Beggarticks (Bidens) (Bidens)
Also known as: tickseed sunflowers, Cobbler's pegs, Spanish needles
Beggarticks thrive in both tropical and temperate regions worldwide. These plants are known by various names, including sticktights, bur marigolds, pitchforks, cobbler's pegs, and tickseed sunflowers. They are favored by pollinators and are notable for their seeds that easily cling to clothing and fur.
In This Article
Attributes of Beggarticks (Bidens)
Lifespan
Annual, Perennial, Biennial
Plant Height
15 cm
Spread
30 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Flower Size
1-3 cm (0.4-1.2 inches)
Flower Color
Yellow
Images of Beggarticks (Bidens)
Quickly Identify Beggarticks (Bidens)
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Bidens are identified by their distinctive burr-like seeds, which have barbed bristles. The plants typically have yellow, daisy-like flowers and fern-like leaves.
Scientific Classification of Beggarticks (Bidens)
Phylum
Tracheophyta
Class
Magnoliopsida
Order
Asterales
Family
Asteraceae
Genus
Bidens
Planting and Growing of Beggarticks (Bidens)
Care Difficulty
Easy
Watering Schedule
Every 4 days
Sunlight Requirements
Full sun
Sunshine Duration
4-6 hours
Ideal Temperature
65-75℉
Soil Type
Potting Mix, Peat Mix
Soil pH
6-7.5
Fertilizer Type
Balanced
Pruning Season
Spring, Summer
Pruning Area
Branches, Leaves
Pruning Frequency
Once a year
Repotting Season
Spring
Pot Type
Plastic, Terracotta
How to Water Beggarticks (Bidens)?
When watering Bidens, ensure that the soil is evenly moist without waterlogging. A deep soak is recommended until water drains from the bottom, about 250 ml for medium-sized pots. Water should not accumulate on the surface, and the soil should remain slightly moist.
What are the symptoms of an underwatered Beggarticks (Bidens)?
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What should I do if my Beggarticks (Bidens) is not getting enough water?
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What are the symptoms of an overwatered Beggarticks (Bidens)?
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How to save an overwatered Beggarticks (Bidens)?
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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Beggarticks (Bidens)?
Bidens perform best under full to partial sunlight, ideally receiving 4 to 8 hours of exposure. Adequate light fosters robust blooms and healthy foliage, enhancing both growth and aesthetic appeal.
What is the ideal sunlight for Bidens?
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How can I ensure adequate sunlight for my Bidens?
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What benefits will Bidens have from ideal sunlight?
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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Beggarticks (Bidens)?
The ideal temperature range for growing Bidens is between 65°F and 75°F. This range is optimal for most growth stages, as it provides a stable environment for photosynthesis, nutrient absorption, and general metabolic processes necessary for healthy development.
What Soil is Best for Beggarticks (Bidens)?
Bidens thrive in nutrient-rich soils, as they provide the essential minerals and organic matter needed for vigorous growth. Adequate nutrients ensure vibrant blooms and healthy foliage. This plant requires a well-draining substrate to prevent root rot. Adequate drainage encourages robust root health, reducing the risk of waterlogging and enabling optimal nutrient uptake. While Bidens need good drainage, a moderate level of moisture retention is also crucial. This balance keeps the soil consistently moist, supporting sustained growth without the risk of dryness or wilting.
How to Fertilize Beggarticks (Bidens)?
Bidens thrive when given a balanced fertilizer. For liquid feeds, dilute it to half the recommended strength to prevent root burn. About 1/4 to 1/2 a gallon per application should suffice, depending on plant size.
How to Prune Beggarticks (Bidens)?
Begin by removing any dead, damaged, or diseased stems. Follow this by cutting back any leggy or overgrown branches to encourage denser growth. Aim to cut just above a leaf node to promote new shoots. Regular deadheading, or removal of spent flowers, is essential to stimulate continuous blooming throughout the growing seasons. The best time for pruning is during the active growing months of spring and summer when the plant can recover quickly. In autumn, perform a final light prune to tidy up the plant before it enters dormancy in winter.
How to Propagate Beggarticks (Bidens) plant?
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Sow Bidens seeds in a seed tray filled with well-drained soil. Lightly cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and water gently to avoid washing them away. Keep the tray in a warm, bright location.
2
For cutting propagation, select a healthy stem with no flowers. Use a sterile sharp knife to cut a 4-6 inch section. Remove the lower leaves, dip the cut end in rooting hormone, and plant in moist soil.
3
In spring or early summer, carefully dig up the mature Bidens plant and separate it into smaller sections using a sharp tool. Ensure each section has healthy roots attached before replanting in suitable soil.
How to Repot Beggarticks (Bidens) plant?
1
Bidens plant signals its need for repotting when roots begin to protrude from the drainage holes or when the plant appears to have outgrown its pot, hindering water absorption.
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Select a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current pot. This ensures ample room for root growth without overwhelming the plant with excess soil, promoting healthy development.
3
Opt for a well-draining soil mix, crucial for preventing root rot and ensuring proper nutrient absorption, providing a balanced environment for Bidens to thrive.
Learn More About Beggarticks (Bidens) Diseases
Anthracnose
Bacterial Leaf Spot
Bacterial Soft Rot
Bacterial Wilt
Chemical Injury
Cyst Nematode
Damping-off
Downy Mildew
Drought Stress
Fusarium Wilt
Gray Mold
Leaf Spot
Mosaic
Nutrient Deficiency
Nutrient Toxicity
Powdery Mildew
Root Rot
Root-knot Nematode
Rusts
Sooty Mold
Spider Mites
Temperature Stress
Thrips Damage
White Mold