Origin
Bidens menziesii (Gray) Sherff ssp. menziesii, also known as Menzies’ beggarticks or Menzies’ water marigold, is a flowering plant species native to the western regions of North America. It can commonly be found in wetland habitats such as marshes, meadows, and streambanks, from sea level to subalpine elevations.
Common Names
Menzies’ beggarticks is the most common name for this plant, honoring the Scottish naturalist, Archibald Menzies, who explored the Pacific Northwest coast with Captain George Vancouver in the late 18th century. Moreover, it is also known as Menzies’ water marigold due to its similar-looking flowers with the marigold plant and its preference to grow near water.
Uses
In traditional Native American medicine, Bidens menziesii has been commonly used as a remedy for various health problems, such as headaches, colds, fever, and rheumatism. Additionally, some indigenous tribes have used it to relieve skin infections and wounds. Due to its attractive yellow flowers, the plant is also occasionally used as an ornamental plant in natural and designed wetland landscapes.
General Appearance
Menzies’ beggarticks is a herbaceous annual plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall. Its leaves are simple, deeply lobed, and evenly spaced on the stems. The yellow flowers are daisy-like, with 8 to 13 ray florets and yellow disk florets in the center. Its fruits, known as achenes, are brown, elongated, and somewhat flattened, with several barbed bristles that easily attach to clothes or fur, making it a common concern for hikers and gardeners.
Light Requirements
Bidens menziesii (Gray) Sherff ssp. menziesii typically prefers full sun exposure with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. When placed under excess shade, the plant may experience stunted growth and reduced flowering.
Temperature Preferences
The plant thrives under a moderate climate with temperatures ranging between 60-80°F (16-27°C). It is important to ensure that the plant is not exposed to frost or excessive heat as this may result in wilting or reduced growth.
Soil Requirements
Bidens menziesii (Gray) Sherff ssp. menziesii typically prefers well-draining, loam or sandy soils. The soil should have a pH range of 5.5-7.0 and rich in organic matter. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged as this may lead to root rot or bacterial infections.
Cultivation Methods
Bidens menziesii (Gray) Sherff ssp. menziesii is a native North American plant that thrives in dry and rocky habitats. It is relatively easy to cultivate and can be grown from seeds. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil in a sunny location. The seedlings should be kept moist until they establish roots and start growing. Once the plants are established, they require little care to thrive.
Watering Needs
Bidens menziesii (Gray) Sherff ssp. menziesii is a drought-tolerant plant and can survive in dry conditions. However, during the hot summer months, the plant requires regular watering to thrive. It is recommended to water the plant deeply once a week, rather than frequent shallow waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot and should be avoided.
Fertilization
Bidens menziesii (Gray) Sherff ssp. menziesii does not require frequent fertilization and can grow well in nutrient-poor soils. However, a small amount of slow-release fertilizer can be added to the soil during the growing season to promote growth and flowering. It is important not to over-fertilize the plant as this can lead to excessive leaf growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning
Bidens menziesii (Gray) Sherff ssp. menziesii does not require pruning for its health but can benefit from it for its appearance. The plant can be pruned to maintain its shape and size. Deadhead the flowers regularly to encourage the plant to produce more blooms. Additionally, removing the spent flowers can prevent the plant from self-seeding and spreading too much. Pruning should be done in the early spring or late fall.
Propagation of Bidens Menziesii (Gray) Sherff ssp. Menziesii
Bidens menziesii (Gray) Sherff ssp. menziesii, commonly known as Menzies' beggarticks or Menzies' sticktight, is an herbaceous plant that belongs to the sunflower family. This plant is native to the western region of North America and is commonly found in meadows, prairies, and open woodland areas. Bidens Menziesii can be propagated through different methods including seeds and cuttings.
Propagation through Seeds
Bidens menziesii can be propagated through seeds, which can be obtained from mature seeds pods in the fall. Seeds are small and should be harvested when the seed pods start to turn brown. Once you have the seeds, you can plant them in individual containers or in a nursery bed. Seeds will germinate in 10 to 30 days, and the seedlings are usually ready to transplant after reaching a height of 4 to 6 inches.
Propagation through Cuttings
Bidens menziesii can also be propagated through cuttings, which involves taking cuttings from the parent plant and rooting them in the soil. Cuttings should be taken in the spring or summer while the plant is actively growing. Cuttings are best taken from the tips of young branches that are not yet woody. Once the cuttings are obtained, remove the lower leaves and insert the cuttings in a moist soil mix. Cuttings should be kept in a warm and humid place, and the soil should be kept moist until new roots form.
Propagation of Bidens Menziesii can be an interesting project for gardeners looking to establish this beautiful plant in their gardens. With the right techniques, it is possible to produce healthy plants that will thrive in various conditions.
Disease Management
Bidens menziesii is prone to a few diseases that can be managed by implementing good cultural practices. One common fungal disease that affects this plant is powdery mildew. This disease thrives in warm and humid conditions and can cause the leaves to become covered in a white powdery substance. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to water the plant at the base and avoid getting the leaves wet. Proper spacing of the plant to ensure good air circulation can also help prevent the disease from spreading. Applying fungicides can also help control severe cases of powdery mildew.
Another fungal disease that can affect Bidens menziesii is rust. This disease creates small orange or brown spots on the leaves, which can eventually lead to leaf yellowing and dropping. To manage rust, it is important to remove infected leaves and avoid watering the plant from above. Applying fungicides can also help control severe cases of rust.
Pest Management
Bidens menziesii is generally resistant to most pests, but there are a few that can cause some damage. One common pest that can affect this plant is aphids. These small insects feed on the sap from the leaves and can cause them to curl and distort. To manage aphids, it is important to regularly monitor the plant and use insecticidal soap or horticultural oils to control severe cases.
Another pest that can affect Bidens menziesii is spider mites. These tiny pests can cause the leaves to become stippled and yellow. To manage spider mites, it is important to regularly monitor the plant and spray it with a strong stream of water to knock off the pests. Applying insecticidal soap or horticultural oils can also help control severe cases of spider mites.
