Introduction:
Bidens cinereoides Sherff, commonly known as gray-bracted bur-marigold, is a herbaceous native flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family.Origin and Distribution:
This perennial plant is native to North America, where it is found in various regions, including the Great Plains, Mexico, and the southwestern United States.Common Names:
The Bidens cinereoides Sherff is commonly known as gray-bracted bur-marigold, tobacco bur-marigold, and coyote snakeroot.Appearance:
The gray-bracted bur-marigold plant typically reaches a height of about 24 inches and produces oblong-shaped, grayish-green leaves that can reach up to 6 inches in length. The plant produces yellow flowers that bloom in the late summer and fall.Uses:
The Bidens cinereoides Sherff plant is used in traditional medicine for the treatment of various ailments, including skin irritation, toothaches, and coughs. Additionally, it is used as a natural insect repellent. The plant also provides food and habitat for various insects, including bees and butterflies. It can also be used for ornamental purposes, and is commonly planted in native gardens and landscapes. In conclusion, the Bidens cinereoides Sherff or gray-bracted bur-marigold is a native plant that has been used for centuries due to its various medicinal properties. Additionally, it adds beauty to gardens and landscapes and provides essential habitat and food for a variety of insects.Growth Conditions for Bidens cinereoides Sherff
Bidens cinereoides Sherff, also known as Arizona beggartick, is a perennial herbaceous flower that is native to the southwestern United States. To cultivate this plant successfully, it is important to provide the following growth conditions:
Light Requirements
Bidens cinereoides Sherff grows best in full sun to partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day to stimulate its growth and flowering. If grown in too much shade, the plant may become leggy and produce fewer flowers.
Temperature Requirements
Bidens cinereoides Sherff prefers warm and dry climates. It is highly tolerant of heat and drought, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping. The plant can grow in USDA Hardiness Zones 7 through 11 and can withstand winter temperatures down to 10°F. However, prolonged exposure to temperatures below 20°F can damage the plant.
Soil Requirements
Bidens cinereoides Sherff grows well in well-drained soils with a slightly acidic pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It is highly adaptable to different soil types, including sandy, loamy, and rocky soils. However, it cannot tolerate soils that are poorly drained or waterlogged, which can lead to root rot and other diseases. The addition of organic matter to the soil can improve its fertility and water-holding capacity.
Cultivation Methods
Bidens cinereoides Sherff, commonly known as Gray Beggarticks, can be grown in both outdoor and indoor environments. Ideally, the plant thrives in well-draining soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Ensure that the area of cultivation receives plenty of bright, indirect sunlight.
Watering Needs
Bidens cinereoides Sherff requires moderate watering- keep the top layer of the soil moist. Take care not to overwater, as it causes root rot and other diseases. The plant is drought tolerant once established and can enhance the plant’s bloom quality.
Fertilization
Feed the Gray Beggarticks twice a month with a balanced fertilizer that contains equal proportions of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. During the growing season, apply a liquid fertilizer, while during the dormant phase, use a slow-release fertilizer. Ensure that the plant is in good health before applying any fertilizer.
Pruning
Pruning Bidens cinereoides Sherff helps to promote a more compact and bushy growth, consequently improving the plant’s overall appearance. Deadheading spent flowers, removing leggy stems, and cutting back the plant's growth by one-third are some of the pruning methods to apply. The plant can come back stronger after pruning, producing more abundant and vibrant blooms.
Propagation of Bidens Cinereoides Sherff
Bidens cinereoides Sherff, commonly known as graymarsh beggarticks, is a perennial plant species that belongs to the family of Compositae. It is native to North America and can grow up to 3 feet tall with small yellow flowers. One of the ways to propagate this plant is by seed.
Propagation by Seed
The easiest and most common way to propagate Bidens cinereoides Sherff is by seed. The ideal time to sow the seeds is during the fall or early spring. First, collect the seeds from the plant using a pair of scissors or pruning shears. Make sure to collect mature seeds only.
Next, prepare a seed tray and fill it with well-draining soil. The soil should be moist but not saturated. Sow the seeds on the surface of the soil and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Water the tray gently with a misting bottle or a watering can with a fine nozzle.
Place the tray in a warm and bright location, but avoid direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist by misting it regularly. Germination should occur within 2-3 weeks. Once the seedlings are large enough, transplant them into individual pots.
Bidens cinereoides Sherff can also be propagated by stem cuttings. However, this method is more challenging and requires more skills and experience in horticulture.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Choose a healthy stem that is free from any disease or pests. Cut a 4-6 inch section of the stem using a sharp and clean cutting tool. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem and dip it in rooting hormone powder. This will improve the plant's chances of rooting successfully.
Prepare a pot with well-draining soil and make a hole in the center using a pencil or a similar tool. Insert the cutting into the soil and water it lightly. Cover the plant with a plastic bag or a propagator to maintain humidity levels. Place the pot in a warm and bright location, but avoid direct sunlight.
Check the cutting regularly for progress. Within several weeks, you should see new growth indicating that the cutting has taken root. Once the plant is established, transplant it into a larger pot or into the garden.
Propagation of Bidens cinereoides Sherff can be a rewarding experience for gardeners. Whether by seed or stem cuttings, the plant can easily propagate and produce beautiful yellow flowers.
Disease and Pest Management for Bidens cinereoides Sherff
Bidens cinereoides Sherff, commonly known as Gray Beggarticks, is a small, flowering plant that belongs to the sunflower family. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions, but like all plants, it is susceptible to disease and pest infestations. In this article, we will discuss the common diseases and pests that affect Bidens cinereoides Sherff and suggest ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Bidens cinereoides Sherff is susceptible to a few diseases, such as:
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It can stunt the growth of the plant, reduce yields, and even kill the plant.
- Pythium root rot: This disease is caused by the Pythium fungus, which attacks the roots of the plant. It can cause wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth, and eventually kill the plant.
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease affects the leaves and stems of the plant. It causes brown, sunken lesions on the leaves, which can lead to defoliation and reduced yields.
Disease Management
To manage these diseases, follow these tips:
- Prevention: Keep the plant healthy by providing proper watering and fertilization. Avoid overhead watering, as wet leaves can promote disease growth. Provide good air circulation around the plant.
- Cultural controls: Remove infected plant debris and destroy it. Avoid planting susceptible plants in the same area where the disease occurred. Rotate crops regularly.
- Chemical control: Apply fungicides that are labeled for use on Bidens cinereoides Sherff. Follow the instructions on the label, and apply the fungicide in early morning or late evening when the temperature is cool and calm.
Common Pests
Bidens cinereoides Sherff is also susceptible to some pests, such as:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects feed on the sap from the plant, causing it to weaken and become distorted. They can also transmit plant viruses.
- Spider mites: These arachnids suck the sap from the leaves of the plant, causing it to become discolored and stippled. They can be difficult to control.
- Whiteflies: These small, winged insects feed on the sap from the plant. They can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves, and can also transmit plant viruses.
Pest Management
To manage these pests, follow these tips:
- Prevention: Keep the plant healthy by providing proper watering and fertilization. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can attract pests. Remove any diseased or infested plant debris promptly.
- Mechanical controls: Use a strong stream of water to dislodge small insect pests, like aphids and spider mites. Use sticky traps to catch flying insects, like whiteflies.
- Chemical control: Apply insecticides that are labeled for use on Bidens cinereoides Sherff. Follow the instructions on the label, and apply the insecticide in early morning or late evening when the temperature is cool and calm.
By following these tips, you can help prevent and manage disease and pest infestations on Bidens cinereoides Sherff, and keep it healthy and beautiful.
