Overview of Bidens scandens L.
Bidens scandens L., commonly known as climbing beggartick, is a native plant of North America that belongs to the Asteraceae family. The plant is known for its medicinal properties, and its seeds and leaves have been used for various purposes.
Common names
Climbing beggartick is also known by several other names, including tickseed sunflower, devil's pitchfork, sticktights, and Spanish needles.
Plant Appearance
The climbing beggartick plant can grow up to 10 feet in height and has a climbing nature. The leaves of the plant are alternate and serrated, with a dark green color at the top and a lighter shade at the bottom. The plant produces small yellow flowers that bloom from July to October. The fruit of the plant is elongated and has two to four barbed seeds.
Uses
The plant has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties, including the treatment of kidney stones, fever, and digestive problems. The leaves of the plant can be used to make tea, and its seeds have been used to treat skin problems like eczema, psoriasis, and acne. Additionally, the fruit and leaves of the plant are a source of food for birds and other wildlife.
In summary, Bidens scandens L. is a climbing plant native to North America, commonly known as climbing beggartick. The plant produces yellow flowers and elongated fruits with barbed seeds. It has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes and is a source of food for wildlife.
Light requirements
Bidens scandens L. typically thrives in full sun conditions. It requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight exposure each day to grow and develop properly. However, it can tolerate partial shade conditions, but the growth rate may be slower compared to that in full sun.
Temperature requirements
The plant Bidens scandens L. requires warm temperatures with a range of about 18 to 27 degrees Celsius. It cannot tolerate frost or freezing temperatures. Growing the plant under cold or freezing conditions will severely affect its growth rate and development.
Soil requirements
The plant grows in various soil types ranging from sandy, loamy, and clayey soils. The soil should have good water retention capacity, be well-drained and have a pH ranging from 5.8 to 7.0. The soil should be fertile, and adding organic matter such as compost can improve the soil fertility. Optimal soil temperature for growth should be between 20°C - 25°C while the ideal moisture content should be between 40% and 60% of its field capacity.
Cultivation Method for Bidens Scandens L.
Bidens scandens L., commonly known as climbing beggartick, is an attractive climbing plant that is easy to cultivate. It is naturally occurring in wetlands, swamps, and meadows in parts of North America and makes a great addition to any garden or landscape design. To cultivate the plant, start by selecting a well-draining soil and a sunny location as it thrives in full sun or partial shade. Planting can be done by sowing seeds directly into the ground or through transplantation.
If planting by seed, it is best to start them indoors in early spring and transplant them into the garden when the seedlings are 3-4 inches tall. The ideal planting depth is about 1/4 inch deep, and a spacing of 12-18 inches apart should be maintained between the plants. The soil should be kept moist for 1-2 weeks after planting and then periodically watered when necessary.
Watering Needs for Bidens Scandens L.
Bidens scandens L. grows well in wetlands and moist environments, which make the plant's watering needs moderate to high. Watering should be done when the soil seems to be drying out, but attention should be given not to over-water the plant. Over-watering could lead to an increase in pests and diseases that could damage the plant or even kill it. A way to gauge the appropriate amount of water is to check the soil moisture level by inserting a finger into the soil about an inch deep. If it feels dry, it is time to water.
Fertilization of Bidens Scandens L.
Fertilization of Bidens scandens is relatively easy and should be done once or twice a month throughout the growing season. A balanced all-purpose fertilizer can be used to feed the plant, ensuring that the right amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are present. The use of organic fertilizers is also recommended, as they help improve soil health and prevent the accumulation of salts that could damage the plant.
Pruning of Bidens Scandens L.
Bidens scandens L. grows as a vine, so pruning and trellising will be necessary to ensure the plant grows in a controlled and organized manner. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring and may be required throughout the growing season. Deadheading of spent flowers will also encourage the development of new blooms and prevent the plant from becoming too leggy or sprawling. Stems that have broken off or are diseased should be removed immediately to prevent the damage from spreading to other parts of the plant.
Propagation methods for Bidens scandens L.
Bidens scandens L. is commonly known as climbing beggartick or nodding bur-marigold. It is a perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family and is native to North America. Propagation of Bidens scandens can be done by different methods including seed propagation, division, and stem cuttings.
Seed propagation
The easiest way to propagate Bidens scandens is through seeds. The seeds of the plant can be collected in the fall when they turn brown. The seeds should be sown in the spring after the last frost. The seeds need well-draining soil, and they should be covered with a thin layer of soil. The location should have full or partial sunlight.
It takes about 2-3 weeks for the seeds to germinate. Once the seedlings are about 2 inches tall, they can be transplanted to their permanent location. It is important to keep the soil moist throughout the growing period.
Division
Bidens scandens can also be propagated by division. The plant should be divided in the spring before new growth appears. The soil should be moist so that the roots can be easily separated. Each division should have a healthy root system and a good portion of the stem.
The divided plants should be transplanted to their permanent location. It is important to keep the soil moist until the divided plants establish themselves.
Stem cuttings
Bidens scandens can also be propagated by stem cuttings. The best time to take stem cuttings is in the spring or early summer. The stem cuttings should be about 4-6 inches long and have a few leaves on them.
The leaves on the lower portion of the cutting should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped into rooting hormone. The cutting should be placed in well-draining, moist soil, and covered with a clear plastic bag to maintain humidity. The rooting process takes about 4-6 weeks. Once the cutting has established roots, it can be transplanted to its permanent location.
Disease and Pest Management for Bidens scandens L.
Bidens scandens L., commonly known as beggartick, is a hardy plant that can withstand some pest and disease pressures. However, it is still vulnerable to some diseases and pests that can significantly affect its growth and productivity. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Bidens scandens L., and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes dark, circular spots on the plant's leaves. This disease can cause defoliation and reduce the plant's yield. To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy infected plant parts and avoid overhead irrigation that can promote the spread of the fungal spores. Applying fungicides can also help control the disease.
Root Rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the plant's roots, causing them to rot and turn brown. This disease can lead to wilting, stunted growth or death of the plant. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering the plant and make sure it is grown in well-drained soil. Also, remove and destroy infected plant parts and treat the soil with a fungicide.
Pests
Aphids
Aphids are tiny, pear-shaped insects that feed on the plant's sap and cause curling of the leaves. They also attract ants that disrupt the plant's growth and development. To manage aphids, spray the plant with insecticidal soap, neem oil or horticultural oil. Also, introduce natural enemies of aphids like ladybugs and lacewings that feed on them.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the plant's sap, causing yellowing and browning of the leaves. They also spin webs that can cover the plant's leaves and reduce its productivity. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water to wash away the mites and their webs. Also, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill the mites.
Cutworms
Cutworms are caterpillars that feed on the plant's stem, causing it to wilt and die. They hide during the day and come out at night to feed on the plant. To manage cutworms, apply insecticides that contain Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) or spinosad that target caterpillars. Also, use protective collars around young plants to keep cutworms away.
In conclusion, managing diseases and pests is crucial for maintaining the health and productivity of Bidens scandens L. By identifying common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and taking appropriate steps to manage them, you can guarantee a healthy and flourishing plant.
