Overview
Bidens gracilior (O.Hoffm.) Sherff is a flowering plant that belongs to the sunflower family, Asteraceae. It is a herbaceous perennial that is native to North America, particularly in the states of Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana.
Common Names
Bidens gracilior is commonly known as slender beggarticks, swamp beggar-ticks, and slender stick-tight. These names are derived from its slim appearance and the fact that its seeds have small hooks that cling to clothing or fur, aiding in the plant's spread.
Uses
Bidens gracilior has been used for medicinal purposes by indigenous communities throughout its native range. Infusions made from the plant's roots and leaves are used to treat fever, headache, and digestive problems.
The plant is also used in landscaping due to its attractive yellow flowers, which bloom from late summer to early fall. It is also a popular plant for wildlife gardens, as it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Appearance
Bidens gracilior typically grows to a height of two to three feet and has slender stems that are green, sometimes reddish, and hairless. The leaves are narrow and elongated, measuring between two and six inches long. The distinctive yellow flowers are small and daisy-like, and they bloom in clusters at the end of the stems. The plant produces fruits in the form of tiny brown seeds that have barbs or hooks, which aid in their dispersal.
Light Requirements
Bidens gracilior requires full exposure to sunlight for its optimal growth and development. The plant naturally grows in areas that receive sunlight throughout the day and therefore, it is important to ensure that it receives adequate exposure to sunlight in garden settings. Under adequate light conditions, Bidens gracilior produces its signature yellow and white flowers.
Temperature Requirements
Bidens gracilior typically grows in areas with warm temperatures. The plant thrives in temperatures between 20 - 30 degrees Celsius. Bidens gracilior is not suited for cold weather and may die back during the winter months if exposed to freezing temperatures. In areas with colder climates, it is advisable to grow Bidens gracilior indoors in containers or treat the plant as an annual.
Soil Requirements
Bidens gracilior requires fertile, well-draining soil for its optimal growth and development. The plant thrives in soil with a pH between 6.0-7.5. It is advisable to incorporate organic matter such as compost into the soil as it provides nutrients that promote growth. Bidens gracilior is suited for moist soils, but it is important to ensure that the soil is not waterlogged as it may lead to root rot. Adequate drainage should, therefore, be provided.
Cultivation Methods
Bidens gracilior is a perennial herb that thrives in a well-draining soil mixture that is rich in organic matter. It can be propagated from seeds or cuttings and grows well in full to partial sunlight. However, it can also tolerate some shade.
If starting from seeds, sow them in a tray or pot at a depth of 1/4 inch. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and place the tray or pot in a warm and brightly lit area. The seeds should germinate in approximately 7-10 days. After germination, transplant the seedlings into individual pots and grow them until they are large enough to transplant outdoors.
If starting from cuttings, choose healthy stems that are free from disease or damage and plant them in a well-draining soil mixture. Keep the soil moist and mist the cuttings frequently to keep them hydrated. Once the roots have established, they can be transplanted outdoors.
Watering Needs
Bidens gracilior requires consistent moisture to grow and thrive. Water the plant deeply once a week, and adjust the frequency of watering according to the weather conditions and moisture levels in the soil. Avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
During the hot and dry summer months, increase the frequency of watering by a day or two, but be careful not to flood the plant with too much water. In the winter months, reduce the frequency of watering as the plant is in a state of dormancy.
Fertilization
A well-nourished Bidens gracilior produces more blooms and foliage. Use a balanced fertilizer, preferably one that is high in potassium and phosphorus, as these nutrients promote flower and fruit production. Apply the fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
During the winter dormancy period, reduce the frequency of fertilization to every six weeks or stop fertilizing altogether. This allows the plant to rest and conserve its energy until the next growing season.
Pruning
Bidens gracilior can become leggy if it is not pruned regularly. Trim the plant regularly to maintain its shape and encourage bushy growth. Snip off any dead or wilted blooms and stems to keep the plant tidy and neat.
You can cut back the plant to a few inches above the soil level in early spring to promote fresh growth. This also helps to remove the old and woody stems and encourages new growth from the base.
When pruning Bidens gracilior, use clean and sharp pruning shears or scissors to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Bidens Gracilior
Bidens gracilior, commonly known as Graceful Beggarticks, is a herbaceous perennial plant that originates from the Southwestern United States and Northern Mexico. It is an attractive plant commonly grown for its charming yellow flowers and its attractive foliage. Propagation of Bidens gracilior can be achieved using various methods.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation of Bidens gracilior can be done using its seeds. The seeds should be sown in seed trays or pots filled with well-draining potting mix in early spring. Cover the seeds lightly with the same soil mix and water well. Keep the pots in a warm location with adequate light. Germination should start in 2-3 weeks. Once the seedlings are large enough, pot them up individually and continue to grow them until they are mature enough to be transplanted into the garden.
Propagation by Cuttings
Bidens gracilior can also be propagated by cuttings. To propagate by cuttings, take cuttings of healthy stems in spring. Cuttings should be approximately 5-7cm long, with at least two nodes. Remove the lower nodes and any flowers or buds. Dip the ends of the cuttings into a rooting hormone, then place them in a potting mix. Water well and keep in a warm, shaded place until new growth appears. The new plants should be grown until they are mature enough to be planted in the garden.
Propagation by Division
Bidens gracilior can also be propagated by division. Propagation by division should be done in the spring and fall. To propagate by division, dig up the mature plant and separate the plant into small clumps. Ensure each clump has healthy roots and shoots. Replant the divided clumps in well-draining soil and water well. The new plants should be grown until they are mature enough to be planted in the garden.
Disease Management
Bidens gracilior, also known as the Arizona beggar-tick, is susceptible to several diseases that can affect its growth and productivity. The common diseases that affect this plant include:
- Root Rot: This is caused by waterlogged soil or poor drainage. Affected plants may have yellowed leaves, stunted growth and may die. To manage root rot, improve soil drainage, avoid overwatering, and remove any affected plant parts.
- Gray Mold: This disease is caused by Botrytis spp. and can occur in wet, humid conditions. It appears as grayish-brown lesions on leaves and stems of the plant. To manage gray mold, ensure good air circulation around the plant, avoid overhead watering, use well-draining soil, and remove any affected plant parts.
- Mildew: Powdery mildew, caused by Erysiphe cichoracearum, can occur in humid conditions. It appears as white, powdery growth on leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage mildew, avoid overhead watering, provide good air circulation, remove affected plant parts, and use neem oil or other organic fungicides.
Pest Management
Bidens gracilior is also susceptible to several pests that can damage the plant and reduce its productivity. Here are some of the common pests that affect this plant:
- Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that may cluster on the undersides of leaves and flowers. They feed on plant sap, leading to stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage aphids, use a strong stream of water to dislodge them, introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs or lacewings, or use organic sprays like neem oil or insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: These are tiny, eight-legged pests that suck sap from the plant and cause leaves to yellow and wilt. They produce fine webbing on the plant, which can be used to identify them. To manage spider mites, use a strong stream of water to dislodge them, introduce beneficial insects like predatory mites, or use neem oil or other organic sprays.
- Caterpillars: These are the larval stage of butterflies and moths that can feed on leaves, flowers, and stems of the plant. Caterpillars can be easily identified by their chewing damage on the plant. To manage them, manually remove them from the plant and use organic sprays like BT (Bacillus thuringiensis).
