Bidens cernua L.
Bidens cernua L., commonly known as nodding beggartick, is a species of flowering plant in the aster family, Asteraceae. It is native to central and eastern North America, ranging from Ontario and Quebec to Florida, Texas, and Mexico.
Common Names
Bidens cernua L. is commonly known as nodding beggartick, nodding bur marigold, nodding beggar-ticks, and nodding-brush bur.
Appearance
Bidens cernua L. is an annual herbaceous plant that grows up to 60 cm tall and has a branching stem. The leaves are opposite, toothed, and roughly triangular or lance-shaped in outline. The flowers are yellow in color and are arranged in small heads, each with numerous ray flowers surrounding a central cluster of disc flowers. The fruits are narrow, needle-like, and have barbed awns that attach to clothing or animal fur.
Uses
Bidens cernua L. has been used medicinally by Native American tribes for a variety of ailments, including coughs, colds, and stomach problems. The plant has also been used to make a yellow dye. Additionally, Bidens cernua L. is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a food source for wildlife such as birds and insects.
Growth Conditions for Bidens Cernua L.
Bidens cernua L. or Nodding Bur-marigold is a herbaceous plant that can grow up to 1.5 m tall. It's commonly found in North America, particularly in the eastern and central parts of the United States. In order to grow a healthy Nodding Bur-marigold, careful consideration must be given to its growth conditions.
Light Requirements
Nodding Bur-marigold typically thrives in full to partial sunlight, and can tolerate a wide range of light intensities. However, it is recommended to provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth and flowering.
Temperature Requirements
Bidens cernua L. can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but typically prefers moderate to warm temperatures. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 18°C to 27°C. It can also tolerate temperatures as low as -15°C, but only for a short period.
Soil Requirements
Bidens cernua L. prefers moist, fertile soils that are rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, but it thrives in loamy or sandy soils with a pH between 5.0 to 7.5. It's important to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
Additionally, Nodding Bur-marigold grows well in areas with good drainage. It's also recommended to add organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, before planting to help improve soil fertility and water retention.
With the right growth conditions, Bidens cernua L. can grow into a beautiful and healthy plant that produces masses of yellow flowers, providing a stunning addition to any garden or outdoor space.
Cultivation Methods
Bidens cernua L. is a relatively easy plant to cultivate. It is an annual herb that prefers full sun to partial shade. The plant can be grown in well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It can be grown from seeds that are sown directly into the ground or in containers. The plant can also be propagated via cuttings.
Watering Needs
Bidens cernua L. requires moderate watering. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. The frequency of watering depends on the weather conditions. During hot and dry weather conditions, the plant may require more frequent watering.
Fertilization
Bidens cernua L. plants benefit from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. Applications should be made every four to six weeks during the growing season. Over-fertilizing the plant can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of bloom production.
Pruning
Bidens cernua L. requires minimal pruning. Deadheading the spent blooms can promote continuous bloom production. The removal of diseased or damaged foliage can help prevent the spread of diseases to healthy plant parts. Regular pinching can help keep the plant bushy and compact.
Propagation of Bidens cernua L.
Bidens cernua L. is commonly known as nodding beggarticks or bur marigold. It is an annual plant that belongs to the Asteraceae or sunflower family and is native to North America. Propagation of Bidens cernua can be done by seed and cuttings.
Seed Propagation
Bidens cernua can be propagated by seed, which is available in local nurseries or garden centers. It can also be collected from mature plants. Seed germination is relatively easy, and the success rate is high.
Seeds should be planted in well-drained and fertile soil after the last spring frost. It is important to keep the soil evenly moist until germination, which usually takes between 7-21 days. After the seedlings have developed their true leaves, they should be thinned to prevent competition for nutrients and space.
Cutting Propagation
Bidens cernua can also be propagated by softwood cuttings. This method is useful for creating new plants that are identical to the parent plant, ensuring that the same characteristics are preserved.
To take cuttings, select a healthy and vigorous stem from a mature plant and remove the leaves from the lower half of the stem. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-drained soil mixture. Water thoroughly and cover with a plastic bag to create a humid environment. The cutting should root in 2-3 weeks, after which the plastic bag can be removed.
Propagation of Bidens cernua through seed and cuttings is relatively easy and can help expand your garden. Following the appropriate guidelines for propagation ensures a higher success rate and promotes healthy and vigorous plants.
Disease and Pest Management for Bidens Cernua L.
Bidens cernua L., also known as Nodding Bur Marigold, is mainly affected by diseases caused by fungi and pests that attack the leaves and flowers. It is crucial to manage these diseases and pests to maintain the health and growth of the plant. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Bidens cernua L., along with ways to manage them:
Diseases
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It can cause wilting and yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. To manage this disease, remove the infected parts of the plant and spray with a fungicide containing potassium bicarbonate or neem oil.
Botrytis Blight: Botrytis blight is a fungal disease that affects the flowers and leaves of Bidens cernua L. It appears as gray, fuzzy growth on the flowers, stems, and leaves. It can cause the flowers to turn brown and wilt. To manage Botrytis blight, remove infected parts of the plant and ensure proper air circulation around the plant. Spray with a fungicide containing copper or sulfur.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They can cause stunted growth, wilting and yellowing of the leaves, and the formation of sticky honeydew on the leaves. To manage aphids, use a strong jet of water to wash them off the plant. You can also apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to the affected areas.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves, and a fine webbing can appear on the plant. To manage spider mites, remove the infected parts of the plant and ensure proper air circulation around the plant. Spray with a miticide containing neem oil or horticultural oil.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies that feed on the leaves of the plant. They can cause defoliation and stunted growth. To manage caterpillars, handpick them off the plant and remove any egg masses that you may find. You can also apply a biological insecticide containing Bacillus thuringiensis or spinosad to the affected areas.
By following the above methods, you can manage the diseases and pests that affect Bidens cernua L. and maintain the health and growth of your plant.
