Overview:
Bidens oblonga (Sherff) Wild is a medicinal plant that is native to the North Central region of the United States of America. This plant is well-known for its beneficial medicinal properties, and it has been used for centuries to treat various ailments.
Common Names:
The Bidens oblonga plant is commonly referred to as "Tall Swamp-Marigold", "Oblong Beggartick", or "Bur-Marigold". These names are mainly derived from the plant's physical appearance, growth pattern, and habitat.
General Appearance:
The Bidens oblonga plant is a tall, often unbranched, annual herb that can grow up to 6 feet or more in height. It usually has a single erect stem covered in fine hairs and is characterized by its oblong-shaped leaves, which are typically 2-5 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The plant also produces clusters of bright yellow flowers that have a disk-like shape. The flowers bloom from July to October and are followed by the production of small, barbed seeds that stick to clothing and animal fur.
Uses:
Bidens oblonga is primarily used for medicinal purposes. Its leaves and flowers contain potent anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antibacterial compounds that have been used to alleviate pain, treat infections, and reduce swelling. This plant is also believed to have properties that help lower blood sugar levels, making it popular among those with diabetes. Additionally, Bidens oblonga has been used as a natural remedy for digestive disorders, liver ailments, and respiratory illnesses. It is important to note that before using this plant for medicinal purposes, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure it is safe for individual consumption.
Light Requirements
Bidens oblonga is a plant that can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. However, for optimal growth, this plant requires at least six hours of sunlight every day.
Temperature Requirements
The Bidens oblonga plant prefers a warm and moderate climate. The ideal temperature for this plant is between 70°F and 80°F during the day, and a minimum of 60°F at night. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 40°F and as high as 100°F, but extreme temperatures can affect plant growth and development.
Soil Requirements
Bidens oblonga is a highly adaptable plant, and it can grow in a variety of soil types. However, for the best growth and performance, this plant prefers well-draining soils with a pH range between 5.5 and 7.5. The soil should also be rich in organic matter and have a good water-holding capacity.
Cultivation Methods
Bidens oblonga is a perennial plant commonly found in wet meadows, woodland openings, and moist swales. When grown as a garden plant, it requires full sun to partial shade for optimum growth. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil but can tolerate periods of drought and poor soil. It is best propagated through seeds or divisions.
Watering Needs
Bidens oblonga requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, as excess water can lead to root rot. When watering, it is essential to avoid wetting the plant's leaves, which can create favorable conditions for fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Bidens oblonga requires fertilization to maintain healthy growth. It is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 12-12-12, applied every two to three weeks during the growing season. Organic fertilizers, such as compost or well-rotted manure, can also be used to enrich the soil and improve soil structure.
Pruning
Pruning Bidens oblonga is not necessary, but it can help control the plant's size and shape. When pruning, it is recommended to remove dead or damaged stems and leaves. Pinching back the tips of stems can also promote bushier growth and increase the number of flowers. It is best to prune in the early spring before new growth emerges.
Propagation of Bidens oblonga
Bidens oblonga (Sherff) Wild is a plant that can be propagated by several methods such as seeds, stem cuttings, and division. Each propagation method has its advantages and disadvantages, and the selection of the method usually depends on various factors such as the specific plant characteristics, the intended use of the plants, and the growing conditions.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds are the most common method of propagation for Bidens oblonga. They can be collected from the mature plants in the fall and stored in a cool, dry place until the spring. In the spring, the seeds can be sown directly in the ground or in containers. The seeds should be planted shallowly, at a depth of about one-quarter of an inch, and kept moist until they germinate. The germination period for Bidens oblonga seeds is usually between 7 and 14 days.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Bidens oblonga can also be propagated by stem cuttings taken from the parent plant. The cuttings should be taken in the early summer when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be approximately 4 to 6 inches long and have several leaves. The bottom leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone powder before being planted in a potting mix. Water the cutting and place a plastic bag over the pot to create a humid environment. After four to six weeks, the cutting should have rooted and can be transplanted to a larger container or to the garden.
Propagation by Division
Bidens oblonga can be propagated by division in the early spring before the new growth appears. The parent plant should be lifted from the ground, and the root ball should be carefully divided into smaller sections. Each section should have its own set of leaves and roots, and any damaged or diseased sections should be discarded. The new divisions should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until new growth appears.
Disease and Pest Management for Bidens oblonga (Sherff) Wild
Bidens oblonga, commonly known as the swamp beggar-ticks, is a herbaceous plant that is commonly found in marshes, swamps, and wetlands. The plant can suffer from various diseases and pest infestations that can affect its growth and overall health. Effective disease and pest management practices are essential for maintaining the health of the plant.
Common Diseases
Bidens oblonga is susceptible to several fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. Powdery mildew appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves, while rust creates yellow-orange spots on the leaves. Leaf spot appears as yellow-brown spots on the leaves.
To manage these fungal diseases, it is crucial to maintain proper air circulation around the plants, avoid overhead watering, and promptly remove the infected plant parts. Fungicides can be applied to the plant to control the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
The plant can also attract several pests such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Aphids are tiny green insects that suck the sap from the plant's leaves, causing them to curl and wilt. Spider mites are tiny red mites that cause webbing on the leaves and yellowing of the plant. Whiteflies are tiny white insects that suck the sap from the plant and cause yellowing of the leaves.
To manage these insect pests, it is important to use natural control methods such as introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs. Insecticidal soaps and oils can be used to control the infestation of pests. It is essential to keep the plant healthy and well-nourished to prevent the infestation of pests.
