Origin and Common Names
Coreopsis tripteris L. var. subrhomboidea Sherff, commonly known as the Tall Tickseed, is a native North American plant that can be found mainly in the central and eastern parts of the United States. It is a member of the Asteraceae family, which includes many other popular flowers such as sunflowers and daisies.Uses
The Tall Tickseed plant has various medicinal and commercial uses. Native American tribes used the plant to treat fever, liver conditions, and bleeding wounds. Commercially, the plant is known for its attractive yellow flowers and is often grown in gardens and public spaces. The plant is also used to make incense, and its seeds have been used as a coffee substitute.General Appearance
The Tall Tickseed plant can reach heights of up to 8 feet and has a slender, erect stem with few branches. The leaves are lance-shaped and can grow up to 8 inches in length. The yellow flowers are small and daisy-like, with 8-12 petals and a dark brown center. The plant blooms from late summer to early fall and can attract various insect pollinators. Additionally, the plant produces small, brown seeds that are dispersed by wind. Overall, the Tall Tickseed is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of soil types and requires little maintenance.Light Requirements
Coreopsis tripteris L. var. subrhomboidea Sherff thrives in areas with full sun exposure or partial shade. It can handle shade in the afternoon, but it requires full sun for at least six hours daily to grow well and bloom. Direct sunlight exposure stimulates flower production and promotes an efficient growth rate.
Temperature Range
Coreopsis tripteris L. var. subrhomboidea Sherff grows well in USDA zones 4 to 9, where the average minimum temperature ranges between -34.4°C to -6.7 °C (-30°F to 20°F). For optimum growth, the ideal temperature range is between 20°C to 26°C (68°F and 78°F).
Soil Requirements
The subrhomboidea variety of Coreopsis tripteris L. thrives in various soil types, including loam, sandy loam, clay loam, and sandy clay. However, the ideal soil for this plant would be a well-draining agronomic soil with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. It does not tolerate waterlogged soils, which may lead to root rot and stunted growth. To enhance soil fertility, incorporate well-decomposed organic materials into the soil, and topdress frequently with compost or place organic mulch around the plant's base.
Cultivation methods for Coreopsis tripteris L. var. subrhomboidea Sherff
Coreopsis tripteris L. var. subrhomboidea Sherff can be grown in well-drained soils with full sun to partial shade. It is a tough, adaptable plant that can grow in various soil types, but it prefers a loamy soil with a pH level of 6.0 to 7.0. The ideal planting time is in the spring when the soil has warmed up, and the frost danger has passed.
Watering needs for Coreopsis tripteris L. var. subrhomboidea Sherff
Coreopsis tripteris L. var. subrhomboidea Sherff needs regular watering, especially during the first growing season, to establish a healthy root system. After that, it can tolerate drought and only requires watering during prolonged dry periods. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues, so it's essential to let the soil dry out between watering sessions.
Fertilization for Coreopsis tripteris L. var. subrhomboidea Sherff
Coreopsis tripteris L. var. subrhomboidea Sherff doesn't require much fertilization and can grow well without it. However, adding compost or a balanced fertilizer during the growing season can enhance the plant's growth and blooming. It's recommended to apply fertilizers during the late spring or early summer using a slow-release or liquid fertilizer, following the manufacturer's instructions.
Pruning for Coreopsis tripteris L. var. subrhomboidea Sherff
Coreopsis tripteris L. var. subrhomboidea Sherff doesn't require much pruning, but it can benefit from deadheading after the first bloom in mid to late summer. Removing spent blooms can promote reblooming and extend the plant's blooming period. Additionally, cutting the stems back by one-third to one-half in late spring or early summer can keep the plant compact and prevent it from flopping over.
Propagation methods for Coreopsis tripteris L. var. subrhomboidea Sherff
Coreopsis tripteris L. var. subrhomboidea Sherff, commonly known as Tall Tickseed, is a native North American wildflower that can be propagated from both seeds and cuttings. Let's examine each method of propagation in detail.
Propagation through seeds
Seeds of Coreopsis tripteris can be harvested by hand from mature plants, or purchased from a reputable nursery. The ideal time for seed collection is when the seed heads have turned brown and the seeds are mature. Once collected, seeds should be stored in a cool, dry place until ready to be sown.
To sow the seeds, it is recommended to use seed trays filled with potting soil. The seeds should be lightly covered with soil, but not buried too deep. The trays should be kept moist and placed in a warm, bright location. Germination takes place within 14-21 days. Once the seedlings have grown to a certain size, they can be transplanted into containers or directly into the soil in a garden bed.
Propagation through cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is another method to create new plants of Coreopsis tripteris. Cuttings can be taken in spring or early summer from healthy, non-flowering plants. Select a shoot that is 3-4 inches long, and cut it just below a leaf node. Remove the lower leaves of the cutting, leaving a couple of leaves at the top. Dip the end of the cutting in rooting hormone and plant it in potting soil or a mixture of sand and peat moss.
Water the cutting and place it in a warm, well-lit area, keeping the soil moist to encourage root growth. Once the cutting has rooted, it can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the soil in a garden bed. It will take several weeks for the cutting to become established and produce new growth.
Conclusion
Whether propagated through seeds or cuttings, Coreopsis tripteris L. var. subrhomboidea Sherff is an easy plant to propagate. With proper care and attention, you can create new plants and enjoy their bright yellow flowers in your garden.
Disease Management for Coreopsis tripteris L. var. subrhomboidea Sherff Plant
Coreopsis tripteris L. var. subrhomboidea Sherff is generally a healthy plant. However, they are still susceptible to some diseases, including:
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease causes a whitish-gray, powdery coating on the leaves and stems. It is common during hot and humid weather. To manage it, remove the infected parts of the plant and treat it with fungicides.
- Root Rot: It is caused by fungi that thrive in wet soils. The plant may exhibit yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and wilting. To prevent root rot, avoid overwatering and ensure that the soil is well-drained.
- Septoria Leaf Spot: This disease causes circular, dark brown spots with a yellow halo on the leaves. It is caused by a fungus and is common during wet weather conditions. Management techniques include pruning the affected parts and using fungicides.
Pest Management for Coreopsis tripteris L. var. subrhomboidea Sherff Plant
Coreopsis tripteris L. var. subrhomboidea Sherff may also suffer from infestations by insect pests. Here are some common pests and how to manage them:
- Aphids: These small insects suck sap from the leaves and stems, causing them to wilt and become distorted. To manage the infestation, remove them using a stream of water or use insecticidal soap.
- Spider Mites: They are tiny, sap-sucking pests that cause yellowing leaves. They thrive in hot and dry weather. You can remove them by spraying the plants with water or using insecticidal soap.
- Thrips: These are small insects that feed on the leaves, causing them to become silvery and distorted. They may also vector viruses from plant to plant. To manage them, remove the affected parts or use insecticides.
It's important to monitor your Coreopsis tripteris L. var. subrhomboidea Sherff plant for any signs of diseases or pests regularly. This will help you to identify and manage them before they cause significant damage to the plant.
