Origin
The Coreopsis grandiflora Hogg ex Sweet var. longipes (Hook.) Torr. & Gray, commonly known as the long-stalked tickseed, is native to central and eastern North America. It can be found growing naturally in prairies, meadows, and along roadsides in states such as Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri, and Arkansas.
Common Names
Aside from the long-stalked tickseed, the plant is also known as the Coreopsis lanceolata var. longipes and the Tickseed.
Appearance
The long-stalked tickseed has bright yellow flowers that bloom from June to September. The flowers are daisy-like, with a diameter of up to two inches, and have a dark center. The leaves of this plant are lance-like in shape and have a hairy texture. Long-stalked tickseed is often 18-30 inches tall and spreads slowly.
Uses
The long-stalked tickseed is an excellent plant for attracting pollinators, such as butterflies and bees, to your garden. It is also known for its medicinal properties, as it contains phytochemicals that have anti-inflammatory properties. Some Native American tribes used tickseed as a remedy for ailments such as asthma, gonorrhea, and stomachaches.
In addition to its ornamental and medicinal uses, long-stalked tickseed is also used in prairie garden restorations as it is native to this region. It is relatively easy to grow, tolerates drought, and requires little maintenance, making it a popular choice amongst gardeners.
Overview of Coreopsis grandiflora Hogg ex Sweet var. longipes (Hook.) Torr. & Gray
Coreopsis grandiflora Hogg ex Sweet var. longipes (Hook.) Torr. & Gray is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is commonly known as "longstalk tickseed" and is native to North America. It is a popular garden plant that is cultivated for its attractive yellow flowers.
Light Requirements
Coreopsis grandiflora Hogg ex Sweet var. longipes (Hook.) Torr. & Gray prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers in low light conditions. In order to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering, it is recommended to plant this species in an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
Coreopsis grandiflora Hogg ex Sweet var. longipes (Hook.) Torr. & Gray is adaptable to a wide range of temperatures. It can grow well in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 9, which corresponds to an average minimum temperature range of -30 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit (-34 to -1 degrees Celsius). However, it prefers moderate temperatures between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 24 degrees Celsius). Extreme temperature fluctuations or consistently high temperatures may cause stress to the plant and affect its growth and flowering.
Soil Requirements
Coreopsis grandiflora Hogg ex Sweet var. longipes (Hook.) Torr. & Gray prefers well-drained soil that is fertile and slightly acidic to neutral in pH. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, but will not thrive in poorly drained or heavy soils. Additionally, adding organic matter such as compost to the soil can help to improve soil fertility and moisture retention, which can promote healthy growth and flowering.
Cultivation
The plant Coreopsis grandiflora Hogg ex Sweet var. longipes (Hook.) Torr. & Gray is sun-loving and prefers well-drained soil. Therefore, it is essential to place the plant in an area with full sun exposure and adequate drainage. The ideal soil type for this plant is sandy or loamy soil, but it can tolerate other soil types as well.
It is advisable to plant Coreopsis grandiflora Hogg ex Sweet var. longipes (Hook.) Torr. & Gray in the spring or fall. The plant usually grows to a height of 1-2 feet and spreads to 1-2 feet. Proper spacing between the plants is crucial for optimal growth of the plant. The recommended spacing is at least 18-24 inches apart.
Watering Needs
Coreopsis grandiflora Hogg ex Sweet var. longipes (Hook.) Torr. & Gray requires regular watering during the initial stages of growth. This aids in the development of a robust root system. Once established, the plant can tolerate drought. Overwatering should be avoided, as it can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
It is essential to water the plant at its base, avoiding the foliage. Watering early in the day or in the evening is recommended to prevent the plant from losing moisture through evaporation during the hottest parts of the day.
