Plant Description:
Bidens setigera (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff var. lobata Sherff, commonly known as the lobe-leaved tickseed or swamp marigold, is a herbaceous plant belonging to the family Asteraceae. It is a short-lived perennial plant that grows up to 3 feet tall and has bright yellow daisy-like flowers that bloom from May to October. The flowers are 1-2 inches wide and are composed of several ray flowers and disk flowers, which are surrounded by a fringe of thin, green leaves known as bracts.
The stem and branches of the plant are thin and slightly hairy, and the leaves are lobed and toothed with pointed tips. The root system is composed of rhizomes that grow horizontally in the soil and produce clusters of stems and leaves. The plant is native to North America and can be found in wetlands, meadows, and along streams and rivers in the eastern and central United States.
Common Names:
The plant is commonly known as the lobe-leaved tickseed or swamp marigold. Other common names for the plant include cut-leaf biden, lobed bidens, and beggarticks.
Uses:
The Bidens setigera plant has several uses. The Cherokee people use the root of the plant to make a tea that is believed to treat stomach ailments and urinary tract infections. The leaves of the plant can also be used to make a poultice that reduces swelling and inflammation. The plant is also used as a natural dye for fabrics and as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
General Appearance:
Bidens setigera (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff var. lobata Sherff is a herbaceous plant that grows up to 3 feet tall. It has yellow daisy-like flowers with several ray flowers and disk flowers surrounded by thin green bracts. The stem and branches are thin and slightly hairy, and the leaves are lobed and toothed with pointed tips. The plant is native to North America and can be found in wetlands, meadows, and along streams and rivers in the eastern and central United States.
Light Requirements
Bidens setigera var. lobata Sherff typically requires full sunlight for optimal growth. This plant prefers to be exposed to direct sunlight for at least 6-8 hours a day. Lack of sunlight can cause the plant to grow poorly. It is essential to ensure that the surrounding area of the plant is clear of any obstructions that may obstruct sunlight from reaching the plant.
Temperature Requirements
Bidens setigera var. lobata Sherff typically prefers warm to hot temperatures. These plants can tolerate very high temperatures but may struggle in excessively hot or dry conditions. The optimal temperature range should be between 70-85°F. In winters, the temperature should not fall below 50°F.
Soil Requirements
Bidens setigera var. lobata Sherff usually grows in sandy, loamy, or clay soils that offer good drainage. It prefers slightly moist soils and can withstand occasional, temporary flooding. The soil pH range for this plant should be between 5.5 and 7.0. Regularly checking the soil's pH and nutrients can help make sure that the plant is growing to its full potential.
Cultivation Methods
Bidens setigera (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff var. lobata Sherff is a relatively hardy and easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal attention when it comes to cultivation. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and tolerates a variety of soil types, including loamy, sandy, and clay soils. It is best to plant the Bidens setigera in the spring, after the last frost has passed, or in the fall, before the first frost. Ideally, it should be planted in a well-draining location with good air circulation to prevent the onset of fungal diseases.
Watering Needs
Bidens setigera (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff var. lobata Sherff has moderate water needs, and it is important to ensure that the soil is kept moist but not waterlogged. The plant should be watered deeply but infrequently, and the soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. When watering, it is best to direct the water towards the root system of the plant to encourage deep root growth and prevent the onset of fungal diseases on the foliage.
Fertilization
Bidens setigera (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff var. lobata Sherff is a light feeder and does not require excessive fertilization. A balanced, all-purpose fertilizer can be applied once in the early spring and again in the late summer to promote healthy growth and blooming. It is best to avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as this can lead to weak growth and foliage burn.
Pruning
Bidens setigera (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff var. lobata Sherff does not require excessive pruning, but occasional maintenance is recommended to keep the plant looking tidy and healthy. Deadheading spent blooms will encourage the plant to produce more flowers, and light pruning in the fall can help to shape the plant and prepare it for the winter season. It is imperative to avoid heavy pruning, as this can lead to stunted growth and damage the overall health of the plant.
Propagation of Bidens setigera (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff var. lobata Sherff
Bidens setigera (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff var. lobata Sherff, commonly known as western salsify, is a perennial herb native to North America. It produces showy yellow flowers on tall stems. If you're interested in propagating Bidens setigera, you have a few methods to choose from:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Bidens setigera is by seed. The plant produces seeds that can be collected and planted either immediately or stored in a cool dry place until ready for planting. To plant the seeds, scatter them on the surface of a well-draining soil mix or simply press them lightly into the soil. Water gently and keep the soil consistently moist until the seedlings emerge. Seedlings should be transplanted into individual containers when they reach 2-3 inches in height.
Division
Another method of propagating Bidens setigera is by division. In this method, you'll need to carefully dig up an established plant and separate the root ball into two or more sections. Each section should have a healthy root system and at least one stem. Plant each section into well-draining soil and water thoroughly. New growth should emerge in a few weeks.
Root Cuttings
Bidens setigera can also be propagated by root cuttings. This method involves taking a small section of root and planting it horizontally in a well-draining soil mix. Water thoroughly and keep the soil consistently moist. The cutting should begin producing new growth in about 3-4 weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Bidens setigera (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff var. lobata Sherff
Bidens setigera (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff var. lobata Sherff, commonly known as the western sticktight, is a perennial herb that belongs to the family Asteraceae. To ensure that this plant thrives in your garden, it is vital to learn about the common diseases and pests that can affect it and the methods of managing them.
Common Diseases
Western sticktight is not resistant to several fungal and bacterial diseases. Some of the common ones include:
- Powdery Mildew: This appears as a white or grayish coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It can cause the plant to weaken, and its growth can be stunted. To manage this disease, ensure that the plant is adequately spaced and provide proper ventilation. You can also apply sulfur or a fungicide that contains potassium bicarbonate.
- Leaf Spot: This is caused by different fungi and appears as small, dark spots on leaves and stems. These spots can grow and merge, causing the plant's death. To manage this disease, prune and destroy affected parts of the plant, ensure that the plant is adequately spaced, and avoid overhead irrigation to reduce humidity levels.
Common Pests
Bidens setigera has several pests that can attack it, and they include:
- Aphids: These are soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the plant's leaves, causing them to curl and distort. To manage aphids, you can introduce beneficial insects such as ladybugs or lacewings or use insecticides that contain neem oil, insecticidal soap, or pyrethrum.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests feed on the plant's underside, causing the leaves to appear silver or bronze and eventually fall off. To manage spider mites, ensure that the plant is adequately watered and misted, prune and destroy affected parts of the plant, and use insecticides that contain insecticidal soap, neem oil, or pyrethrum.
Remember that prevention is better than cure. Always ensure that your Bidens setigera plant is healthy by providing adequate care such as proper watering, fertilization, and pruning. Regularly monitor your plants for any signs of diseases and pests and take immediate action if you notice anything unusual.
