General Description
Bidens eatonii Fern. var. major Fassett is a perennial flowering plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is native to California, USA, and is commonly known as Eaton's tickseed sunflower, Eaton's stickleaf, or Eaton's bur-marigold. It can grow up to a height of 3 feet and spreads up to 2-3 feet wide. The plant produces small yellow flowers that bloom from July to September, followed by small fruits that often stick to clothing or fur due to their barbed seeds.
Uses
Bidens eatonii Fern. var. major Fassett has a variety of uses. Native American tribes, such as the Kumeyaay and the Pomo, reportedly used the plant to treat various ailments, such as dental pain, stomach pain, and swollen hands and feet. It has also been used as a natural dye for wool and other materials. In addition, the plant is sometimes used in native plant gardens as an ornamental and to attract pollinators.
General Appearance
Bidens eatonii Fern. var. major Fassett has green leaves that are deeply lobed and toothed. The stems and leaves are covered in small hairs. The plant produces small yellow flowers that are approximately 1 inch in diameter. It produces numerous fruits, each containing multiple small seeds with barbed bristles that can attach to clothing or fur. The plant has a sprawling growth habit and is often found in moist areas, such as near streams or in damp meadows.
Growth Conditions for Bidens eatonii Fern. var. major Fassett
Bidens eatonii Fern. var. major Fassett, commonly known as Eaton's Beggartick, is a perennial herbaceous plant known for its striking yellow flowers and attractive foliage. Here is a brief overview of the plant's typical growth conditions:
Light Requirements:
Bidens eatonii Fern. var. major Fassett needs full sunlight to grow well. The plant requires bright light for at least six hours a day to thrive. Direct exposure to sunlight helps the plant produce strong stems and abundant blooms. It is recommended to plant Eaton's Beggartick in an open area where it can receive ample sunlight without being obstructed by trees or buildings.
Temperature Requirements:
For optimum growth, Bidens eatonii Fern. var. major Fassett requires a warm climate. The plant is known to thrive in areas where temperatures are between 65-75°F (18-24°C). During the winter months, the plant prefers a temperature range of 55-60°F (13-16°C). Eaton's Beggartick is not frost-tolerant and will not survive in regions with freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements:
Bidens eatonii Fern. var. major Fassett prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH level for growing Eaton's Beggartick is between 6.0 and 7.5. It is best to use a good quality potting mix or loamy soil when growing the plant. To enhance the soil's fertility, you can also add compost or aged manure to the soil. Drainage is very important for the plant's root system, so make sure the soil is not waterlogged.
By providing the right conditions for Bidens eatonii Fern. var. major Fassett to grow, you can enjoy a gorgeous display of golden flowers in your garden or home.
Cultivation Methods for Bidens eatonii Fern. var. major Fassett
Bidens eatonii Fern. var. major Fassett is best grown in well-drained soils. It is commonly propagated by seed, which can be sown in the spring or fall. The soil must be moist but not waterlogged, and the plant should be placed in a location that receives full sunlight. The seeding depth should not exceed 1/8 inch to encourage healthy germination.
Watering Needs for Bidens eatonii Fern. var. major Fassett
Watering Bidens eatonii Fern. var. major Fasset should be done regularly, aiming to keep the soil evenly moist. It is important to avoid overwatering, as this may lead to root rot. The frequency of watering depends on the location's temperature, humidity, and rainfall levels. During extremely hot and dry weather, the plant may require additional watering to prevent wilting.
Fertilization for Bidens eatonii Fern. var. major Fassett
Bidens eatonii Fern. var. major Fassett does not require heavy feeding, but a balanced fertilizer may be added to the soil to enrich the plant's growth and performance. The best time to fertilize is in early spring or late winter before the emergence of new growth. To avoid overfertilizing, it is important to follow the recommended application rates, usually one tablespoon every six weeks.
Pruning of Bidens eatonii Fern. var. major Fassett
Pruning of the Bidens eatonii Fern. var. major Fassett is rarely necessary. However, if necessary, pruning should be done in early spring to stimulate healthy new growth. Deadheading the spent flowers during the growing season will also encourage the plant to rebloom and produce more flowers. Use disinfected pruning shears to minimize the transfer of diseases or pests when pruning.
Propagation of Bidens eatonii Fern. var. major Fassett
Bidens eatonii Fern. var. major Fassett can be propagated both through seed and vegetative means. Here are some detailed methods for propagating this plant:
Method 1: Seed propagation
The seeds of Bidens eatonii Fern. var. major Fassett can be collected from the ripe seed heads. These seeds need to be sown when they are fresh and have not yet dried out. Plant them in well-drained soil in a location that receives full sun. Cover them with approximately 1 cm of soil and keep them evenly moist until they germinate, which can take anywhere from 5 to 21 days. Once the seedlings have become established, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Method 2: Vegetative propagation
Bidens eatonii Fern. var. major Fassett can also be propagated through vegetative cuttings. Take cuttings with at least 2-3 nodes during the active growth period and about 5-6 cm long. Make sure to remove any flowers or buds and cut the leaves in half to reduce moisture loss. Place the cuttings in a sterile, well-draining soil mix and keep them consistently moist and out of direct sunlight. They can be covered with plastic or a clear bag to maintain humidity. After about 4-6 weeks, the cuttings should have rooted and new growth will appear. Once they have established a good root system, they can be transplanted into a growing medium.
Disease and Pest Management for Bidens eatonii Fern. var. major Fassett
Bidens eatonii Fern. var. major Fassett, commonly known as Eaton's Beggarticks, is a beautiful perennial species that can be grown both in sunny and partly shaded areas. To maintain optimal growth and prevent adverse effects, it is essential to be aware of potential diseases and pests that could affect this plant and take proper measures to manage them.
Common Diseases
One of the common diseases that affect Eaton's Beggarticks is Phytophthora root rot. This condition is caused by a fungus-like organism that affects the roots and causes yellowing and wilting of the leaves. The best way to manage this disease is to avoid overwatering and ensure proper drainage. Additionally, planting the plant in well-drained soil and avoiding overcrowding can help prevent the spread of the disease.
Another disease that Bidens eatonii Fern. var. major Fassett is susceptible to is powdery mildew. This fungal disease causes a white powdery coating on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove affected leaves immediately, increase air circulation around the plant, and avoid overhead watering.
Common Pests
Eaton's Beggarticks can also be prone to pests, including whiteflies, aphids, spider mites, and thrips. These pests can cause damage by sucking plant juices and causing yellowing of leaves. To manage pest infestations, it is essential to maintain good plant health through proper irrigation and fertilization. Additionally, using insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils can help control infestations. Introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings are also effective for pest management.
Final thoughts
Proper disease and pest management is crucial for maintaining optimal growth and health of Bidens eatonii Fern. var. major Fassett. By following the suggestions mentioned above, you can effectively manage diseases and pests that could impact the plant's growth and longevity.
