Overview:
Bidens frondosa L. is a species of flowering plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is commonly known as devil's beggartick, devil's pitchfork, sticktights, or common beggartick. This plant is native to North America and can be found in various habitats including meadows, waste areas, fields, and disturbed soils.
Appearance:
Bidens frondosa L. is an annual plant with a slender, grooved, and branched stem that can grow up to 6 feet tall. The leaves are alternate, pinnately divided with pointed tips, and have a toothed margin. The plant produces small, yellow flowers that bloom from July to October. The fruits are narrow, elongated, and covered with hooked bristles that easily stick to fur, clothing, or feathers.
Uses:
Bidens frondosa L. has been used medicinally by indigenous peoples for centuries to treat a variety of ailments. The leaves and roots are used to make teas, poultices, or infusions that can be used to alleviate fever, respiratory problems, headaches, and digestive issues. The plant also contains anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties and has been shown to potentially have antitumor effects. Additionally, the plant is used in alternative medicine to treat skin irritations, wounds, and stings.
Light requirements
Bidens frondosa L. requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade will result in leggy and weak stems.
Temperature requirements
Bidens frondosa L. is a hardy plant and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, it prefers a moderate to warm climate, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 29°C (65°F to 85°F). It can also tolerate frost and can survive in temperatures as low as -10°C (14°F).
Soil requirements
Bidens frondosa L. prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soil types but performs best in loamy soil with a pH between 4.5 to 7.5. The plant cannot tolerate waterlogged soil and can suffer from root rot if the soil is not well-draining. Regular organic fertilization can also improve its growth performance.
Cultivation Methods
Bidens frondosa L. is a relatively low maintenance plant that grows best in full sun but can handle partial shade. It prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. The soil should be about six to eight inches deep to allow for adequate root growth. Plant the seeds in the spring, after any threat of frost has passed, at a depth of approximately one-eighth of an inch. Space the seeds about six inches apart.
Watering Needs
Bidens frondosa L. prefers moist soil, so regular watering is necessary. Water the plant to a depth of about one inch once a week, and increase the frequency during periods of drought. However, it's important not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Feed Bidens frondosa L. with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer once every six weeks during the growing season. Make sure to follow the instructions on the package and avoid using too much fertilizer, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and fewer flowers.
Pruning
Bidens frondosa L. does not require much pruning, but it's essential to deadhead the flowers regularly. This process involves removing the spent flowers to encourage further blooming. It's also necessary to remove any damaged or diseased foliage. Cut back the entire plant to a few inches above the ground in the fall before the first frost to help the plant thrive the following year.
Propagation of Bidens frondosa L.
Bidens frondosa L., commonly known as beggar-tick or devil's sticktight, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. This North American native plant is an annual or short-lived perennial that grows up to 5 feet tall and produces yellow flowers. It is popularly grown for its ornamental value, as well as for medicinal and edible purposes.
Propagation methods
Bidens frondosa L. can be propagated by various methods, such as seed, cuttings, and division. Here are the details of each method:
Seed propagation:
Seeds of Bidens frondosa L. should be sown in late spring or early summer, directly in the soil. The soil should be moist, well-drained, and fertile. The seeds should be sown at a depth of ¼ inch and spaced about 6 inches apart. They will germinate in approximately 7-10 days, and the young seedlings should be thinned to a spacing of about 10-12 inches apart when they are 2-3 inches tall. The plants will flower from mid-summer to fall.
Cutting propagation:
Bidens frondosa L. can also be propagated by stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from healthy plants during the summer months, when the plant is actively growing. The cutting should be about 4-6 inches long, with at least two or three nodes. Pinch off the lower leaves, leaving only the top few leaves. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in a warm, bright location. After a few weeks, the cutting should develop roots. You can transplant the cutting into a larger container or into the ground once it has established roots.
Division propagation:
Bidens frondosa L. can also be propagated by division. Divide the plant in early spring, before new growth begins. Dig up the plant and separate the roots into several sections. Replant the sections in well-draining soil, water thoroughly, and keep the soil moist until new growth appears.
These are the propagation methods for Bidens frondosa L. Choose the method that suits your needs and resources and enjoy growing this beautiful plant.
Disease Management
Bidens frondosa L. is susceptible to several diseases. Below are some of the most common diseases and their management:
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that affects Bidens frondosa L. Symptoms include a white powdery film on the leaves, stunted growth, and yellowing leaves. To manage powdery mildew, remove and destroy all infected leaves and ensure adequate air circulation by spacing the plants properly. You can also apply fungicides that contain potassium bicarbonate or neem oil.
Downy Mildew
Downy mildew is another fungal disease that affects Bidens frondosa L. It causes yellowing leaves, distorted growth, and a grey/white mold on the underside of the leaves. To manage downy mildew, ensure proper drainage and avoid high humidity. You can also apply a fungicide that contains copper, mancozeb, or phosphorous acid.
Pest Management
Bidens frondosa L. can also be affected by various pests. Below are some of the most common pests and suggestions on how to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are tiny insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems of Bidens frondosa L. They usually appear in large numbers and can cause stunted growth and yellowing leaves. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to knock them off. You can also apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies. They feed on the leaves of Bidens frondosa L. and can cause significant damage. To manage caterpillars, inspect the plants regularly and remove them by hand. You can also apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) or spinosad.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny insects that feed on the leaf tissue, causing yellowing and brown spots on the leaves. They are common in dry conditions and can reproduce quickly. To manage spider mites, increase humidity levels by misting the plants regularly. You can also apply neem oil or insecticidal soap.
