Origin
Bidens insecta (S.Moore) Sherff is a species of flowering plant in the family Asteraceae. It is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, specifically in Angola, Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Zambia.
Common Names
Bidens insecta has several common names which include butterfly beggarticks, insect-like beggarticks, and butterfly-tickseed.
Uses
Although there is limited information about the medicinal properties of Bidens insecta, its leaves and roots have been used in traditional African medicine to treat various ailments. The plant also has potential as a source of bioactive compounds for the pharmaceutical industry.
Bidens insecta is also a popular ornamental plant due to its showy yellow flowers and attractive foliage. It is commonly grown in gardens or as a border plant.
General Appearance
Bidens insecta is a herbaceous annual plant that grows up to 1 meter in height. It has an upright, branching stem and pinnately divided leaves that are green in color. The leaves have serrated edges and are covered in fine hairs. The plant produces attractive yellow flowers that resemble a butterfly in flight, with elongated petals and a dark brown central disk. The flowers are followed by small, barbed seeds that stick to clothing or animal fur, enabling the plant to spread over a wide area.
Growth Conditions for Bidens Insecta (S.Moore) Sherff
Light: Bidens insecta requires a lot of sunlight to grow properly and thrive. It is recommended to place it in a location where it can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight a day. However, it can also tolerate partial shade and can be grown under artificial light under certain conditions as well.
Temperature: Bidens insecta can grow well in a wide range of temperatures. However, it thrives best in warm temperatures between 20°C to 30°C. It is important to note that it cannot tolerate frost and cannot grow in temperatures below 0°C. Therefore, it is best to grow it in environments that are frost-free.
Soil: The ideal soil for Bidens insecta is well-draining, moist, and fertile soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. It can grow in a wide range of soils, but it cannot tolerate waterlogged or very sandy soils. Adding organic matter, such as compost or manure, to the soil can improve its fertility and drainage, which can promote the growth of Bidens insecta.
Fertilizer: Bidens insecta does not require a lot of fertilizer to grow, but it can benefit from a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It is recommended to fertilize it once a month during the growing season. Over-fertilization can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduced flowering.
Water: Bidens insecta requires regular watering to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. It is important not to let the soil dry out completely, as it can lead to stunted growth and reduced flowering. However, it is also important not to overwater, as it can cause root rot and other diseases. Watering it once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions, can ensure healthy growth.
Propagation: Bidens insecta can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be planted in well-draining soil at a depth of 1/8 inch and kept moist until germination. Cuttings should be taken from healthy plants and planted in soil or water until they develop roots. It is best to propagate it during the growing season when the plant is actively growing.
Cultivation Methods
Bidens insecta (S.Moore) Sherff can be cultivated in both full sun and partial shade. It is recommended to plant the seeds in early spring or late fall when the temperature is no longer freezing. The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. It is also essential to keep the soil moist during the germination period and subsequently back off slightly once the plants are established.
Watering Needs
Bidens insecta (S.Moore) Sherff requires moderate watering. It is recommended to water the plant evenly, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. The plant needs more water during the hot summer months than during the cooler periods. It is essential to avoid overwatering the plant as it can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Bidens insecta (S.Moore) Sherff does not require much fertilizer. However, if you want to ensure optimum growth, you can use an all-purpose fertilizer during the growing season. It is also recommended to top-dress the soil with compost or well-rotted manure for additional nutrients.
Pruning
Bidens insecta (S.Moore) Sherff does not require pruning. However, you can remove any dead or damaged branches to encourage healthy growth. Also, since the plant can get quite bushy, you can pinch back the tips of the young plants to encourage branching and to keep the plant compact.
Propagation of Bidens insecta (S.Moore) Sherff
Bidens insecta (S.Moore) Sherff, commonly known as Hairy Tickseed, is a delightful plant to have in your garden. If you're planning to propagate this plant, here are the different methods you can try:
Seed Propagation
One way to propagate Bidens insecta is through seeds. Collect the mature seeds and store them in a dry, cool place. You can either sow the seeds directly into the soil outdoors or start them indoors in seed starting trays. Sow the seeds just below the surface of the soil, keep them moist, and ensure they receive adequate sunlight. Once the seedlings have established a few true leaves, you can transplant them to their permanent location.
Cutting Propagation
Another propagation method you can use is through cuttings. Take a stem cutting from the parent plant, ensuring it has at least two nodes. Remove the lower leaves of the stem cutting and dip it in rooting hormone. Plant it in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix and water it thoroughly. Place the pot in a warm, humid location, and keep it moist. In a few weeks, the cutting should root, and you can transplant it to a bigger pot or outside when it's big enough.
Division Propagation
Bidens insecta can also be propagated through division. In spring, gently dig up the parent plant, and using a clean and sharp garden tool, split the plant into smaller sections. Ensure each section has a healthy root system and replant them in their new location. Water them well and keep the soil moist until they establish.
Disease and Pest Management for Bidens Insecta (S.Moore) Sherff
Bidens insecta (S.Moore) Sherff belongs to the Asteraceae family and is commonly found in the tropical areas of East Africa. While it is a hardy plant, it is still susceptible to certain pests and diseases that can hamper its growth and yield.
Common Diseases
The most common disease that affects Bidens insecta is powdery mildew. This disease is caused by a fungus that grows on the leaves of the plant and can spread rapidly if not controlled. Symptoms include white powdery patches on the leaves, which can cause them to yellow and eventually die.
To manage powdery mildew, it's important to keep the plant well-ventilated and avoid overcrowding. Fungicides can be used to control the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
The most common pests that affect Bidens insecta are aphids and spider mites. These pests feed on the sap of the plant, which can lead to stunted growth and reduced yield. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing leaves and discoloration.
To manage aphids and spider mites, it's important to regularly check the plants for signs of infestation. Natural predators such as ladybugs can be introduced to control the pests. Horticultural oils can also be used to manage the infestation.
Another pest that affects Bidens insecta is the whitefly. These pests are known for their powdery white wings and feed on the sap of the plant. Symptoms include yellowing leaves and reduced yield.
To manage whiteflies, it's important to use sticky traps or introduce natural predators such as parasitic wasps. Insecticidal soaps can also be used to manage the infestation.
Conclusion
By monitoring Bidens insecta regularly and taking the necessary steps to manage pests and diseases, it is possible to ensure healthy growth and a bountiful yield. Prevention is key, so it's important to maintain good plant hygiene and avoid overcrowding.
