Overview
Bidens gracilior (O.Hoffm.) Sherff var. ukerewensis Sherff is a species of flowering plant in the family Asteraceae. It is native to Tanzania in East Africa and is commonly known as the Ukerewe Island beggarticks.Description
Bidens gracilior var. ukerewensis is an annual herb that grows up to 50 cm tall. It has slender, branched stems that are sparsely hairy, and sometimes reddish in color. The leaves are opposite, pinnately lobed, and up to 10 cm long. The flowers are small, yellow, and arranged in heads (capitula). The fruit is an achene that is 5-7 mm long, with two small barbs (awns) at the top.Uses
In Tanzania, Bidens gracilior var. ukerewensis is used in traditional medicine as a remedy for a variety of ailments, including fever, coughs, and stomach problems. The plant is also used as a source of fuel and fiber, and the leaves are sometimes eaten as a vegetable.Cultivation
Bidens gracilior var. ukerewensis is easily grown from seed and is adapted to a wide range of soil types. It prefers full sun to light shade and regular watering. The plant is not frost-tolerant and is best grown in climates with mild winters.Light Requirements
Bidens gracilior var. ukerewensis preferes to grow in full sun or partial shade. It can adapt to various light conditions, but excessive shade can hinder its growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in warm to hot temperatures, typically between 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit may cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Bidens gracilior var. ukerewensis prefers well-draining soils with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. In general, the plant grows well in sandy loam soil that is rich in organic matter and nutrients. It can also tolerate occasional periods of drought, so long as it is planted in well-drained soils and its water needs are met.
Cultivation of Bidens Gracilior (O.Hoffm.) Sherff Var. Ukerewensis Sherff
Bidens gracilior (O.Hoffm.) Sherff var. ukerewensis Sherff, commonly known as the "Bahama Beggarticks," is a beautiful plant that can provide an excellent addition to your garden. Here are some guidelines to help you cultivate it effectively.
Watering Needs
Bahama Beggarticks requires regular watering to grow optimally. During the growing season, always ensure that the soil remains moist, but not soaking wet. The soil should be damp, but not waterlogged. Always check the soil moisture level regularly and adjust the watering schedule as necessary. During winter, reduce watering but ensure that the soil does not dry completely.
Fertilization
For optimal growth, provide Bahama Beggarticks with balanced fertilization. Use a slow-release fertilizer once in every three months during the growing season. Alternatively, you can use liquid fertilizer every two weeks throughout the growing season. However, be careful not to over-fertilize the plant, as it may cause excessive growth and interfere with its beauty.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Bahama Beggarticks. However, if you notice any dead, diseased, or damaged stems, prune them immediately. Regularly trimming the plant can also help to encourage bushier growth, especially when it becomes leggy. Ensure that you use sharp and clean pruning tools to avoid spreading infections and diseases.
Overall, Bidens gracilior (O.Hoffm.) Sherff var. ukerewensis Sherff is easy to cultivate, and its vibrant yellow flowers and attractive foliage can add life to any garden space. By following the watering, fertilization, and pruning tips outlined above, you can successfully grow and care for this plant.
Propagation of Bidens Gracilior var. Ukerewensis Sherff
Bidens gracilior var. ukerewensis Sherff is a herbaceous plant species that belongs to the family Asteraceae. The plant is commonly propagated by seeds, root cuttings, or stem cuttings.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Bidens gracilior var. ukerewensis Sherff are small, brown, and oblong in shape. They can be propagated by sowing them directly into the soil, or by starting them in pots or trays indoors. The best time for sowing seeds is during the springtime.
To sow seeds directly into the soil, prepare the planting area by loosening the soil and removing any debris or weeds. Make shallow furrows in the soil and sprinkle the seeds evenly. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and water gently. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Seedlings should emerge within two to three weeks.
To start seeds indoors, fill seed-starting trays or pots with a good quality potting mix. Plant the seeds about 1/4 inch deep and water thoroughly. Place the trays or pots in a warm, bright location but out of direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Seedlings should emerge within two to three weeks.
Root Cutting Propagation
The root cuttings of Bidens gracilior var. ukerewensis Sherff can be used to propagate the plant during the dormant season. The best time for root cuttings is during the wintertime.
To propagate using root cuttings, dig up the parent plant when it is dormant. Look for roots that are about pencil-thickness and cut them into 2-4 inch sections. Plant the sections horizontally in a good quality potting mix and water thoroughly. Place the pots in a bright, cool location. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. New growth should emerge within four to six weeks.
Stem Cutting Propagation
Stem cuttings of Bidens gracilior var. ukerewensis Sherff can also be used to propagate the plant during the growing season.
To propagate using stem cuttings, select a healthy stem from the parent plant that is about 4-6 inches long. Strip the leaves from the lower half of the stem and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the stem in a good quality potting mix and water thoroughly. Place the pot in a warm, bright location but out of direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. New growth should emerge within four to six weeks.
Propagation of Bidens gracilior var. ukerewensis Sherff can be an easy process when using the right techniques. Regardless of the method you choose, always use a good quality potting mix, keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and provide the plant with adequate sunlight or shade to ensure successful propagation.
Disease Management
Bidens gracilior var. ukerewensis is susceptible to several diseases that can cause severe damage if not managed properly. Common diseases affecting the plant include:
- Leaf spot: a fungal disease that causes the formation of dark brown spots on leaves. The disease can spread rapidly and defoliate the plant if left untreated.
- Root rot: a disease caused by fungal pathogens that attack the roots of the plant, causing them to rot and die. Infected plants show stunted growth and yellowing of leaves.
- Powdery mildew: a fungal infection that causes the formation of a white powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. Infected plants exhibit poor growth and reduced yields.
To manage these diseases, it is recommended to:
- Ensure proper sanitation practices are followed, which include removing and destructing infected plant residues and avoiding excess watering.
- Use resistant cultivars when planting and maintaining the plant to reduce the risk of disease occurrence.
- Employ fungicidal treatments incorporating chemicals such as copper hydroxide and mancozeb solutions applied according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Pest Management
Bidens gracilior var. ukerewensis can attract pests that cause varying damage to the plant. Common pests affecting the plant include:
- Spider mites: small pests that suck sap from the plant and cause yellowing of leaves and early drop-off if untreated.
- Aphids: small sap-sucking insects that feed on the plant's leaves, stems, and flowers, resulting in leaf curling and stunted growth.
- Caterpillars: larvae of moths and butterflies that feed on the leaves and other parts of the Bidens plant, leading to defoliation and unproductivity.
Pest management tactics include:
- Scouting the plants frequently for signs of pest infestation and treating any observed symptoms immediately.
- Employing biological control methods such as the use of beneficial insects like lady beetles and lacewings that prey on pest organisms.
- Using chemical treatments like insecticidal soaps or neem oil, which are effective against soft-bodied insects.
