Origin
Bidens ×dimidiata O. Deg. & Sherff ex Sherff is a hybrid species that results from the crossing of Bidens bipinnata and Bidens frondosa. The plant is endemic to North America and can be found in states such as Louisiana, Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Illinois, and Indiana.
Common Names
The plant Bidens ×dimidiata O. Deg. & Sherff ex Sherff is commonly known as the Devil's beggartick, Swamp marigold, Devil's sticktight, Spiny beggarticks, and Hairy beggarticks.
Uses
The plant Bidens ×dimidiata O. Deg. & Sherff ex Sherff is used for various purposes. Some Native American tribes used its roots to treat gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea, while others used it as a herbal remedy to treat headaches. The plant is also considered as a wildflower and is grown for its ornamental values in gardens and landscapes. Additionally, the plant is also used in some cultures as a food source, where its seeds are ground and mixed with flour to make bread.
General Appearance
Bidens ×dimidiata O. Deg. & Sherff ex Sherff is an annual or perennial herb that grows up to 36 inches tall. The plant has long branching stems that are green or red in color. The leaves of the plant are pinnately divided and can grow up to 10 inches in length. The flowers of the plant are small, yellow, and arranged in clusters at the end of the stem. The plant produces fruits that are burrs containing several hooked seeds which readily attach to clothing and animal fur.
Light Requirements
The Bidens ×dimidiata O. Deg. & Sherff ex Sherff plant typically requires partial to full sunlight exposure. They thrive in bright, indirect light, making them suitable for outdoor gardens or indoor placement near windows or under artificial grow lights.
Temperature Requirements
The Bidens ×dimidiata O. Deg. & Sherff ex Sherff plant is hardy in USDA zones 8 through 11. These plants prefer warmer temperatures, with an optimal range between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures below 50 degrees or above 90 degrees can stress the plant and cause damage.
Soil Requirements
The Bidens ×dimidiata O. Deg. & Sherff ex Sherff plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil pH levels but prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Adding compost or peat moss can help improve soil quality and drainage. It is sensitive to over-wetting, so it is essential to avoid standing water in the soil.
Cultivation Methods for Bidens ×dimidiata
Bidens ×dimidiata, commonly known as Chilean beggarticks, is an attractive plant that is easy to grow both indoors and outdoors. To cultivate it successfully, you should start by selecting an appropriate planting site with well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. You can propagate the plant from seeds or cuttings, and it will thrive in well-drained soil with acidic to neutral pH levels.
The plant requires full sun exposure for at least 6 hours per day to achieve its full potential. It is recommended to Plant the seeds at a depth of 1/8 inch and space them 2 inches apart. Provide light water daily and keep the soil moist. The seeds will sprout in 5 to 7 days. The plant requires a lot of attention and care during this phase.
Watering Needs of Bidens ×dimidiata
The watering needs of Bidens ×dimidiata are moderate to high. The plant requires regular watering to maintain its moisture and growth. Water the plant once or twice a week, or when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch. Incorporate mulch into the soil to help retain moisture and prevent the soil from drying out too quickly.
However, the plant does not like waterlogged soils. Ensure that the soil is well-drained and not overly saturated, as it can lead to root rot. As such, you should avoid watering the plant daily, but rather water thoroughly and as needed.
Fertilization of Bidens ×dimidiata
To achieve healthy and robust growth, it is recommended to fertilize Bidens ×dimidiata once a month. Choose a nutrient-rich fertilizer that is high in phosphorus, as it encourages the growth of healthy roots. The application should be well-spaced, and you can increase the frequency of feeding during the flowering season.
It is essential to follow the fertilization instructions carefully and avoid overfeeding the plant, as it can lead to the buildup of salts in the soil, which can damage the plant.
Pruning of Bidens ×dimidiata
Pruning helps to maintain the shape and health of Bidens ×dimidiata, and it is essential to perform it regularly. You should aim to remove dead and damaged stems or leaves to promote new growth. During the growing season, pruning can help to control the size of the plant, prevent it from becoming too leggy, or increase the number of flowers.
When pruning, use sharp and clean pruning shears and cut back to the nearest node on the stem. It is recommended to prune in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid excessive water loss through pruning cuts. Additionally, ensure that the plant is well-hydrated and healthy before pruning.
Propagation of Bidens ×dimidiata O. Deg. & Sherff ex Sherff
Bidens ×dimidiata O. Deg. & Sherff ex Sherff or the Arizona beggarticks is an herbaceous plant that is found in North America.
The plant can be propagated through seed, division, and cuttings.
Propagation through seeds
The seeds of Bidens ×dimidiata O. Deg. & Sherff ex Sherff can be collected after the flowering season when the seed heads have turned brown. The seeds should be sown directly in the soil in the spring. It is essential to keep the soil moist for the seeds to germinate. The plant will flower in the second year after sowing.
Propagation through division
Bidens ×dimidiata O. Deg. & Sherff ex Sherff can be propagated through division in the spring. The plant forms clumps that can be carefully lifted with a garden fork. The clumps should be divided into smaller portions, and each section should have a root and shoot. The divided sections should be planted at the same depth as the parent plant.
Propagation through cuttings
The Arizona beggarticks can be propagated through stem cuttings in the summer. Select a healthy stem and cut a 6-inch section. The leaves should be removed from the lower half of the cutting, and the stem should be dipped in rooting hormone. The cutting can be planted in a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix. The pot should be covered with a plastic bag to maintain humidity.
Propagation of Bidens ×dimidiata O. Deg. & Sherff ex Sherff through seeds, division, and cuttings is simple and can be done by amateur gardeners.
Disease and Pest Management for Bidens ×dimidiata O. Deg. & Sherff ex Sherff
Bidens ×dimidiata O. Deg. & Sherff ex Sherff, or commonly known as the Arizona beggarticks, is a sun-loving perennial plant that is resistant to many pests and diseases. However, like all plants, it can still be affected by certain issues. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Fungal Leaf Spot: This disease manifests as small, circular spots on the leaves, usually caused by the fungus Cercospora. To manage this disease, remove the infected leaves and destroy them. You can also use fungicides to prevent the spread of the disease.
Bacterial Blight: This disease can cause stunted growth, yellowing of the leaves, and wilting. It is caused by the bacterium Pseudomonas syringae. To manage bacterial blight, remove the infected parts and destroy them. You can also use copper-based fungicides to control its spread.
Mold: Excessive humidity can lead to mold growth on the plant's surface, manifesting as a white or grey-colored substance. To manage mold, remove the infected leaves and improve the airflow around the plant.
Pests
Spider Mites: These pests are tiny and can be difficult to spot without a magnifying glass. They can cause leaf discoloration and even death of the plant. To manage spider mites, spray the plants with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars, especially those of the beet armyworm, can cause extensive damage to the plant by eating the leaves and other parts. To manage caterpillars, remove them manually or use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticide.
Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can cause stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage aphids, wash the plant thoroughly with soapy water or spray it with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
By following these disease and pest management practices, you can keep your Bidens ×dimidiata O. Deg. & Sherff ex Sherff plant healthy and thriving.
