Description of Coreopsis bigelovii (Gray) Hall
Coreopsis bigelovii, also known as Bigelow's coreopsis, is a beautiful flowering plant in the sunflower family (Asteraceae). The plant is native to California, Arizona, and Nevada in the United States. It was first described in 1886 and named after John Milton Bigelow, an American botanist.
Common Names
Coreopsis bigelovii is commonly known as Bigelow's coreopsis or daisy in the sun. It is also known as Bigelows tickseed.
Appearance
The plant is a perennial herb that grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. The leaves are gray-green and fern-like, with linear to oblong segments that are finely divided. The flowers of the plant are yellow with a dark brown center and have a diameter of 1-2 inches. The flowers bloom from late spring through summer and attract bees and butterflies to the garden.
Uses
Coreopsis bigelovii is a popular garden plant due to its attractive flowers and easy-to-grow nature. The plant is often used as an ornamental plant in garden borders and rock gardens. It is drought-tolerant, making it a great plant for xeriscaping. The leaves and seeds of Coreopsis Bigelovii were used by Native Americans for medicinal purposes such as for pain relief and to reduce fever.
In conclusion, Coreopsis bigelovii is a stunning flowering plant that is easy to grow and widely used in gardens. Its fern-like leaves and yellow flowers make it a beautiful addition to any garden.Light requirements:
Coreopsis Bigelovii prefers full sun to partial shade. It is adapted to growth in hot, dry environments and can tolerate full sun without getting damaged.
Temperature requirements:
Coreopsis Bigelovii can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from low to high. The plant can grow in temperatures as low as 10 degrees Fahrenheit (-12 degrees Celsius) and as high as 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius). However, the ideal temperature range for growth is between 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius) and 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius).
Soil requirements:
Coreopsis bigelovii prefers well-drained soil with a pH range between 6.0 and 7.5. The plant thrives in sandy soil, but it can also grow in clay soil with proper drainage. The availability of nutrients should be checked in advance because the plant does not tolerate soils that are too nutrient-rich. If the soil is not rich enough for the plant, it can be amended with organic matter such as compost or manure. It is important to avoid overwatering to avoid root rot.
Cultivation methods
Coreopsis bigelovii, commonly known as Bigelow's tickseed, is a drought-tolerant perennial plant that thrives in well-drained soils. It is a hardy plant that can grow in full sun or partial shade.
The best time to plant Coreopsis bigelovii is in the spring or fall. You can propagate it from seeds, cuttings, or divisions. If you're starting from seed, plant them in a seedling tray with well-draining soil and keep them moist until they germinate. Once they grow big enough to handle, transplant them to the desired location.
Watering needs
Coreopsis bigelovii is a drought-tolerant plant that doesn't need much water once established. However, it still needs consistent moisture during the first growing season to establish a robust root system.
Water your Coreopsis bigelovii once a week with a deep, thorough soaking. It's best to avoid overhead watering, as it can cause the plant to become susceptible to fungal diseases. Water at the base of the plant, and make sure the soil drains well to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization
Coreopsis bigelovii doesn't require much fertilization. However, if you want to give it a boost, you can use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring. Be careful not to apply too much fertilizer, as it can cause the plant to become leggy and overly lush, which is not healthy for this plant.
Pruning
Coreopsis bigelovii is a low-maintenance plant that doesn't require much pruning. However, pruning it once a year in the spring can help keep the plant from becoming too leggy and maintain a more compact shape. Cut back any dead or damaged stems and remove any faded flowers to encourage more blooming.
Make sure not to cut back the plant too harshly, as it can cause damage to the plant. It's best to prune back up to one-third of the plant's growth every year.
Propagation of Coreopsis bigelovii (Gray) Hall
Coreopsis bigelovii (Gray) Hall, also known as Bigelow's coreopsis or Bigelow's tickseed, is a North American plant species that belongs to the Asteraceae family. Native to the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico, this perennial herbaceous plant is commonly propagated through seeds or cuttings.
Propagation by seeds
Propagation by seeds is the most straightforward and commonly used method for Coreopsis bigelovii. It is also a cost-effective method of propagation. The seeds of the plant are collected in late summer or early fall before the first frost. To maximize seed germination, the collected seeds should be cleaned, dried, and stored in a cool and dry location until planting. The planted seeds require good soil preparation, adequate moisture, and sunlight to germinate successfully. Germination generally occurs within 10 to 14 days after planting. It is essential to thin out the seedlings to avoid overcrowding and encourage plant growth. The new plants will mature and flower within a year.
Propagation by cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is an effective method of propagation for Coreopsis bigelovii. Stem cuttings obtained from a healthy parent plant are the best suited for propagating this species. The best time to take cuttings is during the spring when new growth is emerging. The cuttings should be about six inches long with several nodes. Remove the lower leaves and flowers and dip the bottom end of the stem cutting in rooting hormone powder. Plant the stem cutting using good-quality soil mix in a container or garden bed. Ensure that the cutting receives adequate moisture and bright, indirect light. The roots of the cuttings generally develop within two to four weeks. By the end of the growing season, the new plants will be established and ready to bloom.
Disease and Pest Management for Coreopsis bigelovii (Gray) Hall
Coreopsis bigelovii is a hardy, low-maintenance plant that is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, under the right conditions, the following diseases and pests may affect this plant:
Diseases
1. Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal infection that appears as a white or gray powdery coating on the leaves and stems of the plant. It can stunt growth and cause leaf drop. To manage this disease, remove affected plant parts and increase air circulation around the plant. Additionally, apply fungicides as a preventative measure in early summer.
2. Septoria Leaf Spot: This is a fungal infection that appears as dark spots on the leaves of the plant. It can weaken the plant and cause leaf drop. To manage this disease, remove affected plant parts and increase air circulation around the plant. Additionally, apply fungicides as a preventative measure in early summer.
Pests
1. Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They can cause distorted growth and transmit plant viruses. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
2. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, spider-like pests that suck sap from the plant. They can cause severe yellowing and leaf drop if left untreated. To manage spider mites, increase humidity around the plant and spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
3. Leaf Miners: These are small larvae that tunnel through the leaves of the plant, causing damage and discoloration. To manage leaf miners, remove affected plant parts and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
By implementing these management practices, you can help prevent the spread of diseases and control pests that could damage your Coreopsis bigelovii plant.