Origin and Common Names
Bidens kirkii (Oliv. & Hiern) Sherff, commonly known as Kirk's beggarticks, is a perennial herb native to Africa. It is found in countries such as Kenya, Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda. The plant usually grows in wet areas like swamps, riverbanks, and marshes. The common name "beggarticks" comes from the prickly nature of the fruits that stick to clothing and animal fur.
Appearance
Bidens kirkii is a herbaceous plant that can reach up to 1.5 meters in height. Its stems are erect, robust, and green in color. The leaves are pinnately divided and toothed, growing up to 15 cm long and 10 cm wide. The plant produces small yellow flowers that bloom from August to October. The fruits are small, curved achenes with two barbed awns, which are responsible for the plant's ability to disperse in different locations.
Uses
Bidens kirkii has various medicinal uses in Africa. The roots and leaves are used to treat various diseases such as malaria, fever, and respiratory tract infections. It is also used as a painkiller and anti-inflammatory agent to relieve joint and muscle pain. Additionally, the plant holds cultural importance among some communities, where it is traditionally used in spiritual rituals and to ward off evil spirits.
The plant also has some economic importance. The seeds of bidens kirkii are a source of oil, which can be used in cooking, lighting, and soap making. The plant can also be used in manufacturing organic insecticides and herbicides.
Growth Conditions of Bidens Kirkii
Bidens kirkii is an evergreen perennial plant that has unique growth conditions. The ideal conditions for growth should mimic that of its native habitat in East Africa. Below are some of the significant growth conditions to consider when cultivating Bidens kirkii:
Light Requirements
Bidens kirkii thrives in full sun or partial shade conditions. It requires bright, indirect sunlight to bloom correctly. Direct sunlight may scorch the leaves, leading to stunted growth and wilted plants. It would be best to place the plant in a location where it can receive sunlight for at least 4-6 hours a day.
Soil Requirements
Bidens kirkii requires soil that is moist and well-drained. It also needs a soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. Ideally, a potting mixture that includes equal parts of peat, perlite, and sand is best for this plant. The soil should also be rich in organic matter and able to retain moisture without becoming excessively wet.
Water Requirements
Bidens kirkii requires plenty of water during the growing season. The soil should be kept uniformly moist without becoming waterlogged. The plant can tolerate short periods of drought, but extended dry periods may damage the plant and affect its growth. It is essential to water the plant regularly, especially during the dry season.
Temperature Requirements
Bidens kirkii thrives in tropical and subtropical regions, where temperatures range from 18 to 30 degrees Celsius. It is a heat-loving plant that cannot tolerate frost or cold temperatures. Ideally, it should be grown in temperatures of between 21°C to 27°C. With cooler temperatures, the plant may experience stunted growth and reduced flowering.
Fertilizer Requirements
Bidens kirkii requires regular feeding with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. It is essential to fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season. The fertilizer should be mixed with water and applied to the soil around the plant's base. Too much fertilizer can lead to excessive foliage growth, reducing the plant's flower production.
By understanding and providing the ideal growth conditions, Bidens kirkii can thrive and provide a beautiful ornamental display in your garden or home.
Cultivation Methods
Bidens kirkii is an easy-to-grow perennial plant that thrives in various conditions, including full sunlight and partial shade. The plant does well in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. Before planting, ensure you loosen the soil to a depth of about 10 inches to promote good root development.
You can propagate Bidens kirkii through stem cuttings or seeds. If starting from seeds, sow them in a seed-starting tray filled with moist soil, then transplant the seedlings after about six weeks when they have developed enough roots.
Ensure that you space out the plants about 12 inches apart to allow for adequate airflow and prevent overcrowding.
Watering Needs
Bidens kirkii requires regular watering to thrive. Water the plant deeply about once a week during the growing season, especially during hot and dry periods. However, ensure that you don't overwater as this may cause root rot and other fungal diseases.
