Overview
Bidens steppia (Steetz) Sherff var. kalamboensis Sherff is a plant that is commonly known as the Kalambo river beggarticks. It is a type of perennial herb that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to Zambia, specifically found along the Kalambo river.
General Appearance
The Kalambo river beggarticks is a small plant that grows up to 20-60 cm tall. It has long branching stems that spread horizontally as they grow. The leaves are dark green, narrow, and have serrated edges. The plant produces small flower heads that are yellow in color and have a diameter of 6-8 mm.
Common Names
The Bidens steppia (Steetz) Sherff var. kalamboensis Sherff is commonly known as the Kalambo river beggarticks.
Uses
The Kalambo river beggarticks is not extensively used for medicinal purposes, but it is commonly used for culinary purposes. The young leaves and stems are used in traditional Zambian cuisine as a vegetable. The plant is also used to help with soil erosion control along riverbanks.
Growth Conditions for Bidens steppia (Steetz) Sherff var. kalamboensis Sherff
Light: Bidens steppia (Steetz) Sherff var. kalamboensis Sherff requires full sun to grow properly. It is not recommended to grow this plant in shaded areas or partial sun.
Temperature: This plant requires warm temperatures to grow and thrive. The ideal temperature range is between 18°C to 24°C. It cannot tolerate freezing temperatures and may die in extreme cold conditions.
Soil Requirements: Bidens steppia (Steetz) Sherff var. kalamboensis Sherff thrives well in soils with good drainage. The soils should be rich in organic matter and slightly acidic (pH 5.5 to 6.5). This plant can also grow in sandy or loamy soils as long as there is sufficient drainage.
Water: This plant needs a moderate amount of water to grow and thrive. Watering should be done once a week, but this may vary depending on the soil conditions and weather.
Fertilizer: Bidens steppia (Steetz) Sherff var. kalamboensis Sherff does not require regular fertilization. However, adding a slow-release fertilizer during planting can improve growth and plant health.
Propagation: This plant can be propagated through seed or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and kept moist until germination. Cuttings should be taken during the growing season and placed in well-aerated soil.
Cultivation methods
Bidens steppia (Steetz) Sherff var. kalamboensis Sherff is a perennial plant that needs a warm and sunny position in the garden. It thrives well in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers soil that has a pH of 6.5-7.5. It is best to plant the Bidens steppia (Steetz) Sherff var. kalamboensis Sherff during the spring or early summer.Watering needs
The Bidens steppia (Steetz) Sherff var. kalamboensis Sherff requires moderate watering to thrive well. During the growing season, it is necessary to keep the soil moist by watering the plant regularly. Also, you should avoid watering the plant too frequently as it may lead to root rot.Fertilization
The Bidens steppia (Steetz) Sherff var. kalamboensis Sherff plant requires regular fertilization to ensure healthy growth. It is recommended to apply a slow-release fertilizer every four to six weeks during the growing season. The fertilizer should be rich in potassium and phosphorus, as these nutrients are essential for flowering.Pruning
Pruning Bidens steppia (Steetz) Sherff var. kalamboensis Sherff is essential to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Deadheading the plant ensures continuous blooming. You should also remove any excessively long or weak branches to prevent the plant from becoming overcrowded. Pruning should be done during the dormant season to allow the plant to recover and regenerate new growth.Propagation of Bidens Steppia (Steetz) Sherff var. Kalamboensis Sherff
Bidens steppia (Steetz) Sherff var. kalamboensis Sherff is a beautiful and rare variety of Bidens, which is native to East Africa. It is a perennial herb that can grow up to 60 cm tall. The plant is characterized by its small and delicate yellow flowers that bloom in clusters. Its leaves are simple and alternate, with a toothed margin.
Propagation of Bidens steppia (Steetz) Sherff var. kalamboensis Sherff can be achieved through several methods, including:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Bidens steppia (Steetz) Sherff var. kalamboensis Sherff is through seed propagation. Collect the seeds once the flower heads dry up and turn brown. Sow the seeds in a seed tray filled with a well-draining potting mix. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and mist them with water. Keep the tray in a warm and bright location, and ensure that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. The seeds should germinate in 2-3 weeks, and once they have developed their first true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Division
Propagation through division is best done in the spring. Carefully dig up the plant, ensuring that you do not damage the roots. Gently separate the clumps, ensuring that each division has some roots attached. Plant the new divisions in well-draining soil, and water them well. Place the new plants in a warm and bright location, and ensure that the soil remains moist until they become established.
Cuttings
Propagation through stem cuttings is possible but requires particular care. Take cuttings of about 10-15 cm from the parent plant, ensuring that there are at least two nodes on each cutting. Remove the bottom leaves and dip the cuttings in rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix, and water them well. Place the cuttings in a warm and bright location, and keep the soil moist. After about 4-6 weeks, the cuttings should have developed roots and can be transplanted into individual pots.
Overall, propagating Bidens steppia (Steetz) Sherff var. kalamboensis Sherff requires patience, care, and attention to detail. Whether through seed propagation, division, or cuttings, with the right care, this stunning plant can easily be propagated and enjoyed by any gardener.
Disease Management
Bidens steppia var. kalamboensis is prone to fungal and bacterial diseases, especially in humid environments. Here are some common diseases that might affect the plant and suggestions on how to manage them:
Botrytis Blight
Botrytis blight is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and stems of the plant. It causes brown spots on the leaves, and the stems start to blacken and decay. To manage this disease, remove the infected parts of the plant and make sure to have proper ventilation around the plant.
Rust
Rust is a fungal disease that causes orange or brown spots on the leaves. The leaves may also become distorted and start to curl. To manage this disease, remove the infected parts of the plant and use a fungicide to control the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Aside from diseases, Bidens steppia var. kalamboensis may also attract pests. Here are some common pests that might affect the plant and suggestions on how to manage them:
Spider Mites
Spider Mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from the plant causing it to look weak and sickly. In severe infestations, leaves may fall off. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oil.
Thrips
Thrips are tiny insects that are hard to see with the naked eye. They cause damage to the plant by sucking sap causing yellow spots on the leaves. Thrips also cause the plant to stop growing and look unhealthy. To manage thrips, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oil.
