Overview
Bidens reptans (L.) G. Don var. urbanii (Greenm.) O.E. Schulz, commonly known as creeping beggartick or Urbani's beggartick, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is native to various parts of North America and can be found growing in wetlands, marshes, and roadside ditches.
Appearance
The stems of Bidens reptans var. urbanii are extremely thin, measuring only 0.5-2 mm in diameter and up to 70 cm in length. The leaves are opposite, entire or toothed, and can measure up to 7 cm in length. The flowers are yellow in color and are arranged in small, compact heads, with each head measuring about 1 cm in diameter. The flower heads bloom from July through October.
Uses
Bidens reptans var. urbanii has been traditionally used by Native American tribes to treat stomach ailments, fever, and as a diuretic. It has also been used to treat skin conditions like sores and rashes. The leaves and stems of the plant are edible and can be boiled and eaten as a vegetable. Due to its attractive appearance, Bidens reptans var. urbanii is also used in garden and landscaping settings, particularly in moist soil conditions, where it can thrive.
Overall, Bidens reptans var. urbanii is a unique and valuable plant with an array of traditional uses, and it is an excellent addition to gardens and landscapes with moist soil.Light Requirements
Bidens reptans var. urbanii typically grows in areas with full to partial sunlight exposure. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not thrive in completely shaded conditions. The amount of light that this plant receives can affect its growth rate and flowering ability.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers warm and humid growing conditions. The optimal temperature range for its growth is between 20°C to 27°C, and it can tolerate temperatures as low as 15°C. Bidens reptans var. urbanii is adapted to USDA Hardiness Zones 8 through 10, making it suitable for regions with mild winters.
Soil Requirements
A well-draining soil is essential for the growth of Bidens reptans var. urbanii. It prefers soil with a neutral to alkaline pH level between 6.5 to 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter, and it should retain enough moisture while being well aerated. This plant can tolerate occasional flooding, but it should not be continuously submerged in water.
Cultivation Methods
Bidens reptans (L.) G. Don var. urbanii (Greenm.) O.E. Schulz is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. It thrives in full sunlight, but can also handle partial shade. The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. It is best to plant the Bidens reptans (L.) G. Don var. urbanii (Greenm.) O.E. Schulz during spring.
Watering Needs
Bidens reptans (L.) G. Don var. urbanii (Greenm.) O.E. Schulz requires moderate watering. The soil should be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged. During the warmer months, Bidens reptans (L.) G. Don var. urbanii (Greenm.) O.E. Schulz needs more frequent watering, especially during extended periods of drought.
Fertilization
Bidens reptans (L.) G. Don var. urbanii (Greenm.) O.E. Schulz does not require frequent fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season is sufficient. Slow-release fertilizers work well too. Over-fertilization can cause excessive foliage growth and reduce the number of flowers.
Pruning
Bidens reptans (L.) G. Don var. urbanii (Greenm.) O.E. Schulz does not require much pruning. Deadheading faded flowers will encourage the plant to produce more blooms. If the plant becomes too leggy or unruly, it can be pruned to shape in the early summer. However, it's important to avoid pruning too much, as it can reduce the number of blooms.
Propagation of Bidens reptans (L.) G. Don var. urbanii (Greenm.) O.E. Schulz
Bidens reptans (L.) G. Don var. urbanii (Greenm.) O.E. Schulz, commonly known as Urban's beggarticks, can be propagated through various methods.
Seeds
Seeds are the easiest and most reliable method of propagating Urban's beggarticks. Collect seeds in the fall when the plant is finished blooming and the seed heads have dried. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix during the spring or early summer when the temperature is warm. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes 7-10 days.
Cuttings
Cuttings can also be used to propagate Urban's beggarticks. Take 3-4 inch cuttings from the tips of stems in spring or summer. Remove the lower leaves from the cutting and dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder. Insert the cutting in a well-draining soil mix, and water it well. Cover the cutting with plastic to maintain humidity and keep it out of direct sunlight. Roots should develop in 2-3 weeks.
Division
Dividing established plants is another way to propagate Urban's beggarticks. Do this in the spring when the plant has come out of dormancy and started to grow. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the root ball into smaller sections. Replant the sections in a well-draining soil mix and water them well.
Whichever method of propagation is used, it's important to keep the new plants well-watered until they are established.
Disease and Pest Management for Bidens Reptans
Bidens reptans (L.) G. Don var. urbanii (Greenm.) O.E. Schulz, commonly known as Coasting beggarticks or Coastal plain beggar-tick, is a hardy plant that is resistant to many diseases and pests. However, there are still some common diseases and pests that can affect the plant. Here are some disease and pest management strategies for this plant:
Common Diseases
The following are some of the common diseases that might affect Bidens reptans:
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that often affects plants in hot and dry weather conditions. The first sign of powdery mildew is the presence of white, powdery growth on the leaves and stems. To manage this disease, prune off the affected parts and dispose of them to prevent the spread of the disease. You can also apply a fungicide to the plant, but make sure to follow the instructions carefully.
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is another fungal disease that can cause dark spots on the leaves of Bidens reptans. To manage this disease, remove the affected leaves and dispose of them. You can also apply a fungicide to the plant, but again, make sure to follow the instructions carefully.
Rust
Rust is a fungal disease that can cause yellow or orange spots on the leaves of Bidens reptans. To manage this disease, remove the affected leaves and dispose of them. You can also apply a fungicide to the plant, but make sure to follow the instructions carefully.
Common Pests
The following are some of the common pests that might affect Bidens reptans:
Aphids
Aphids are small insects that can suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage aphids, you can use insecticidal soap or a strong stream of water to wash them off the plant. You can also introduce natural predators such as ladybugs to the area to control the aphid population.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny arachnids that can cause yellow or brown spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage spider mites, you can use insecticidal soap or a strong stream of water to wash them off the plant. You can also introduce natural predators such as predatory mites to the area to control the spider mite population.
Whiteflies
Whiteflies are tiny insects that can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To manage whiteflies, you can use insecticidal soap or introduce natural predators such as parasitic wasps to control the population.
Overall, the best way to manage diseases and pests is to maintain a healthy growing environment for the plant. This includes providing adequate water and fertilizer, pruning regularly, and preventing overcrowding. By following these disease and pest management strategies, you can help keep your Bidens reptans healthy and thriving.
