Coreopsis lanceolata L. var. villosa Michx.
Coreopsis lanceolata L. var. villosa Michx. is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is a variation of the Coreopsis lanceolata L. species and is commonly known as Sandhills Tickseed or Lanceleaf Tickseed. The plant is native to North America and can be found in the eastern and central parts of the United States.
Appearance
The Sandhills Tickseed grows up to 60 cm in height and 45 cm in width. The plant has a deep taproot system that provides strong support, and it has upright stems that are covered in fine hairs. The plant has narrow lance-shaped leaves that are green in color and are up to 10 cm long. The flowers of Sandhills Tickseed are bright yellow and are up to 5 cm in diameter. The plant blooms in late spring and early summer.
Uses
The Sandhills Tickseed is a popular plant in gardens and landscaping because of its bright yellow flowers and its ability to attract butterflies and bees. In addition, the plant has medicinal properties and has been used by Native Americans to treat various ailments, such as fever and stomach disorders. The Sandhills Tickseed also has potential as a bioenergy crop because of its high oil content, which can be used to produce biodiesel.
Light requirements
Coreopsis lanceolata var. villosa typically prefers full sun exposure to partial shade. Exposure to direct sunlight is crucial for its growth and development. In areas with hot summers, it can tolerate some shade during afternoon hours to prevent wilting and leaf scorching. Insufficient light conditions can lead to slow growth and reduced flowering.
Temperature requirements
This plant thrives in a temperate climate and can tolerate exposure to cold temperatures. It grows well in regions with warm summers and mild winters. The optimal temperature range for its growth is between 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. At night, temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit do not harm the plant. However, extreme temperature fluctuations can impede its growth.
Soil requirements
Coreopsis lanceolata var. villosa is not very demanding when it comes to soil type. It grows well in a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, good drainage is essential for its growth. The soil should not be waterlogged as this can lead to root rot and other diseases. It prefers soil with a pH range between 6.0 and 7.0. Adding organic matter like compost can improve the soil's fertility and texture, promoting optimal growth.
Cultivation methods for Coreopsis lanceolata L. var. villosa Michx.
Coreopsis lanceolata L. var. villosa Michx. thrives in well-drained soil and full sun exposure. It’s ideal to plant in the spring after the threat of frost has passed. The plant grows up to 2 feet tall and wide and has a moderate growth rate.
It’s easy to grow and maintain. Plant it in a location with well-draining soil, and you won’t have to worry much about moisture. In a favorable environment, it requires minimal care.
Watering needs for Coreopsis lanceolata L. var. villosa Michx.
Coreopsis lanceolata L. var. villosa Michx. doesn’t need much water and can tolerate drought conditions. The plant needs watering once a week, but that too depends on the conditions of the soil and the environment.
Make sure that the soil is well-drained as excessive watering can cause root rot. Try not to water from the top as the water can attract fungal diseases. Instead, water the plants around the base or use a drip irrigation system for optimal results.
Fertilization for Coreopsis lanceolata L. var. villosa Michx.
Coreopsis lanceolata L. var. villosa Michx. doesn’t need much fertilization. You can add compost or well-rotted manure to the soil before planting, but it’s not required.
Over fertilization can cause the plant to produce too much foliage and fewer flowers. You can add a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring if you feel like the plant needs it.
Pruning for Coreopsis lanceolata L. var. villosa Michx.
Coreopsis lanceolata L. var. villosa Michx. doesn’t require pruning as such, but it’s good to cut the plant back to one-third of its height in the summer. This will encourage new growth and more flowers to bloom.
You can also cut back the dead or diseased stems as soon as you notice them to maintain the plant’s health. This will prevent the diseases from spreading to other parts of the plant.
Propagation of Coreopsis lanceolata L. var. villosa Michx.
Coreopsis lanceolata L. var. villosa Michx. is a perennial plant that is commonly propagated through asexual methods such as division and stem cuttings. This allows gardeners to produce new plants that are genetically identical to the parent plant.
Division
Division is a simple method of propagation that involves separating the plant's root ball into smaller sections and replanting them. This method is best done in the spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing. To do this, dig up the entire plant and carefully separate the roots into smaller sections using a sharp knife or garden shears. Each section should have a healthy shoot and a good root system. Replant the sections in well-drained soil at the same depth as the original plant and water thoroughly.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings involve taking a piece of stem from the plant and rooting it to create a new plant. This method is best done in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. To do this, take a 3 to 4-inch cutting from the parent plant, making sure it has at least one node (where the leaves attach to the stem). Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix, water thoroughly, and cover with a plastic bag to create a humid environment. Place the pot in a bright, but not direct, location and keep the soil moist. After a few weeks, the cutting should develop roots and can be transplanted into the garden.
Disease Management
Coreopsis lanceolata L. var. villosa Michx. is generally a hardy plant that's not highly susceptible to diseases. However, the following are some of the common diseases that may affect the plant:
Fungal Diseases
Fungal diseases like powdery mildew and leaf spot can affect the plant. Powdery mildew is a fungal infection that causes a white powdery coating on the leaves, whereas leaf spot is caused by a fungus that results in dark spots on the leaves. To manage fungal infections, use a fungicide spray as soon as you notice any symptoms. Ensure you cover both sides of the leaves and follow the instructions on the fungicide label.
Bacterial Diseases
Bacterial diseases like bacterial wilt can also affect the plant. Bacterial wilt results in yellowing of the leaves and wilting of the plant. Unfortunately, there is no cure for bacterial infections. Hence, the best management option is prevention. Ensure you plant healthy seedlings and avoid overwatering the plant as this can create a prime environment for bacteria to thrive.
Pest Management
Although Coreopsis lanceolata L. var. villosa Michx is generally not highly susceptible to pest infestations, it can still be affected by the following pests:
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny insects that can cause yellowing of leaves and fine webbing on the plant. You can manage spider mites by spraying insecticidal soap on the plant, ensuring you cover both sides of the leaves.
Aphids
Aphids are sap-sucking insects that can cause stunted growth, yellowing of leaves and a general decline in plant health. To control aphids, spray the plant with a strong stream of water to knock off the insects or use an insecticidal soap.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars are known to chew on the foliage of Coreopsis lanceolata L. var. villosa Michx. To control caterpillars, pick them off the plant or use a Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticide. Bt insecticides are safe and organic.
