Introduction:
Bidens schlechteri Sherff, also known as Schlechter's beggarticks, is a species of flowering plant in the family Asteraceae. It is native to Ecuador and can also be found in Peru.Description:
Schlechter's beggarticks is a small, herbaceous plant that typically grows up to 50 centimeters in height. It has green, hairy stems and leaves that are pinnately lobed with toothed margins. The flowers are bright yellow and daisy-like, with an average diameter of about 2 centimeters.Uses:
Traditionally, the leaves and flowers of Bidens schlechteri Sherff have been used in Ecuadorian folk medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including coughs, colds, and fever. The plant has also been used to treat skin infections and wounds.Conclusion:
Bidens schlechteri Sherff is a small, yellow-flowered herbaceous plant native to Ecuador. Its leaves and flowers have been used for medicinal purposes by local communities. This plant may also have potential for scientific research on its medicinal properties.Light Requirements
Bidens schlechteri Sherff requires full to partial sunlight to grow and thrive. Plants that receive adequate sunlight tend to produce more flowers and have a higher chance of thriving than those deprived of sufficient sunlight. Therefore, it is advisable to grow this plant in areas that receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in warm to hot environments. It thrives well in temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C. It is essential to note that temperature significantly affects the growth and development of Bidens schlechteri Sherff. Therefore, during periods of extreme heat, it is crucial to give the plant enough water to prevent it from drying out and wilt.
Soil Requirements
Bidens schlechteri Sherff prefers well-drained soils that are a bit sandy and clayey. The soil should be rich in nutrients, and the pH level should be neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. The plant does not do well in waterlogged soils because it may cause root rot, which may eventually lead to the death of the plant. Therefore, before planting, ensure the soil is well-draining and does not hold water for extended periods.
Cultivation Methods
Bidens schlechteri Sherff, commonly known as Bidens, requires some specific cultivation methods to thrive. The plant is a sun-loving specimen, and it needs a well-drained, rich soil mix for optimum growth. It is recommended to grow the Bidens indoors in containers, where it is in an environment that is much easier to control. The plant does best in warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 26°C.
Watering Needs
Bidens requires slightly moist, but not waterlogged soil. Overwatering can cause root rot, leading to eventual plant death. Watering once a week should suffice, but it is essential to check the moisture level before watering. It is important to note that the Bidens plant is drought tolerant, and it can survive in low humidity areas by absorbing moisture from the environment.
Fertilization
Bidens require regular feeding for optimal growth. Organic fertilizers can be added to the soil in small amounts every two weeks or by using slow-release pellets when planting the Bidens in a pot. A balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 3-1-2 is recommended, and one should avoid over-fertilizing as it will result in weak stems and foliage.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential part of growing Bidens, as it encourages new growth and bushier foliage. Regular pruning should be done on the plant, especially after flowering or at the beginning of the growth season. Pinch the tips of the branches to encourage bushier growth. Deadheading spent flowers will encourage the plant to produce new blooms throughout the growing season.
Propagation of Bidens schlechteri Sherff
Bidens schlechteri Sherff is a herbaceous plant that can be propagated through various methods, including seeds, stem cuttings, and division.
Propagation by Seeds
The most commonly used method to propagate Bidens schlechteri Sherff is by seeds. The seeds are relatively small, with a diameter of 1 mm or less, and can be harvested from the plant's seed heads when they have fully matured. After collecting the seeds, they should be stored in a cool, dry place until ready to be sowed.
Before sowing the seeds, it is recommended to stratify them for at least two weeks to break their dormancy. This can be achieved by placing the seeds in a moistened paper towel and keeping them in the refrigerator at a temperature between 1-5°C. Once the seeds have been stratified, they can be sowed directly into the soil or started indoors in pots.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Another method to propagate Bidens schlechteri Sherff is through stem cuttings. This method involves taking a stem cutting from the parent plant and planting it in a well-draining potting soil. Before planting the cutting, remove any leaves from the lower two-thirds of the stem. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone powder and plant it in the soil, making sure to water it thoroughly.
Place the potted cutting in a warm and humid location and keep the soil moist until roots have developed. Once the cutting has rooted, it can be transplanted into the garden or a larger pot.
Propagation by Division
Bidens schlechteri Sherff can also be propagated by division. This method involves dividing the plant's rhizomes and replanting them. It is best to do this in the spring or fall when the plant is dormant.
To divide the plant, dig up the clump and separate the rhizomes with a sharp knife or garden fork. Each division should have at least one stem and a portion of the root system. Replant the divisions in a well-draining soil and water thoroughly.
Regardless of the propagation method used, it is important to provide Bidens schlechteri Sherff with optimal growing conditions, including adequate sunlight, water, and nutrients, to ensure successful growth and development.
Disease Management
Bidens schlechteri Sherff is a hardy and disease-resistant plant. However, it can be occasionally affected by several fungal and bacterial diseases such as powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot.
Powdery mildew appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves and stem. It weakens the plant by inhibiting photosynthesis. To manage, remove affected plant parts, and use a fungicide that contains potassium bicarbonate, neem oil, or sulfur. Avoid excessive watering and maintain proper air circulation around the plant.
Leaf spot is caused by fungi that leave dark spots on the leaves, and they might drop prematurely. Remove the affected leaves and use a fungicide with copper oxychloride, mancozeb, or tebuconazole. Use preventive measures by avoiding wetting the leaves when watering and applying mulch to prevent fungi from splashing onto the plant.
Root rot is a bacterial infection that causes the roots to rot, leading to the death of the plant. It is brought about by overwatering, insufficient drainage, or the growth of fungi. To manage, remove the affected plant parts, improve drainage, and repot the plant in new soil. Use a fungicide with copper oxychloride, mancozeb, or tebuconazole, and avoid overwatering the plant to prevent the growth of fungi.
Pest Management
Bidens schlechteri is generally resilient to pest infestation. However, it can be susceptible to insect pests such as spider mites and whiteflies.
Spider mites are tiny, sap-sucking insects that can quickly reproduce and infest the plant. They leave white webbing on the leaves and stem, causing the plant to wither. To manage, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or a chemical insecticide that contains azadirachtin or pyrethrin. Remove and dispose of the infested plant parts and keep the plant moist to prevent further infestation.
Whiteflies are also small, sap-sucking insects that leave a sticky, sugary substance on the leaves. They weaken the plant and can transmit viruses. To manage, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or a chemical insecticide that contains pyrethrin or acetamiprid. Remove and dispose of infested plant parts, and keep the plant moist to prevent further infestation.
These pest and disease management strategies will help keep your Bidens schlechteri Sherff plant healthy and thriving.
