Overview of Bidens chippii
Bidens chippii, commonly known as Chipps' Beggarticks, is a plant species belonging to the family Asteraceae. This species was first described in 2007 by Mesfin Tadesse and Mulugeta Woldemariam and is endemic to Ethiopia.
General Appearance
Bidens chippii is an herbaceous plant that typically reaches up to 60 to 90 centimeters in height. The plant's stem is erect, with green, simple, and opposite leaves that are lanceolate to elliptic in shape and covered with a fine layer of hair.
The flowers of Bidens chippii are small and yellow, with a solitary inflorescence at the end of the branches. The flowers appear in the spring and autumn months. Once fertilized, the flowers produce achenes, which are small, pointed, and covered with small hooks that adhere to clothing or animal fur, aiding in its dispersal.
Uses of Bidens chippii
Bidens chippii is primarily used for medicinal purposes in Ethiopia. The plant has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties and is utilized to treat gastrointestinal disorders, injuries, and infections. Additionally, the plant is used as an insecticide, and the leaves and stem are extracted and used to ward off insects from crops and livestock.
Bidens chippii is also an ornamental plant in gardens due to its attractive yellow flowers.
Light Requirements
Bidens chippii grows well in full sunlight or partial shade, but it prefers full sunlight for optimal growth. It is a plant that requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight per day, and it grows well in areas that receive at least 1000-1200 hours of sunlight per year.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for the growth of Bidens chippii is between 20°C to 30°C. The plant cannot tolerate cold temperatures, and frost can be harmful to the growth of the plant. The minimum temperature required for the growth of Bidens chippii is 16°C, and it can tolerate a maximum temperature of 35°C for short periods.
Soil Requirements
Bidens chippii prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The pH range for the growth of the plant is between 5.5 to 7.5. The plant can grow well in different types of soils such as sandy, clayey, and loamy soils. However, the plant requires adequate moisture for optimal growth.
Water Requirements
Bidens chippii requires moderate amounts of water for optimal growth. The plant cannot tolerate drought, and it requires regular watering to maintain the soil moisture level. At the same time, the plant cannot tolerate waterlogged soils, and it requires well-draining soils to prevent waterlogging.
Cultivation Methods for Bidens chippii
Bidens chippii is a semi-aquatic plant that grows well in boggy and wet soil conditions, making it perfect for cultivation in ponds or water gardens. The best way to cultivate this plant is to start with young plants, which can be obtained from nurseries specializing in water plants. Introduce the plants gently into the water and plant them on the edge of the pond. It is important to monitor the level of water in the pond frequently, as Bidens chippii needs a constant source of water, especially during hotter months.
Watering Needs
Bidens chippii requires constant access to water to thrive. This plant can survive in boggy soil, meaning you don't have to water it manually. However, in case of a significant depletion of water in the pond, it's necessary to supplement it with regular use of a garden hose. Also, it's recommended to safeguard the edges of your pond to prevent erosion.
Fertilization
Bidens chippii doesn't need a lot of fertilizer. The plant requires very little, if any fertilization, thanks to the nutrients present in regularly irrigated ponds. However, for better results and growth, you can apply a controlled-release fertilizer every spring. Never use more fertilizer than recommended to prevent undesirable outcomes like overgrowth of algae.
Pruning
Bidens chippii doesn't require pruning regularly, as the plant's growth cycle is in harmony with its environment. However, if some areas of the plant become overgrown or unsightly, you can trim them with sharp, clean tools. Do the pruning when the plant shows overheads in growth or has dead, yellowing foliage to increase sunlight penetration in and around the pond.
Propagation methods for Bidens chippii (M.B.Moss) Mesfin
Bidens chippii (M.B.Moss) Mesfin is a species of flowering plant in the family Asteraceae. It is commonly called the "Irish madwort" and is native to Ethiopia. Propagation of Bidens chippii can be done through various methods, including:
Seed propagation
The easiest way to propagate Bidens chippii is through seed propagation. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil in a warm and moist environment. They usually germinate within two weeks to a month. Once they have germinated, they can be transplanted into their permanent location.
Cutting propagation
Bidens chippii can also be propagated through cuttings. To do this, take a cutting of a stem that is about four inches long and remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone and then plant it in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in a warm and shaded location until new growth appears, which means the cutting has taken root. After that, it can be transplanted into its permanent location.
Division propagation
Bidens chippii can also be propagated through division, but it is not the preferred method. To do this, dig up the mature plant and carefully separate the roots into separate plants. Transplant each individual plant into its own pot or a prepared outdoor location.
Disease Management
Bidens chippii (M.B.Moss) Mesfin can be affected by various diseases that can cause damage to the plant. Some of the common diseases that might affect the plant include powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot.
The best way to manage powdery mildew is by ensuring that the plant is adequately watered and there is proper air circulation around the foliage. Using fungicides can also be effective in controlling the spread of the disease.
Leaf spot can be managed by ensuring that the plant is not overcrowded and any infected leaves are removed and disposed of. Additionally, fungicides can be applied to control the spread of the disease.
Root rot is caused by fungal pathogens that invade the roots and cause rotting. To manage this disease, it is crucial to avoid overwatering and ensure that soil is well-drained. Additionally, fungicides can be used to control the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Bidens chippii (M.B.Moss) Mesfin can be affected by various pests. Some of the common pests that might affect the plant include spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs.
Spider mites can be managed by using neem oil and insecticidal soaps. It is also important to ensure that the plant is regularly watered and not stressed as this can make it more susceptible to spider mite infestations.
Aphids and mealybugs can be controlled by using insecticidal soaps, neem oil, or horticultural oils. Removing any infected plant parts and ensuring that the plant is adequately fertilized can also help prevent pest infestations.
Regular monitoring of the plant for pest infestations and taking timely action can help protect the plant from further damage.
