Origin of Bidens Micrantha Gaud.
Bidens micrantha Gaud. is a species of flowering plant in the aster family (Asteraceae) that is native to South America, specifically Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
Common Names
Bidens micrantha Gaud. is commonly known as “small-fruited beggarticks”, “Spanish needle”, “koko’i ky’a”, “pilín” and “pilinillo” in different parts of South America.
General Appearance
Bidens micrantha Gaud. is an annual herbaceous plant that typically grows to about 60cm in height. The leaves are alternately arranged and are pinnately compound with serrated margins. They have a dark green color and grow up to 10cm long. The flowers are yellow in color, with numerous florets arranged in a dense head. The fruits are small and covered in tiny barbed hooks or bristles, which can easily attach to clothing or animal fur.
Uses of Bidens Micrantha Gaud.
Bidens micrantha Gaud. has been traditionally used in South America for its various medicinal properties. The plant has been used as a remedy for diarrhea, fever, coughs, colds, and other respiratory tract infections. It has also been used as a topical treatment for skin conditions such as wounds, cuts, and infections. In addition, the plant has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it useful for pain relief and reducing inflammation.
Light Requirements
Bidens micrantha is a plant that prefers full sun for optimal growth. This plant can tolerate some shade but performs best in direct sunlight. It is important to note that insufficient light can lead to stunted growth and poor flowering.
Temperature Requirements
Bidens micrantha is a native of tropical America and is adapted to warm temperatures. It requires temperatures between 21°C to 27°C to thrive. Temperatures below 15°C can damage the plant, and frost can be fatal.
Soil Requirements
Bidens micrantha grows well in a variety of soils, but it prefers well-draining soils rich in organic matter. Sandy loam to clay loam soils are suitable for its growth. The pH range should be from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil with a pH between 6.0 to 7.5. It can tolerate soil with a pH range of 5.0 to 8.5, but the plant may not grow to its full potential.
Cultivation Methods
Bidens micrantha Gaud., also known as Small-Fruited Beggartick, is a hardy plant that thrives in full sunlight. It is easily grown in well-drained soils and can be grown in a pot or planted directly into a garden bed. It is recommended to plant the Small-Fruited Beggartick in early spring, after the last frost date, or during the fall season. During the growing season, the plant produces yellow flowers that bloom from early summer to early fall.
Watering Needs
The Small-Fruited Beggartick plant prefers moist soil. Regular watering is essential, especially during the hot and dry summer season. However, over-watering can lead to root rot and damaged leaves. The soil should be tested regularly to ensure it is moist but not water-logged. It is advisable to water the plant early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce water loss through evaporation.
Fertilization
The Small-Fruited Beggartick plant is not a heavy feeder, and moderate fertilization is sufficient. A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) ratio of 10-10-10 is recommended. Fertilizers should be applied during active growth periods, generally in mid-spring and late summer or as prescribed by the manufacturer. Over-fertilizing can lead to leggy growth, reduced flowering, and weakened stems.
Pruning
Pruning can be done as needed to shape the Small-Fruited Beggartick plant. Deadheading, which is the removal of spent blooms, is also essential to promote new growth and prolonged flowering. Pruning and deadheading should be done consistently to encourage bushy growth and a more compact plant.
Propagation of Bidens micrantha Gaud.
Bidens micrantha Gaud., commonly known as small-bracted beggarticks, is a species of flowering plant in the family Asteraceae. Propagation of this plant can be done through various methods such as:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagation of Bidens micrantha Gaud. is through seed. The plant produces small, black, and slender seeds that can be collected from the mature flower heads and stored in a dry and cool place until the time of sowing comes. The seeds can remain viable for up to a year, but they germinate best when fresh. The seeds require light for germination, so they should be sown on the surface of the soil and not covered. They also require a moist soil, so regular watering is necessary until the seedlings emerge.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is another method of propagating Bidens micrantha Gaud. that involves taking a stem cutting from a mature plant and rooting it in a suitable growing medium. The best time to take cuttings is during the growing season when the plant is actively producing new growth. Cuttings should be about four to six inches long and should have several leaves. The leaves of the cutting should be trimmed by half, and the cutting should be planted in a well-draining and moist growing medium. The cuttings need to be kept in a warm and humid environment until they root, which can take up to four weeks. Once rooted, the new plant can be transplanted into a pot or a garden bed.
Division Propagation
Bidens micrantha Gaud. can also be propagated through division. This method involves separating the parent plant into several smaller sections, each with its own root system. Division should be carried out during early spring when the plant is starting to produce new growth. The plant should be dug up and carefully divided into smaller sections using a sharp and sterilized tool. Each section must have its own root system and a few stems and leaves. The sections should be planted in a suitable growing medium and kept moist until they establish.
Disease and Pest Management for Bidens micrantha Gaud.
Bidens micrantha Gaud. is a hardy plant, but like any other plant, it can be susceptible to certain diseases and pests. Effective disease and pest management practices are essential to keep the plant healthy and thriving.
Common Diseases
Bidens micrantha Gaud. is vulnerable to certain diseases, such as powdery mildew and leaf blight. Powdery mildew can quickly spread and affect the growth of the plant. Leaf blight can cause yellowing and decay of leaves, ultimately leading to plant death.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew can be controlled by good cultural practices, including proper spacing between plants, adequate irrigation, and fertilization. Additionally, you can use fungicides to control powdery mildew. Make sure to read the label instructions for the specific fungicide you are using and follow them carefully.
Leaf Blight
Preventative measures such as plant rotation and maintaining good air circulation can help control leaf blight. Also, remove any infected leaves and dispose of them immediately. Fungicides are also effective in controlling leaf blight.
Common Pests
While Bidens micrantha Gaud. is not commonly prey to pests, certain insects may cause damage. Spider mites can be a problem, especially in dry conditions, and aphids can cause significant damage to the plant by sucking the sap from the leaves and flowers.
Spider Mites
Spider mite infestations can be controlled by washing the plant's leaves and increasing humidity around the plant. You can also introduce insects such as ladybugs, which are natural predators of spider mites. Insecticides can also be used to control spider mites, but they should be used as a last resort.
Aphids
In the case of an aphid infestation, you can use natural remedies such as spraying the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap or using a spray made from neem oil. Another effective method is introducing beneficial insects such as ladybugs, which are natural predators of aphids. Insecticides can be used but only as a last resort.
By practicing good cultural practices, regularly monitoring plants for signs of diseases and pests, and using effective control methods, you can successfully manage diseases and pests on Bidens micrantha Gaud..
