Origin
Bidens grantii (Oliv.) Sherff var. scattae Sherff, commonly known as the Scattered Beggar-tick, is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. The plant is native to the southwestern part of the United States and Mexico.
Common Names
Bidens grantii (Oliv.) Sherff var. scattae Sherff is commonly known by several names, including the Scattered Beggar-tick, Grant's Beggartick, Arizona beggartick, as well as many other local names.
Uses
The Scattered Beggar-tick has been used in traditional medicine, particularly by Native American tribes for its anti-inflammatory properties to treat various ailments like arthritis, fever, and other inflammatory conditions. However, there is little scientific research on the potential health benefits of this plant.
Additionally, the plant is a popular ornamental species in gardens and landscaping, thanks to its bright yellow flowers and striking green leaves.
General Appearance
Bidens grantii (Oliv.) Sherff var. scattae Sherff is an annual plant that can grow up to 60 cm tall. The plant has green, thin, and hairless leaves that are typically lanceolate or linear. The flowers of the Scattered Beggar-tick are small, yellow, and daisy-like, featuring a dark center with numerous tiny petals. The fruit of the plant is an achene, which has two sharp barbs that can easily attach to animal fur or clothing, allowing it to spread and proliferate.
Growth Conditions of Bidens grantii (Oliv.) Sherff var. scattae Sherff
Bidens grantii (Oliv.) Sherff var. scattae Sherff is a herbaceous plant that requires optimal growing conditions to reach its full potential. Below are the typical growth conditions for this plant:
Light Requirements
Bidens grantii (Oliv.) Sherff var. scattae Sherff requires partial to full sunlight exposure for at least 6 hours per day. Insufficient lighting may result in stunted growth, poor flowering, and reduced yield. Therefore, it is recommended that the plant be grown in areas with ample sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Bidens grantii (Oliv.) Sherff var. scattae Sherff is between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). The plant is sensitive to frost and freezing temperatures. Therefore, it should be grown in areas with mild temperatures. In areas with low temperatures, provision should be made to protect the plants from cold weather to promote optimal growth.
Soil Requirements
Biens grantii (Oliv.) Sherff var. scattae Sherff grows well in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The pH of the soil should be within the range of 6.0 to 7.5. Additionally, the soil should be adequately irrigated to provide a constant supply of water. Inadequate water supply may result in reduced growth, poor flowering, and reduced yield. Adequate fertilizers that provide essential nutrients should also be applied to the soil to promote optimal growth.
Cultivation methods for Bidens grantii (Oliv.) Sherff var. scattae Sherff
Bidens grantii (Oliv.) Sherff var. scattae Sherff is commonly known as the Scattered Island beggarticks, and it is a herbaceous perennial plant that grows to 1m tall. It is easy to propagate and grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy or loamy soils. To cultivate this plant, you need to:
- Choose a planting location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Prepare a planting hole that is about twice the size of the plant's root ball and mix in some organic compost into the soil.
- Place the plant in the hole and fill the hole with soil while pressing the soil firmly around the roots.
- Water the plant generously.
- Space the plants 50 cm apart.
- Water the plant daily for the first two weeks, then gradually reduce the frequency to once or twice a week until it is fully established.
- Planting Bidens grantii (Oliv.) Sherff var. scattae Sherff is best done in the spring or fall.
Watering needs for Bidens grantii (Oliv.) Sherff var. scattae Sherff
The Scattered Island beggarticks plant requires moderate watering to maintain its growth and health. Here are some tips on watering:
- Water the plant immediately after planting to help the plant establish roots.
- Water the plant regularly during the growing season, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged to avoid damaging the roots.
- Reduce watering to twice a month during the dry winter months.
- Consider using a drip irrigation system to water the plants slowly and efficiently.
Fertilization of Bidens grantii (Oliv.) Sherff var. scattae Sherff
Fertilization is necessary to ensure that your Beggar ticks plant grows strong and healthy. Here are some tips on fertilization:
- Apply a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10 during the growing season at least once a month.
- Use a slow-release fertilizer, such as compost, to avoid plant burns by chemical fertilizers.
- Add some organic matter to the soil to help improve its fertility.