It is best to water the plant at the base to avoid wetting the foliage, which can attract pests and diseases.
Fertilization
Applying a balanced fertilizer for flowering plants can help promote healthy growth and abundant blooms. You can fertilize Bidens kirkii with a slow-release granular fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season, then again in mid-summer.
Also, top-dressing with compost or aged manure can help improve soil fertility and add essential nutrients to the plant.
Pruning
Pruning Bidens kirkii helps keep the plant compact and promotes bushy growth. You can pinch the tips of young plants when they reach about six inches tall to encourage branching and more flowers.
Also, removing spent flowers and deadheading can help prolong the blooming period and prevent self-seeding. However, avoid cutting back more than one-third of the plant's height at a time, as this can stress the plant and reduce overall growth and vigor.
Propagation Methods for Bidens kirkii (Oliv. & Hiern) Sherff
Bidens kirkii (Oliv. & Hiern) Sherff is commonly known as the Kirk's beggarticks, a perennial herb endemic to Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. It grows well in wet habitats such as swampy areas, river banks, and bogs. Here are the propagation methods for Bidens kirkii:
Seed Propagation Method
One of the easiest ways to propagate Bidens kirkii is through seeds. The seeds can be obtained from the mature flowers. They should be planted during the wet seasons in a well-prepared seedbed. The seedbed should be previously dug and fertilized with well-rotted manure. The seedbed should also be watered regularly until the seeds have germinated. The seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots or the open field when they are strong enough.
Division Propagation Method
Bidens kirkii can also be propagated by division. This method involves separating the plant into smaller pieces and replanting them. It is ideal for an already mature and established plant. The roots and rhizomes of the plant should be carefully dug up, and the clumps should be divided into sections, each containing a viable shoot or stem. Replant the divided plant in fertile, well-draining soil and regularly water and fertilize until the plant establishes.
Cutting Propagation Method
Bidens kirkii can also be propagated by cuttings. This method should be done early in the growing season when the plant's stems are still tender and pliable. Select a healthy stem and cut it to about 10-12cm in length. Remove the leaves on the lower 5-6cm of the stem then dip the cut end in rooting hormone before inserting it into a pot filled with well-draining soil. Water well and keep in a shaded area until the cutting has rooted. Then, the rooted cuttings can be transplanted to the open field.
Disease Management
Bidens kirkii is susceptible to a few common diseases that can pose a threat to its health and growth. Here are some of the diseases that can affect this plant:
- Root rot: This disease is caused by fungi that attack the roots of the plant, leading to rotting and decay. To manage this disease, it's important to avoid overwatering the plant and ensure good drainage in the soil. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of the disease.
- Fungal leaf spots: These are caused by fungal infections that cause small, circular spots to develop on the leaves of the plant. To manage these leaf spots, remove any infected leaves and avoid watering the plant from above. Applying fungicides can also be helpful in controlling the spread of the disease.
- Mildew: This disease is caused by a fungal infection that creates a white powdery substance on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, reduce humidity levels around the plant and ensure proper air circulation. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Bidens kirkii can also be affected by pests that can damage the plant and reduce its growth. Here are some of the pests that can affect this plant:
- Aphids: These small insects suck sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, causing wilting and stunting. To manage aphids, remove them manually or use insecticidal soap to control their population.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars can chew on the leaves of the plant, causing holes and damage. To manage caterpillars, remove them manually or use bacillus thuringiensis, a natural insecticide, to control their population.
- Thrips: These tiny insects can cause damage to the leaves and flowers of the plant by sucking sap. To manage thrips, remove them manually or use an insecticide to control their population.
- Spider mites: These small pests can cause discoloration and damage by sucking sap from the leaves of the plant. To manage spider mites, increase the humidity around the plant and use insecticidal soap to control their population.
Regular inspection of the leaves and stems of the plant can help prevent the spread of diseases and pests. It's also important to maintain a healthy growing environment for the plant by providing adequate sunlight, water, and nutrients.
