Origin
Bidens ugandensis (S.Moore) Sherff var. longisquama Sherff, also known as Uganda Tickseed, is a species of flowering plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. The plant is native to tropical regions of East Africa, including Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya.
Common Names
Bidens ugandensis is also commonly known as the African Marigold, the East African Bidens, and the Long-Scale Beggar-Ticks.
Uses
The Uganda Tickseed plant contains chemicals that have antifungal and antibacterial properties, and as such, is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as stomachaches and skin infections. Additionally, Bidens ugandensis is also used as a natural pesticide to repel insect pests and control their population.
General Appearance
The Bidens ugandensis plant is a herbaceous annual that grows up to 1.5 meters in height. It has a branching stem and narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are up to 10 cm long. The plant produces yellow flowers with a diameter of approximately 4 cm that bloom from July to September. The fruits of the plant are small and are covered in barbed bristles that stick to clothing and animal fur, facilitating seed dispersal.
Growth Conditions for Bidens Ugandensis (S.Moore) Sherff var. Longisquama Sherff
Bidens ugandensis (S.Moore) Sherff var. longisquama Sherff is a plant species that belongs to the family Asteraceae, commonly known as the fernleaf beggarticks. It is a herbaceous perennial that is native to Uganda and grows up to 3-4 feet tall.
Light Requirements
Bidens ugandensis (S.Moore) Sherff var. longisquama Sherff prefers full sun to partial shade. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight to thrive. In regions with hot summer temperatures, it prefers partial shade to protect it from heat stress.
Temperature Requirements
Bidens ugandensis (S.Moore) Sherff var. longisquama Sherff requires warm temperatures to grow. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 70°F-80°F during the day and 60°F-65°F at night. If the temperature falls below 50°F, it may result in foliage damage or wilting.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-draining soil that retains enough moisture to keep the roots hydrated but does not get waterlogged. It thrives in soils with a pH level of 6.0-7.5. It is adaptable to a range of soil types, including loam, sandy loam, or clay soil.
Watering Requirements
Bidens ugandensis (S.Moore) Sherff var. longisquama Sherff requires regular watering, especially during its growing season. It is essential to keep the soil moist but avoid overwatering the plant, which may cause waterlogging. It is best to water in the morning or evening hours, and avoid watering during the hottest part of the day.
Fertilizer Requirements
Bidens ugandensis (S.Moore) Sherff var. longisquama Sherff requires regular fertilization to promote growth and flowering. It is best to apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Applying fertilizer in excess amounts may result in weak growth or damage to foliage.
Cultivation Methods for Bidens ugandensis (S.Moore) Sherff var. longisquama Sherff
Bidens Ugandensis, also known as Blackjacks or Spanish Needles, is a hardy and drought-resistant plant that can thrive in various soil types. To cultivate this plant, start by preparing the soil by removing any weeds and debris, then loosen the soil before planting.
The best time for planting Bidens Ugandensis is during the spring or summer, after the last frost. The plant prefers full sun exposure but can tolerate partial shade. It should be planted at a depth of approximately a quarter of an inch.
Watering Needs of Bidens ugandensis (S.Moore) Sherff var. longisquama Sherff
Bidens Ugandensis is drought-resistant and only requires moderate watering. Water the plant thoroughly when the soil feels dry to the touch, ensuring that the water penetrates the roots and the soil around them. It is crucial to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Fertilization of Bidens ugandensis (S.Moore) Sherff var. longisquama Sherff
Bidens Ugandensis requires minimal fertilization, and a balanced all-purpose fertilizer can be applied every two to three months during the growing season. However, be cautious not to over-fertilize as this may lead to excessive foliage growth and compromise flowering capacity of the plant.
Pruning of Bidens ugandensis (S.Moore) Sherff var. longisquama Sherff
Bidens Ugandensis can be pruned to keep it in good shape and to remove any dead or diseased parts of the plant. It is best to prune it in the late winter or early spring before the plant begins its new growth phase. Deadheading (removal of spent blooms) is encouraged to encourage more blooms and make the plant more attractive.
Propagation Methods for Bidens ugandensis (S.Moore) Sherff var. longisquama Sherff
Bidens ugandensis (S.Moore) Sherff var. longisquama Sherff, commonly known as the Long-bracted bur-marigold, is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is a self-seeding annual plant that grows up to 60cm tall with bright yellow flowers that bloom from June to September. Propagating Bidens ugandensis can be done through various methods such as:
Seed Propagation
The easiest and most common way to propagate Bidens ugandensis is through seed. Collect seeds from the matured flower heads and allow them to dry. Once the seeds are dried, store them in a cool, dry place. Sow the seeds in seed-starting trays or directly in the garden bed in the early spring, about 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Cover the seeds lightly with soil or vermiculite. Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate. The optimal temperature range for germination is between 68°F- 76°F. Depending on the potting mix, germination can happen in about 5-10 days. Once the seedlings are about 2-3 inches tall, they can be transplanted into the garden bed.
Cutting Propagation
Bidens ugandensis can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Take cuttings of 4-6 inch long stem sections, remove the lower leaves and make a clean cut just below the node. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder and plant it in a soilless potting mix. Keep the soil moist and put the cutting in a shaded area for at least 3-4 weeks. Once the root system has developed, transplant the cutting to a garden bed.
Division Propagation
Bidens ugandensis can be propagated through division of mature plants. This method is useful when the plant has outgrown its container or is too large for its current location. Divide the plant in the early spring before new growth starts. Dig up the entire plant and gently separate the roots into sections. Replant the new sections into pots or directly in the garden bed and water thoroughly.
Disease Management for Bidens Ugandensis (S.Moore) Sherff var. longisquama Sherff
The Bidens Ugandensis (S.Moore) Sherff var. longisquama Sherff plant is prone to various diseases that can negatively impact its growth and yield. Here are some of the common diseases and methods of managing them:
- Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal disease that causes a white powdery substance to appear on the leaves of the plant, which can eventually lead to leaf drop. To manage this disease, you can prune affected parts of the plant and apply fungicides to prevent the spread of the disease.
- bacterial leaf spot: This is a bacterial disease that manifests as small brown or black spots on the leaves, which can lead to defoliation. To manage it, you can remove affected leaves, provide proper sanitation for good airflow, and use copper-based fungicides.
- Root rot: This is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to rot and eventually die, which leads to reduced plant growth. You can manage this disease by practicing proper irrigation, using well-draining soil, and avoiding overwatering.
Pest Management for Bidens Ugandensis (S.Moore) Sherff var. longisquama Sherff
In addition to diseases, the Bidens Ugandensis (S.Moore) Sherff var. longisquama Sherff plant can also be affected by pests which can cause significant damage. Here are some of the common pests and methods of managing them:
- Whiteflies: These are small insects that feed on the plant, causing yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. Use sticky traps, insecticidal soaps, or neem oil to manage them.
- Aphids: These are tiny insects that can cause the leaves of the plant to curl or yellow. Use insecticidal soaps or neem oil to control them.
- Caterpillars: These are larvae of butterflies and moths that can eat the leaves of the plant. Use Bacillus thuringiensis or handpick them to manage them.
Proper pest and disease management practices can help ensure that your Bidens Ugandensis (S.Moore) Sherff var. longisquama Sherff plant grows healthy and produces a good yield. Regularly monitor your plant for any signs of diseases or pests and take appropriate action to manage them as soon as possible.
