceptible to several diseases that can cause significant damage to the plant. The following are some of the common diseases that affect this species:
- Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a powdery white coating on the leaves and stems of the plant. Infected leaves may also curl and become distorted. To manage powdery mildew, apply fungicides that contain sulfur, neem oil, or potassium bicarbonate. Ensure proper plant spacing to promote good air circulation.
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a bacterial or fungal disease that causes small, circular spots on the leaves. As the disease progresses, the spots may enlarge and turn brown. To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy infected leaves and apply fungicides containing copper or mancozeb.
- Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots and can cause wilting, yellowing, and stunting of the plant. To prevent root rot, ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering the plant. Remove and destroy infected plants.
Pest Management
In addition to diseases, Bidens cernua L. var. dentata (Nutt.) Boivin is also susceptible to pests that can cause significant damage. The following are some of the common pests that affect this species:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant. Infected leaves may curl and become distorted, and the plant may become stunted. To manage aphids, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong stream of water or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Whiteflies: Whiteflies are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant and can cause leaf yellowing and distortion. To manage whiteflies, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil or introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings.
Regular monitoring of the plant is essential to detect pest and disease problems early. Early intervention can prevent significant damage and increase the chances of successful management.
