Overview: Bidens ternata (Chiov.) Sherff var. vatkei (Sherff) Mesfin
Bidens ternata (Chiov.) Sherff var. vatkei (Sherff) Mesfin, commonly known as swamp marigold, is a perennial plant species that belongs to the family Asteraceae.
Origin:
Swamp marigold is predominantly found in East Africa, particularly in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Tanzania.
General Appearance:
Swamp marigold bears attractive bright yellow petals that encircle the center of the flower. The plant typically grows to a height of 0.7-1 meter. The stems are often woody and thick, while the leaves are usually pinnately dissected with lanceolate leaflets.
Common Names:
Swamp marigold is known by many names such as Ojo agbado in Nigeria, Thu?t plamnatý in the Czech Republic, and in Tanzania, it is referred to as the Swahili name, 'mvumbuji.'
Uses:
Swamp marigold has a wide range of uses in traditional medicine. The plant extract is used to relieve pain, inflammation, and improve digestive function. The roots and leaves extract are known to contain antibacterial and antifungal properties. In addition, it is also used to treat wounds and skin irritations.
As an indigenous plant species, swamp marigold has also been used to enrich the soil and control erosion.
Therefore, Bidens ternata (Chiov.) Sherff var. vatkei (Sherff) Mesfin is a valuable plant species that provides medicinal and ecological benefits to its environment.Growth Conditions for Bidens ternata (Chiov.) Sherff var. vatkei (Sherff) Mesfin
Bidens ternata (Chiov.) Sherff var. vatkei (Sherff) Mesfin is a plant species that is indigenous to Ethiopia, Somalia, and Kenya. The plant belongs to the Asteraceae family and typically grows to a height of 30cm (1ft).
Light Requirements
Bidens ternata (Chiov.) Sherff var. vatkei (Sherff) Mesfin thrives best in bright indirect light. The plant requires a minimum of four hours of direct light daily, but protection from direct sunlight during the hot summer afternoons is necessary. Inadequate light exposure can cause the plant's leaves to curl, develop dark spots, or wilt.
Temperature Requirements
Bidens ternata (Chiov.) Sherff var. vatkei (Sherff) Mesfin grows best in average temperature conditions that range from 21-27°C (70-80°F). The plant does not do well in extreme heat or low temperatures, which can cause the leaves to yellow and fall off. Protecting the plant from colder drafts is also necessary, as the specimen prefers a consistent temperature.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil type for Bidens ternata (Chiov.) Sherff var. vatkei (Sherff) Mesfin is well-draining and loose. The plant prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH balance between 5.5 and 7.5. The soil should maintain consistent moisture but not be waterlogged, as this can cause the roots to rot. The addition of organic matter can improve the soil quality and nourish the plant for optimal growth.
Cultivation Methods
Bidens ternata (Chiov.) Sherff var. vatkei (Sherff) Mesfin thrives in full sun to partial shade. It is adaptable to different soil types, but prefers well-draining soils. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and spread up to 2 feet wide. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11, but can be grown as an annual in colder regions.
Watering Needs
Bidens ternata (Chiov.) Sherff var. vatkei (Sherff) Mesfin prefers evenly moist soil. Water the plant deeply once a week, and more frequently during hot and dry weather conditions. Avoid overwatering as this can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to the plant during the growing season. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer label for application rates and frequency. Alternatively, you can use a liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season.
Pruning
Bidens ternata (Chiov.) Sherff var. vatkei (Sherff) Mesfin doesn't require regular pruning. However, you can remove old, dead, or diseased stems as needed. Additionally, you can pinch the tips of the stems to encourage a bushier growth habit. This plant can self-seed, so if you want to prevent this, remove the spent flowers before they turn into seeds.
Propagation of Bidens ternata (Chiov.) Sherff var. vatkei (Sherff) Mesfin
Bidens ternata (Chiov.) Sherff var. vatkei (Sherff) Mesfin, commonly known as Three-lobed beggarticks, is a plant species belonging to the family Asteraceae. It is a perennial herb that grows up to 30-60 cm tall and is native to Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Propagation of this plant is usually done through the following methods:
Seed Propagation
The easiest way to propagate Three-lobed beggarticks is through seed propagation. The seeds collected from the plant can be sown at any time of the year. However, the best time to sow the seeds is during spring or early summer. The seeds can be sown directly into the ground or in a container. When sowing the seeds, it is important to make sure they are covered with a thin layer of soil. Keep the soil moist and seeds will germinate in 1 to 2 weeks. Transplant the seedlings when they are large enough to handle.
Digital Propagation
Digital propagation is another method that can be used to propagate Bidens ternata. It is usually done during the early spring or summer seasons. To propagate the plant digitally, select a healthy plant and cut the stems close to the main stem. The length of the cutting should be about 10 cm. Then remove the leaves except for two to three at the top. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone and plant it in the potting mix. Cover it with a plastic bag or place it in a propagator to maintain humidity. The cutting will develop roots within 2-3 weeks.
Division
Division is a propagation method that is usually done during spring or early summer. To propagate Bidens ternata by division, dig up the plant and remove any dead or old roots. Using a spade or a knife, divide the plant into smaller sections with a healthy shoot and root system. Once the division is done, plant them in suitable pots or in the garden, and water them well. Keep the soil moist until they establish their roots, a process that takes about 2-3 weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Bidens ternata var. vatkei
The plant Bidens ternata var. vatkei, also known as the Ethiopian beggarticks, is a hardy species that is fairly resistant to pests and diseases. However, some common issues that this plant might face include:
Leaf Spot and Blight diseases
Leaf spot and blight diseases are caused by fungal pathogens that attack the foliage of the Ethiopian beggarticks. These diseases can cause defoliation, weaken the plant and reduce its yield. To manage these issues, it is crucial to remove any infected leaves and branches immediately, and use a copper fungicide to prevent the spread of the disease. Also, avoid over-watering the plant as this can create favorable conditions for fungal growth.
Root Rot
Root rot is caused by overwatering and poor drainage. This disease can result in yellowing of leaves, wilting of the plant and even death. To manage this, reduce daily watering of the plant and ensure the soil is well-drained. Transplanting the plant to another location with a better drainage system can also be helpful.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars can cause damage to the foliage, stems and even the flowers of Ethiopian beggarticks. Preventing them from getting to your plant is the most effective method overall. You can use safe and natural methods such as spraying the plant with neem oil or handpicking the caterpillars before they become a problem. Alternatively, use a biological control such as Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (BTI), which can kill caterpillars and other harmful insects.
Aphids
Aphids suck the sap of plants and can cause deformities in the leaves, stunted growth, and reduction in the yield. To manage these pests, you should regularly inspect your beggarticks and remove any aphids manually. Using a strong stream of water to dislodge aphids is also very effective in preventing them from returning.
Overall, the most essential thing to do when dealing with diseases and pests is to practice preventive measures like maintaining proper hygiene and taking good care of your plants, rather than waiting for them to be attacked by pests.