Fertilization
Coreopsis grandiflora Hogg ex Sweet var. longipes (Hook.) Torr. & Gray is a low maintenance plant that does not require much fertilization. However, adding fertilizer during the initial stages of growth can boost its development. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied once a year in the spring is sufficient. Excessive use of fertilizer should be avoided, as it can lead to weak stems and foliage.
Pruning
Coreopsis grandiflora Hogg ex Sweet var. longipes (Hook.) Torr. & Gray does not require extensive pruning. Deadheading or removing spent flowers can encourage the plant to rebloom. It is advisable to prune back the plant in the early spring to encourage fresh growth. The plant can be trimmed to about 6 inches above the ground level. Pinching back the plant once or twice during the growing seasons can help avoid legginess and promote bushiness.
Propagation of Coreopsis grandiflora Hogg ex Sweet var. longipes (Hook.) Torr. & Gray
Coreopsis grandiflora Hogg ex Sweet var. longipes (Hook.) Torr. & Gray, commonly known as "Big-flowered tickseed," is a beautiful perennial plant that grows well in USDA hardiness zones 4-9.
Propagation Methods
There are several methods of propagating Coreopsis grandiflora Hogg ex Sweet var. longipes (Hook.) Torr. & Gray. These include:
1. Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method for propagating Coreopsis grandiflora Hogg ex Sweet var. longipes (Hook.) Torr. & Gray. The seeds of this plant are small and can be easily sown directly into the soil in the spring or fall. However, it is important to note that the germination rate of the seeds can be quite low, so it is advisable to sow more seeds than you need.
2. Division
Coreopsis grandiflora Hogg ex Sweet var. longipes (Hook.) Torr. & Gray can also be propagated by division. This method involves separating the plant's root ball into smaller sections and replanting them. This is typically done in the spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing. Dividing the plant every 3-4 years can help to keep it healthy and vigorous.
3. Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings involves taking a stem cutting from the parent plant and rooting it to produce a new plant. This method is more challenging with Coreopsis grandiflora Hogg ex Sweet var. longipes (Hook.) Torr. & Gray compared to seed propagation and division. Cuttings can be taken in early summer when the plant is in active growth. It is recommended to use a rooting hormone when propagating using cuttings to increase the chances of success.
These are the propagation methods for Coreopsis grandiflora Hogg ex Sweet var. longipes (Hook.) Torr. & Gray. Choosing the appropriate method is essential for successfully propagating the plant.
Disease Management
Coreopsis grandiflora Hogg ex Sweet var. longipes (Hook.) Torr. & Gray is generally a hardy plant, but it can still suffer from a few diseases, such as:
- Fungal leaf spots: These spots usually appear as yellow or brown lesions with dark edges on the leaves. They occur due to high humidity levels, leaf wetness, and warm growing conditions. To manage them, ensure proper air circulation around the plant, remove infected leaves, and apply a fungicide.
- Crown rot: Crown rot is a soil-borne fungal disease that causes the roots and crown to rot, leading to the plant's death. To manage this disease, ensure good soil drainage, avoid splashing water on the crown while watering, and remove the infected plant and soil.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers. It usually occurs in humid or damp environments. To manage it, remove the infected plant parts, improve air circulation around the plant, and apply a fungicide.
Pest Management
Coreopsis grandiflora Hogg ex Sweet var. longipes (Hook.) Torr. & Gray is also susceptible to a few pests, such as:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage them, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or introduce natural predators like ladybugs.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny, eight-legged creatures that cause yellowing and speckling on the plant leaves. They thrive in dry environments. To manage them, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or introduce natural predators like ladybugs.
- Slugs and snails: Slugs and snails are mollusks that feed on the plant's leaves, causing large holes and damage. To manage them, set up slug traps, sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the plant, or introduce natural predators like nematodes, ground beetles, and birds.
Regular inspection and proper plant care can help prevent and manage both diseases and pests affecting the Coreopsis grandiflora Hogg ex Sweet var. longipes (Hook.) Torr. & Gray plant, ensuring its healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
