Overview
Bidens coronata (L.) Britt. var. trichosperma (Michx.) Fern. is a flowering plant species in the Asteraceae family, commonly known as hairy-fruited beggarticks or crowned beggarticks.
Origin
The plant is native to North America and is found in the eastern and central parts of the United States, from Maine to Florida and west to Texas.
Appearance
The hairy-fruited beggarticks is an herbaceous annual that typically grows to a height of 30-60 cm. The plant bears numerous narrow and pointed leaves that are about 5 cm long and 1 cm wide. The stems are typically hairy, especially on the upper portions, and can be reddish in color.
The plant produces yellow flowers that develop into cylindrical or oval fruits that are cone-shaped and hairy. The fruits are about 5 mm long and are covered with hooked bristles, which allow them to attach to clothing and animal fur, aiding in their dispersal.
Uses
Bidens coronata var. trichosperma has been used in traditional medicine for various ailments, including colds, stomachaches, and dysentery. The plant is also favored by some wildlife, including birds that feed on the seeds and insects that visit the flowers.
The plant is sometimes cultivated as an ornamental and can be grown from seed in a sunny location with well-draining soil. However, the plant can become invasive in some areas and may need to be controlled in order to prevent it from spreading too much.
Light Requirements
Bidens coronata (L.) Britt. var. trichosperma (Michx.) Fern. typically prefers full sunlight exposure and requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. It can tolerate some shade but prolonged periods of shade can negatively affect plant growth and development.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Bidens coronata (L.) Britt. var. trichosperma (Michx.) Fern. is between 60 to 80°F (15 to 27°C). It can survive in temperatures as low as 40°F (5°C) and as high as 95°F (35°C), but extreme temperatures may cause plant stress and reduce growth rate.
Soil Requirements
Bidens coronata (L.) Britt. var. trichosperma (Michx.) Fern. prefers moist, well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, from sandy to clay soils, but performs best in loamy soils. Regular watering is necessary to keep the soil consistently moist, but excessive watering can lead to waterlogged soil and root rot.
Cultivation methods
Bidens coronata (L.) Britt. var. trichosperma (Michx.) Fern. is a hardy, annual plant that grows best in well-drained, fertile soil. It prefers full sun to partial shade, and needs to be protected from frost. It is commonly grown from seed and can be started indoors or directly sown in the garden after the last frost date.
Watering needs
Watering requirements for Bidens coronata (L.) Britt. var. trichosperma (Michx.) Fern. are moderate to high. It requires consistent moisture to thrive, but care must be taken not to overwater as it can lead to root rot. Water deeply once or twice a week depending on the weather conditions and the soil's ability to hold moisture. It is important to keep the foliage dry to prevent fungal diseases from developing.
Fertilization
Bidens coronata (L.) Britt. var. trichosperma (Michx.) Fern. benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer or a slow-release fertilizer according to the manufacturer's instructions. Fertilize every two to three weeks during the growing season, starting with a modest amount of fertilizer, and gradually increasing as the plant grows larger.
Pruning
Pruning Bidens coronata (L.) Britt. var. trichosperma (Michx.) Fern. is not necessary, but it can be helpful to keep the plant healthy and attractive. Deadheading spent flowers can encourage the plant to produce more blooms. Pinching back the tips can promote a fuller, bushier appearance, and prevent the plant from getting too leggy. Prune any damaged or diseased branches as soon as possible.
Propagation of Bidens coronata (L.) Britt. var. trichosperma (Michx.) Fern.
Bidens coronata (L.) Britt. var. trichosperma (Michx.) Fern, commonly known as tall beggarticks, can be propagated through various methods. The following are some effective propagation methods:
Seed Propagation
Seeds can be collected from mature plants and sown directly in the soil during the spring season. Prior to sowing, the seeds should be stratified for a month by keeping them in a moist and cool environment. The seeds will germinate in 10-14 days, and after 2-3 months, the seedlings should be transplanted to their permanent location.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings of Bidens coronata (L.) Britt. var. trichosperma (Michx.) Fern can also be used for propagation. Select healthy and non-flowering shoots and cut them from the parent plant. The cuttings should be around 6-8 inches long and should have a few leaves. Dip the cuttings in a rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and place the cuttings in a warm and shaded location. The cuttings should root in 2-3 weeks and can be transplanted into their permanent location after 2-3 months.
Division
Another propagation method for Bidens coronata (L.) Britt. var. trichosperma (Michx.) Fern is through division. This method is best done in the spring when the plant is actively growing. Dig up the entire plant and gently separate it into smaller clumps while taking care not to damage the roots. Replant the smaller clumps in a well-draining soil mix and keep the soil moist until new growth appears.
These propagation methods are relatively simple and effective, and can result in healthy and vigorous plants. With proper care and attention, Bidens coronata (L.) Britt. var. trichosperma (Michx.) Fern can be easily propagated for garden or landscape use.
Disease and Pest Management for Bidens coronata (L.) Britt. var. trichosperma (Michx.) Fern.
Bidens coronata (L.) Britt. var. trichosperma (Michx.) Fern. is a plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant species can experience various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and yield. Here are some of the common diseases and pests and how to manage them effectively.
Diseases
Powdery Mildew
- This fungal disease manifests as a powdery growth on the plant's leaves, flowers, and stems.
- Use of fungicides such as sulfur and copper can help control powdery mildews. Apply as per the manufacturer's instructions.
- Ensure your plants have adequate space and airflow to reduce humidity and prevent the disease's spread.
Damping-off
- This fungal disease is caused by soil-borne fungi and affects the plant's roots.
- Use of chemical fungicides, seed treatment, and crop rotation can help control damping-off.
- Ensure your plants aren't planted in water-logged soils and not overwatered to avoid the disease.
Pests
Aphids
- These are small insects that feed on plants' sap, leaving them distorted and stunted.
- Use of sticky traps and insecticides such as neem oil, insecticidal soap, and pyrethrum can help control aphids.
- Ensure your plants are not overcrowded and properly nourished to help resist the pests.
Spider Mites
- Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on plant sap, leaving yellow specks on the leaves.
- Use of insecticides such as neem oil and insecticidal soap can help control spider mites.
- Ensure your plants are adequately watered to discourage spider mites.
Leafhoppers
- Leafhoppers are small, wedge-shaped insects that feed on plants, leaving pale speckled leaves.
- Use of insecticides such as neem oil, insecticidal soap, and pyrethrum can help control leafhoppers.
- Ensure your plants are adequately watered and have adequate fertilizer to resist leafhopper damage.
By using the above measures, you can help keep your Bidens coronata (L.) Britt. var. trichosperma (Michx.) Fern. healthy and happy while reducing the risk of diseases and pests.
