Bidens frondosa
Bidens frondosa · Asteraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant bidens frondosa: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- August to October
- Mature size
- 60 to 120 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Low hardiness, sensitive to cold
- Origin
- North America
- Soil type
- Moist, tolerant soils
Care
Regular watering
Black-fruited Beggar-ticks appreciates moist environments and requires regular watering, especially during the growth and flowering period. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in autumn as the plant prepares for its seasonal decline.
Sunny exposure
This herbaceous plant prefers full sun or partial shade for optimal flowering. A minimum of 6 hours of direct light per day will promote vigorous growth and flower production.
Moist and draining soil
Black-fruited Beggar-ticks thrives in rich, moist, well-draining soils. It tolerates slightly acidic to neutral soils. Enrich the soil with compost or organic matter at planting time to improve water retention and fertility.
Deadheading
Pinch back stem tips regularly to encourage more compact growth and better branching. Remove spent flowers to prolong blooming and prevent unwanted self-seeding.
Moderate fertilizing
A balanced fertilizer applied monthly during the growing season is sufficient. Avoid excess nitrogen, which would favor foliage at the expense of flowers. Favor an application rich in phosphorus for better flowering.
Disease prevention
Black-fruited Beggar-ticks is generally resistant to major diseases. Watch for powdery mildew in cases of excessive humidity and poor air circulation. Check regularly for pests such as aphids, especially late in the season.
Did you know?
Black-fruited Beggar-ticks owes its name to the fact that its seeds are equipped with two barbed awns (the "teeth"), allowing them to cling to clothing and animal fur for natural dispersal: a fascinating dissemination strategy that botanists call zoochory.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.