Plant Description
Bidens micrantha Gaud. var. kaalana Sherff is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is commonly known as "ka?ala-kiko??" in the Hawaiian language. The plant has small, yellow flowers and can grow up to 1-2 meters in height. The leaves are simple, arranged alternately, and have a serrated shape with a dark green coloration.
Origin
Bidens micrantha Gaud. var. kaalana Sherff is native to Hawaii, where it can be found in wet, forested areas. It is also found in other parts of the world, including Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands.
Common Uses
The plant has been used by native Hawaiians for medicinal purposes, including treating wounds, coughs, and fevers. It has also been used to make dyes for kapa cloth. Additionally, the plant attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
General Appearance
Bidens micrantha Gaud. var. kaalana Sherff is a tall plant with small, yellow flowers and dark green leaves that are serrated. Its stem is sturdy and upright, with a woody texture at the base. The plant thrives in moist, shaded areas and can grow to be quite dense.
Light Requirements
Bidens micrantha Gaud. var. kaalana Sherff thrives in full sun to partial shade. It requires about six hours of sunlight a day for optimal growth. However, in hot climates, it may need some shade during the hottest part of the day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers moderate temperatures. It can withstand heat but does not tolerate extreme cold. The ideal temperature range for Bidens micrantha Gaud. var. kaalana Sherff is between 60-85°F. Temperatures below 45°F may cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Bidens micrantha Gaud. var. kaalana Sherff grows best in well-drained soils. The soil should be rich in nutrients and organic matter. The optimal soil pH range for this plant is 5.5-7.5. It is important to avoid waterlogged and compacted soils as these can lead to poor growth and root rot.
Cultivation methods
Bidens micrantha Gaud. var. kaalana Sherff thrives in well-drained soils with a mixture of sand and loam. The plant requires plenty of sunlight, and it is advisable to place it in a sunny spot that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. When planting, it is essential to space the plants about 24 to 36 inches apart to allow room for growth.
Watering needs
Bidens micrantha Gaud. var. kaalana Sherff requires regular watering, especially during the dry season. The plant is sensitive to overwatering and requires moderate watering. A good watering routine is to give the plant a deep soaking once per week or when the soil is dry to the touch. However, be careful not to leave the plant in standing water as it may lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilization is essential for the proper growth and development of Bidens micrantha Gaud. var. kaalana Sherff. The ideal fertilizer should have a balanced combination of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. A common approach is to apply a controlled-release fertilizer every three months to maintain the plant's health. However, be careful not to over-fertilize as it may lead to weaker stems and foliage.
Pruning
Bidens micrantha Gaud. var. kaalana Sherff requires some pruning to maintain its shape and size. Pruning is best done in the early spring before the plant starts its growing season. It is advisable to remove the dead and damaged branches, as well as the ones that are crossing over each other. This practice enhances airflow and allows more sunlight to reach the base, which results in a healthier plant.
Propagation of Bidens micrantha Gaud. var. kaalana Sherff
Bidens micrantha Gaud. var. kaalana Sherff, also known as the Hawaiian beggarticks, is a flowering plant native to Hawaii. It is a popular plant for landscaping due to its bright green leaves and yellow flowers. There are several methods of propagating Bidens micrantha Gaud. var. kaalana Sherff, including:
Seed Propagation
The easiest and most common method of propagating Bidens micrantha Gaud. var. kaalana Sherff is through seed propagation. To do this, collect mature seed heads from the plant and allow them to dry in a cool, dry place. Once the seeds have dried enough to easily remove from the seed heads, collect them and store them in a dry, cool location until ready to plant.
Plant the seeds in prepared soil, ensuring that they are spaced apart to allow for growth. Keep the soil moist, and germination should occur within 1-2 weeks. Once the seedlings have grown their second set of true leaves, they can be transplanted into their permanent location.
Cuttings Propagation
Bidens micrantha Gaud. var. kaalana Sherff can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Take cuttings from the plant in the spring or summer, making sure to include at least 2-3 nodes on the stem. Remove any leaves from the bottom half of the cutting and dip the cut end into rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in prepared soil, and keep it moist and warm until roots begin to form.
Once the cutting has developed a healthy root system, it can be transplanted into its permanent location.
Dividing Propagation
Bidens micrantha Gaud. var. kaalana Sherff can be propagated through dividing as well. This method is best done in the spring when the plant is actively growing. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the root system into two or more sections, making sure each section has enough roots to support growth. Replant each divided section into prepared soil, keeping it moist and warm until established.
With proper care, propagation of Bidens micrantha Gaud. var. kaalana Sherff can be easily accomplished using any of these methods.
Disease and Pest Management for Bidens Micrantha Gaud. var. Kaalana Sherff
Bidens micrantha Gaud. var. kaalana Sherff, commonly known as the Oregon beggartick, is generally a hardy plant that can withstand pests and diseases. However, if not properly cared for, it can fall victim to various pests and diseases. Below are some common diseases and pests that can affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Leaf spots: Leaf spots are a common fungal infection that shows up as brown or blackish spots on the leaves. The infected leaves may fall off, leading to defoliation. To manage leaf spots, avoid watering from above, adopt the drip irrigation method, and ensure there is good air circulation. In severe cases, use a fungicide to treat the plant.
Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that causes the roots to rot, leading to the death of the plant. It usually occurs in poorly drained soils. To manage root rot, ensure the soil is well-drained and avoid over-watering. Use a fungicide to treat the plant if infestation is severe.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the plants. They are usually found in clusters on the growing tips, leaves, and stems. To manage aphids, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Alternatively, introduce predators such as ladybugs. You can also hose down the plant with a strong jet of water.
Spider mites: Spider mites are common pests that suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to yellow and curl. They leave behind a fine webbing on the plant. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also introduce predators such as phytoseiulus persimilis.
Leaf miners: Leaf miners are small, yellowish maggots that tunnel through the leaves of the plants. They leave behind meandering trails that look like white or brownish lines. To manage leaf miners, remove the infected leaves and properly dispose of them. You can also introduce parasitic wasps such as diglyphus isaea.
In conclusion, proper care and management of Bidens micrantha Gaud. var. kaalana Sherff can go a long way in keeping pests and diseases at bay. By adopting good cultural practices such as ensuring proper drainage, watering from below, and avoiding over-fertilization, you can prevent most pest and disease infestations.
