Overview
Galinsoga bicolorata St. John & White, also known as bicolor marsh-fleabane or two-colored quickweed, is a member of the Asteraceae family. It is an annual herbaceous plant that grows to an average height of 30–60 cm.
Origin
It is native to the Americas, specifically North and South America. It is found in the United States and Canada from California to Nova Scotia, as well as in South America in Colombia and Ecuador.
Common Names
Besides bicolor marsh-fleabane and two-colored quickweed, this plant is known by many other common names. In South America, it is known as "chirca". In North America, it is called "Galinsoga" or "Gri Gri."
Appearance
The plant's leaves are slightly hairy and are oval or lanceolate with a serrated edge. They are light green on the upper surface and darker on the bottom. The bicolor nature of the plant is evident in its flowers, which are small, white, and yellow. The plant also has a taproot system.
Uses
In certain parts of the world,Galinsoga bicolorata is used as a medicinal herb. It is believed to have several health benefits, including as an anti-inflammatory and to treat eye infections. It is also used as a natural insecticide in some cultures.
Light Requirements
The plant Galinsoga bicolorata St. John & White is typically found in areas that receive full sunlight or partial shade. It can grow in both shaded and open areas with an equal amount of success, but it tends to perform better in open areas with more sunlight. It requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight per day, but it can tolerate up to twelve hours of sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the growth and development of Galinsoga bicolorata St. John & White is between 20°C and 30°C. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C and as high as 40°C, but extreme temperatures can affect its growth and development. The plant is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions, so it is adapted to warm and humid climates.
Soil Requirements
The plant Galinsoga bicolorata St. John & White can grow in various soil types such as sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it prefers well-drained soils with a neutral pH of around 6.5 to 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The plant can tolerate dry soil conditions but grows best in moist soils with good drainage. It can also tolerate slightly saline soil conditions but should not be grown in highly alkaline or acidic soils.
Cultivation of Galinsoga bicolorata St. John & White
Galinsoga bicolorata St. John & White, also known as shaggy soldier or Peruvian daisy, is best grown in loamy, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter and has a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. The plant thrives in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade in areas with hot summers.
The seeds of Galinsoga bicolorata St. John & White must be sown in the soil from late spring to early summer when the temperature is consistently above 15°C. The recommended depth for planting is 1 cm, and the seeds must be spaced about 30cm apart.
Watering Needs of Galinsoga bicolorata St. John & White
Galinsoga bicolorata St. John & White requires regular watering to thrive. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. The plant must be watered early in the morning or late in the evening to protect it from high temperatures during peak hours.
Avoid overhead watering, as this can lead to an increase in fungal diseases. Instead, use a watering can or a drip irrigation system to water the plant at its base.
Fertilization of Galinsoga bicolorata St. John & White
Galinsoga bicolorata St. John & White requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and blooming. Apply a complete fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or a 20-20-20 fertilizer, every four to six weeks during the growing season. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package, and do not overfertilize, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth with few flowers.
Pruning Galinsoga bicolorata St. John & White
Galinsoga bicolorata St. John & White does not require regular pruning, but it can be beneficial to prune the plant if it becomes leggy or unkempt. Prune the plant after blooming has finished, as this promotes new growth and encourages the plant to produce more flowers.
Remove any dead or diseased branches, and cut back up to one-third of the plant's height to encourage bushier growth. Use sharp, clean pruning shears to make clean cuts, and avoid cutting too close to the main stem.
Propagation of Galinsoga bicolorata
Galinsoga bicolorata is a self-fertile annual plant that reproduces solely by seed. However, propagating the plant can be done through various methods, and they are:
Seed propagation
The easiest way to propagate Galinsoga bicolorata is through seed propagation. The plant produces plenty of seeds, which can be harvested when the plant reaches maturity. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil or started in trays before transplanting. The best time to sow the seeds is during the spring season. The seeds require a light to germinate, so it is essential to keep them on the soil surface and not bury them deep in the soil.
Cuttings propagation
Propagation of Galinsoga bicolorata through cuttings is also possible. The process involves taking stem cuttings from the plant and planting them in soil. The stems should be cut from mature plants and placed in soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. The cuttings will eventually produce roots, and new plants will form.
Division propagation
While Galinsoga bicolorata is an annual plant and does not produce bulbs, it can still be propagated through division. This method involves dividing the parent plant into pieces and planting them separately. The best time to do this is during the spring season when the plant is still young. It is essential to ensure that each division has enough root and stem to produce a new plant.
Disease Management
Galinsoga bicolorata St. John & White is relatively resistant to disease, but some common fungal and viral infections can affect the plant.
Fungal Diseases: The plant can be affected by white powdery mildew, which appears as a white coating on the leaves. Plants with powdery mildew should be immediately separated from the healthy ones, and fungicides should be used to control the disease. The soil should also be regularly aerated to prevent fungal growth.
Viral Diseases: The most common viral infection that affects the plant is tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV). Affected plants should be immediately removed from the plantation, and the soil should be treated with appropriate fungicides.
Pest Management
Galinsoga bicolorata St. John & White is also prone to pest infestations, including aphids, leafhoppers, and spider mites.
Aphids: Aphids suck sap from tender plant parts, causing slowed growth and yellowing of leaves. A thorough spraying of insecticidal soap solution can control the aphid population.
Leafhoppers: Leafhoppers feed on the sap of the plant, causing leaf discoloration and curling. The use of insecticidal soap mixed with neem oil can effectively control the leafhopper population.
Spider Mites: Spider mites appear as tiny moving dots on the undersides of leaves. They damage plants by sucking the sap causing yellowing, and browning of leaves. The use of insecticidal soap solution can be effective for mite control.
Regular observation of the plants can help in early detection and management of pests. Infected plants should be removed immediately, and pesticides used judiciously to avoid environmental contamination or pest resistance development.
