Description
Bidens seretii (De Wild.) Sherff, commonly known as Seret's bur marigold, is a medicinal plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. This herbaceous plant reaches a height of up to 1.5 meters and has elongated and pointed leaves. The stem is square-shaped and its flowers are yellow in color and in the shape of a daisy.
Origin
Bidens seretii is a plant species native to tropical Africa, found primarily in Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Malawi, and Zambia. It is also found in other parts of the world such as Madagascar and the Philippines as an introduced species.
Common Names
Bidens seretii is commonly known as Seret's bur marigold, while in Swahili, it is called 'Mshiti Mweupe'.
Uses
Bidens seretii has a variety of medicinal uses. The plant's roots are used to treat snake bites, while a decoction of the leaves is used to treat fever and coughs. Additionally, the leaves and stems are used for their antifungal and antibacterial properties. The plant is also used in traditional African medicine as an infusion to treat a variety of conditions such as dysentery, malaria, and skin infections. The seeds of Bidens seretii are also used for their anti-inflammatory properties and as a digestive aid.
In addition to its medicinal uses, Bidens seretii is also used in some African cultures for spiritual and cultural purposes.
Bidens seretii is an important plant species for traditional healers in Africa, where it plays a significant role in the healthcare of local communities. However, due to rampant deforestation and habitat degradation, the plant is threatened, and measures need to be taken to conserve this species.
Light Requirements
Bidens seretii typically thrives in areas with full or partial sunlight exposure. The plant requires constant light, although it can tolerate a few hours of shade. Shade helps to prevent stress from excessive heat, especially in regions with elevated temperatures or prolonged periods of sunshine.
Temperature conditions
Although Bidens seretii can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, it grows best in warm and humid conditions. Optimum temperatures range from 20 to 30 °C, while the minimum temperature for growth falls between 15 and 18°C. The plant can tolerate high temperatures, especially in regions with adequate water supply. However, excessively high temperatures, coupled with low humidity, can lead to wilting and stunted growth.
Soil Requirements
Bidens seretii is a hardy plant that can grow in various soil types. However, it prefers well-drained soils with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. The plant can also tolerate mildly acidic soils with a pH as low as 6.0. Soil fertility is also essential for the growth of Bidens seretii. Organic-rich soils with adequate levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are ideal for plant growth. Poor soil drainage can lead to root rot, especially in regions with heavy rainfall.
Cultivation Methods for Bidens seretii (De Wild.) Sherff
Bidens seretii (De Wild.) Sherff, commonly known as Secreti's Beggarticks, is an herbaceous, annual plant that can grow up to one meter tall. This plant species thrives in areas with moderate temperatures and high humidity. To cultivate Bidens seretii (De Wild.) Sherff, you must follow the proper cultivation methods.
The plant prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It can grow in full sun or partial shade. Before planting, prepare the soil by tilling and adding compost. Afterward, sow the seeds in rows or broadcasting. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and ensure that there is enough moisture to facilitate germination. Water the seeds daily for at least seven days until they germinate.
Watering Needs for Bidens seretii (De. Wild.) Sherff
The key to successful cultivation of Bidens seretii (De Wild.) Sherff lies in providing the appropriate amount of water. This plant requires adequate moisture to thrive. However, it would help if you avoided overwatering, which can lead to fungal infections, affecting the plant's growth.
To maintain optimal soil moisture, water the plant regularly, at least two to three times per week. Ensure that the water penetrates deep into the soil without making the soil soggy. A good practice is to water early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler. Evaluate the moisture level regularly, and adjust the watering schedule accordingly.
Fertilization of Bidens seretii (De. Wild.) Sherff
Bidens seretii (De Wild.) Sherff requires adequate nutrients for proper growth and development. Fertilizers are necessary to provide essential nutrients to the plant. Before planting, incorporate a balanced fertilizer into the soil.
You should use a slow-release granular fertilizer that slowly releases nutrients to the soil to ensure optimal growth. Apply the granular fertilizer to the soil and mix it with the soil before planting. During the growing season, you can apply a water-soluble fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and avoid over-application, which can lead to fertilizer burn.
Pruning of Bidens seretii (De. Wild.) Sherff
Pruning Bidens seretii (De Wild.) Sherff is not necessary. However, you can pinch off the tips of young plants to encourage bushier growth. Removing spent flowers also promotes more blooms. If you want to control the plant's size, you can cut back the main stem by one-third to half of its length. Ensure that you use sharp and clean pruning shears to avoid injuring the plant.
Propagation of Bidens seretii
Bidens seretii is a perennial plant that commonly grows in wetlands and other marshy regions. It can be propagated through both sexual and asexual means, which include:
Seeds
Bidens seretii seeds are commonly used for propagation. The seeds can be harvested from mature plants and then sown immediately in a nursery or directly in the field. Before sowing, the seeds should be cleaned and treated to enhance germination. Sowing should be done during the rainy season, and seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil, ensuring moisture availability.
Cuttings
Bidens seretii can also be propagated through stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from mature plants early in the morning and immediately planted in a prepared nursery bed. The nursery bed should be well-watered and covered with a transparent polythene sheet to provide the required humidity. The cuttings should develop roots after two to four weeks and can then be transplanted to the field in an area with the proper humidity and sunlight requirements.
Division
Bidens seretii can also be propagated through division. This is the separation of the plant's root system into sections, each with one or more shoots, that can be replanted to produce new plants. The plants should be dug up gently so as not to damage the roots and carefully separated into sections. The sections should be planted immediately, ensuring that the roots are watered appropriately.
Disease Management for Bidens seretii (De Wild.) Sherff
Bidens seretii (De Wild.) Sherff is generally a healthy plant that is not prone to many diseases. However, like all plants, it is still susceptible to some fungal and bacterial infections. Some common diseases that may affect Bidens seretii include:
- Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that causes yellow or brown spots on the plant's leaves. To manage this disease, remove and destroy the infected leaves and avoid getting water on the plant's leaves. Also, ensure proper ventilation to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Mildew: Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that affects many types of plants, including Bidens seretii. It appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves and stems. To manage this disease, prune affected areas and treat the plant with a fungicide.
- Root rot: This is a disease caused by water-logged soil and fungi that attack the roots. To manage this disease, ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering the plant. Also, treat the plant's soil with a fungicide.
- Bacterial blight: This is a bacterial disease that causes wilting, dark spots or necrosis on the plant's leaves. It is managed by pruning the affected areas and treating the plant with a copper-based fungicide.
Pest Management for Bidens seretii (De Wild.) Sherff
Bidens seretii is generally resistant to pests. However, some common pests that might attack this plant include:
- Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that often appear in large numbers. They can cause significant damage by sucking sap from the plant. To manage them, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These are tiny pests that spin webs on the plant's leaves and stems. They can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To manage them, rinse the plant with water and treat with an insecticide.
- Thrips: Thrips are small insects that feed on the plant's leaves and flowers. They can cause significant damage by causing distortion and discoloration of the plant. To manage them, treat the plant with an insecticide.
It is important to regularly monitor Bidens seretii for any signs of disease or pest infestation. Early detection and treatment can prevent significant damage to the plant.
