Overview
Bidens mesfinii Anderb. is a plant species belonging to the genus Bidens within the family Asteraceae. The common name for this plant is Mesfin’s bur-marigold and it is native to Ethiopia.
Appearance
The plant typically grows up to 50 cm in height and has a shrubby appearance with branching stems. The leaves are green in color and are composed of three leaflets. The flowers are yellow and are 2-3 cm in diameter with a central disc surrounded by several ray flowers.
Uses
Bidens mesfinii Anderb. is used in traditional medicine in Ethiopia to treat various ailments such as stomach disorders, malaria, and fever. The plant contains several bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and terpenoids that are responsible for its medicinal properties. The plant has also been used as an ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers.
Cultivation
Bidens mesfinii Anderb. can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings. The plant prefers well-drained soil and requires full sun to grow properly. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate moderate drought conditions and is not susceptible to many pests or diseases. The plant is best grown in gardens or as a potted plant.
Light Requirements
Bidens mesfinii Anderb. typically thrives in full sun or partial shade. This plant prefers bright light, but it also tolerates some shade.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it grows best in temperatures between 60°F (15°C) to 80°F (27°C). It can also tolerate temperatures as high as 95°F (35°C) and as low as 32°F (0°C).
Soil Requirements
Bidens mesfinii Anderb. prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soil types like sandy, loamy, or clay soils. However, it does not tolerate waterlogging, and it requires good drainage. The pH range of the soil should be between 6 to 7.5 for optimal growth.
Cultivation of Bidens mesfinii Anderb.
Bidens mesfinii Anderb. is a perennial herb that is native to Ethiopia and belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is commonly found in the highlands of Ethiopia, particularly in the Amhara region.
The plant prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It can be grown in full sun or partial shade. Propagation of the plant can be done through seeds or by division of the root ball.
Watering Needs of Bidens mesfinii Anderb.
Bidens mesfinii Anderb. requires moderate watering. It should be watered when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important not to let the plant sit in water for prolonged periods.
Fertilization of Bidens mesfinii Anderb.
Bidens mesfinii Anderb. benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be used every two to three weeks. It is important not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms.
Pruning of Bidens mesfinii Anderb.
Deadheading spent blooms on Bidens mesfinii Anderb. can encourage new growth and promote a second bloom cycle. The plant can also be pruned to maintain its shape and prevent it from becoming too large or leggy. Pruning should be done in the spring before new growth appears.
Propagation of Bidens Mesfinii Anderb.
Bidens mesfinii Anderb. is a herbaceous perennial plant commonly known as Mesfin’s beggarticks. Propagation is the process of increasing the number of plants. This can be achieved through various methods such as seeds, stem cuttings, and division. Here is a detailed look at the different methods of propagating Bidens mesfinii Anderb.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation of Bidens mesfinii Anderb. through seeds is the most common and easiest method. The plant produces seeds in abundance after flowering. The seeds can be harvested and dried before sowing. Sowing can be done directly in the ground or in seed trays or pots filled with a well-drained potting mix. The seeds should be buried half an inch deep and kept moist until germination, which usually takes 2-4 weeks. The seedlings can be transplanted to their permanent location once they have developed 2-3 true leaves.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Bidens mesfinii Anderb. can also be propagated from stem cuttings. This method involves taking stem cuttings from the parent plant and rooting them in moist soil or water. The stem cuttings should be about 4-6 inches long and taken from new growth that is not too woody. Strip the lower leaves from the stem, dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder, and plant the stem in a well-draining potting mix or water. Keep the soil or water consistently moist and the cuttings in indirect sunlight until they have developed roots, which may take 2-3 weeks. Once rooted, the cuttings can be planted in their permanent location.
Propagation by Division
Propagation of Bidens mesfinii Anderb. through division can be done in early spring or autumn when the plant is dormant. To propagate through division, dig up the parent plant and gently separate the roots into smaller sections. Each section should have some roots and at least one new shoot. Plant the divided sections in well-draining soil and water well until they establish themselves in their new location.
Disease and Pest Management for Bidens Mesfinii Anderb.
Bidens mesfinii Anderb., also known as Mesfin's beggarticks, is vulnerable to a range of diseases and pests that can impact their growth, development, and yield. Proper management is essential to maintain plant health and optimize production levels.
Common Diseases
The most common diseases affecting Bidens mesfinii Anderb. include:
- Leaf spots: These are fungal diseases that cause circular or irregular-shaped spots on the leaves. The spots may be brown, yellow, or black. Over time, the spots may merge and cause the leaves to die.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease forms a white or gray powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers. It can cause stunted growth and deformation of the plant.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by a fungus that attacks the roots of the plant. It can cause wilting, yellowing of leaves, and stunting of growth. In severe cases, the plant may die.
Disease Management
To manage diseases in Bidens mesfinii Anderb., it is essential to take the following steps:
- Cultural practices: Ensure the plants are grown in well-drained soil. Avoid overhead watering to prevent the spread of diseases. Remove any infected material from the garden to prevent the spread of diseases.
- Biochemical management: Use organic fungicides like neem oil, potassium bicarbonate, or baking soda to manage fungal diseases like powdery mildew.
- Chemical control: If the disease is severe, use a chemical fungicide like copper-based fungicides or chlorothalonil. Always read and follow the label instructions carefully.
Common Pests
The most common pests affecting Bidens mesfinii Anderb. include:
- Aphids: These are tiny insects that suck the sap out of the leaves, stems, and flowers. They can cause yellowing of leaves, stunting of growth, and deformation of the plant.
- Caterpillars: These are larvae of moths and butterflies that consume the leaves of the plant. They can cause defoliation and reduce the growth of the plant.
- Spider mites: These are tiny insects that feed on the sap of the plant and cause yellowing of leaves. They can spin a web around the leaves and cause stunted growth.
Pest Management
To manage pests in Bidens mesfinii Anderb., it is essential to take the following steps:
- Cultural practices: Keep the plants healthy and free from stress. Remove any plant debris from the garden to reduce the habitat of pests.
- Biochemical management: Use insecticidal soaps, horticultural oils, or neem oil to manage pests like aphids and spider mites.
- Chemical control: If the pest infestation is severe, use a chemical pesticide like pyrethrin or spinosad. Always read and follow the label instructions carefully.