- Avoid overfertilization as it can cause damage to the plant.
- Water the plant after fertilizing to help the nutrients get into the soil better.
Pruning Bidens grantii (Oliv.) Sherff var. scattae Sherff
Pruning helps to improve the growth and overall appearance of the Scattered Island Beggarticks plant. Here are some tips on pruning:
- Prune the plant during the early spring before new growth begins.
- Remove any dead or damaged leaves and branches to rejuvenate the plant.
- Remove any spent flowers to encourage the plant to produce more flowers.
- Pinch back the tips of the plant's stems to promote branching and bushiness.
- Use sharp pruning shears to avoid tearing the plant's branches during pruning.
Propagation methods for Bidens grantii (Oliv.) Sherff var. scattae Sherff
Bidens grantii (Oliv.) Sherff var. scattae Sherff, commonly known as Scatt's beggarticks, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. The plant is native to Africa and it has ornamental value due to its small yellow flowers. It can be propagated by the following methods:
1. Seeds propagation
Scatt's beggarticks can be propagated from seeds that are collected from ripe flower heads. The seeds are small and require careful handling during collection and storage. The seeds can be sown in a potting mix that is moist and well-drained. The ideal temperature for germination is between 18-24°C. The seeds will germinate within 1-3 weeks and the seedlings can be transplanted to their permanent location when they have developed their second set of leaves.
2. Stem cuttings propagation
Scatt's beggarticks can also be propagated from stem cuttings that are taken from the parent plant. The best time to take stem cuttings is during the growing season when the plant has an established root system. The stem cuttings should be taken from healthy and disease-free plants. The cuttings should be about 10 cm long and should have at least two nodes. The cuttings should be planted in a potting mix that is moist and well-drained. The cuttings should be kept in a warm and bright location and should be misted regularly to maintain humidity. The cuttings will develop roots within 2-3 weeks and can be transplanted to their permanent location when they have a well-developed root system.
3. Division propagation
Scatt's beggarticks can also be propagated by division. This method involves dividing the parent plant into smaller sections and planting them in their permanent location. The best time to divide the plant is during the growing season when the plant has an established root system. The plant should be carefully lifted from the soil and the root ball should be divided into smaller sections using a sharp knife or garden shears. Each section should have a well-developed root system and some foliage. The sections can be planted in their permanent location and should be kept moist until they have established a new root system.
Disease Management
Some common diseases that can affect Bidens grantii (Oliv.) Sherff var. scattae Sherff include:
- Fungal Leaf Spots: Symptoms include yellow or brown spots on the leaves that can spread over time. Management: The best method for preventing fungal leaf spots is to ensure proper plant spacing and good air circulation. Affected leaves should be pruned, and any plant debris should be removed from the area. Fungicides can also be used to prevent and control the spread of fungal leaf spots.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease causes a white, powdery covering on the leaves and can lead to stunted plant growth. Management: Regularly inspect plants for the early signs of powdery mildew, which include curling and yellowing leaves, and remove any affected plant parts. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of powdery mildew.
- Root Rot: This fungal disease is caused by waterlogged soil, which leads to the roots becoming rotting and unable to absorb water or nutrients. Management: To prevent root rot, ensure proper drainage and do not overwater the plant. If root rot is detected, the plant should be removed from the soil, and any affected roots should be pruned. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of root rot.
Pest Management
Here are some common pests that can affect Bidens grantii (Oliv.) Sherff var. scattae Sherff:
- Aphids: These small insects feed on the sap of the plant, which can cause leaf distortion and wilting. Management: The use of insecticidal soap can help to control aphids. The soap should be sprayed directly on the insects, and the process may need to be repeated several times over a few weeks to ensure complete eradication.
- Caterpillars: These insects feed on leaves and can defoliate the plant. Management: Hand-picking caterpillars off the plant is the most effective method of control. Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) is a natural bacteria that can be used to control caterpillar populations, and insecticides may also be used as a last resort.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests attack the underside of leaves, causing leaf yellowing and dropping. Management: Spider mites can be controlled by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge them. Insecticidal soaps and miticides can also be used to control populations.
