Coreopsis involucrata Sch.Bip. ex Walp.
Coreopsis involucrata Sch.Bip. ex Walp. is a charming and hardy perennial herb that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This herb is commonly known as the "False Tickseed" or "Broad-Leaved Coreopsis."
Origin
This plant is native to North America, specifically in the Great Plains region. It is also found in Mexico, where it is known as "Ojitos."
Common Names
In addition to False Tickseed and Broad-leaved Coreopsis, this plant is known by other common names such as the Goldenwave, Goldenmane Tickseed, and Giant Tickseed.
Uses
Coreopsis involucrata Sch.Bip. ex Walp. is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes, where it adds a blast of color with its brilliant yellow-gold flowers and green foliage. It is used as a border plant and in mixed flowerbeds.
Its dried flowers and leaves can be used to make tea, which is believed to have medicinal properties that help in treating digestive ailments, colds, and headaches. The flowering tops of this plant were also used by Native Americans as a traditional medicine. It was applied topically as a poultice to treat insect bites, snakebites, and skin ailments.
General Appearance
Coreopsis involucrata Sch.Bip. ex Walp. is a clump-forming perennial herb that grows up to a height of 1 to 3 feet. It has a bushy, upright habit with light-green, pinnately lobed leaves that are up to 6 inches long.
Its yellow-gold flowers appear in bloom from July to September. They are about 2 inches wide and form in clusters at the top of the plant's stems. False Tickseed blossoms resemble daisies, with flat, yellow petals surrounding a small, dark center.
This plant is excellent for pollinators and is a favorite of bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
Light Requirements
Coreopsis involucrata requires full sunlight exposure for growth and optimal flowering. The plant cannot tolerate shade, as it will result in weakened stems and limited flowering capabilities.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures ranging from 20 to 30°C (68 to 86°F). It is a hardy perennial that can tolerate some cold, but it does not do well in extended cold conditions, high humidity, or frost.
Soil Requirements
Coreopsis involucrata prefers well-draining soils with a pH range between 5.8-6.8 for optimal growth. Poorly drained soils can result in root rot. The plant can thrive in a range of soil types, including sandy or loamy soils. Adding organic matter can improve soil fertility, leading to healthier plant growth.
Cultivation Methods for Coreopsis involucrata Sch.Bip. ex Walp.
Coreopsis involucrata Sch.Bip. ex Walp. is a hardy perennial plant that requires little maintenance, making it a great addition to any garden. The plant grows well in USDA zones 4-8 and prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
The plant is typically propagated through seeds, which should be sown in the spring or fall. The seeds should be lightly covered with soil, and the soil should be kept moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes about 10-14 days.
Transplanting can be done after the plant has grown about six inches tall. The plant should be placed in well-draining soil that has been enriched with compost or organic matter.
Watering Needs for Coreopsis involucrata Sch.Bip. ex Walp.
Coreopsis involucrata Sch.Bip. ex Walp. requires moderate watering, especially during the first year of growth. The plant should be watered consistently but should not be overwatered, as this can cause root rot.
The plant prefers well-draining soil, and it's essential to make sure the soil is moist but not saturated. The general rule of thumb is to water the plant deeply once a week or whenever the soil is dry to the touch.
Fertilization for Coreopsis involucrata Sch.Bip. ex Walp.
Coreopsis involucrata Sch.Bip. ex Walp. is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal fertilization. However, adding compost or organic matter during planting can help improve the soil's nutrient content.
If you feel the need to fertilize the plant, use a slow-release fertilizer in the spring. Avoid using too much fertilizer, as this can cause excessive foliage growth and fewer blooms.
Pruning for Coreopsis involucrata Sch.Bip. ex Walp.
Coreopsis involucrata Sch.Bip. ex Walp. requires little pruning, making it an easy plant to care for. However, deadheading the plant after blooming can help promote continuous blooming and prevent the plant from self-seeding.
Alternatively, you can leave the flowers on the plant to allow the plant to reseed and grow naturally. If you prefer a more controlled garden, deadheading the plant is recommended.
Also, prune back the plant by about a third in late fall or early spring to promote new growth and prevent the plant from becoming too leggy and foliage-heavy.
Propagation of Coreopsis involucrata Sch.Bip. ex Walp.
Coreopsis involucrata Sch.Bip. ex Walp. can be easily propagated through seed, division, and stem cuttings.
Propagation through Seeds
Seeds of Coreopsis involucrata can be sown directly in the ground in spring or fall. The seeds should be sown 1/8 inch deep and kept moist until germination, which usually takes 7-14 days. Alternatively, seeds can be started indoors in pots or trays filled with seed starting mix. The pots or trays should be kept under bright light and moist until the seedlings emerge. Once the seedlings have developed their true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots before planting them outdoors.
Propagation through Division
Coreopsis involucrata can be propagated through division in spring or fall. The clumps should be dug up and carefully divided into sections, each with its own set of roots and shoots. The sections can be replanted into prepared soil and watered well.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Coreopsis involucrata can also be propagated using stem cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. The cuttings should be 3-4 inches long and taken from non-flowering shoots. The leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted into a well-draining potting mix. The pot should be covered with a plastic bag or a plastic dome to increase humidity and placed in bright, indirect light. The cuttings should be kept moist until they root, which usually takes 2-4 weeks.
Disease Management for Coreopsis involucrata Sch.Bip. ex Walp.
The plant Coreopsis involucrata Sch.Bip. ex Walp. is relatively disease-resistant. However, some potential diseases that may affect the plant include powdery mildew and fungal leaf spots. These diseases can cause unsightly foliage and reduce plant vigor.
Fungal leaf spots can be controlled by removing and destroying infected plant debris to prevent the proliferation of the fungus. The use of fungicides is not necessary in most cases. Powdery mildew can be controlled using fungicides containing potassium bicarbonate or neem oil. Proper plant spacing and regular pruning can also help in disease management by promoting good air circulation and light penetration.
Pest Management for Coreopsis involucrata Sch.Bip. ex Walp.
The common pests that may affect Coreopsis involucrata Sch.Bip. ex Walp. include aphids, spider mites, and thrips. These pests feed on the plant sap, leading to stunted growth, leaf curling, wilting, and other damage.
Aphids can be controlled by spraying with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Spider mites and thrips can be managed by releasing predatory mites or lacewings that feed on these pest insects. Alternatively, spraying with insecticidal soap or neem oil can provide effective control. Regular monitoring of the plants is crucial to detect pest infestations early and prevent severe damage.
To prevent future pest infestations and reduce the likelihood of diseases, it is recommended to maintain good plant hygiene, remove and dispose of any dead or diseased plant material, and avoid over-fertilizing the plants.
