Radiate Tickseed
bidens radiata
Also known as: ["Bidens radiata"]
Overview
A herbaceous flowering plant in the daisy family, known for its bright yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Bidens |
| Botanical Name: | Bidens radiata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in a location with partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 4–6 weeks during growing season; major pruning in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense light to avoid scorching; protect from direct midday sun; adjust light exposure based on indoor vs. outdoor placement.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; provide dappled shade in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoids extremes.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent room temperature; use a humidifier in dry environments.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growing season (spring and summer)
Flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding in dormant periods; apply fertilizer to moist soil to avoid root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or moist soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, place in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light with consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water with occasional nutrient additions.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or jars, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips, trim leggy stems, remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Clean pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune dead/weak growth, shape plant, clean up debris, disinfect tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and soil health.
Checklist
Choose right pot, prepare new soil, handle roots carefully, water after repotting, place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, avoid wetting leaves, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation of the soil; allow excess water to drain completely to prevent waterlogging; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility; use a layer of gravel at the bottom of pots for extra drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, bud drop, or stunted growth indicate temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf drop.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, avoid cold drafts, and reduce watering in cooler conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid foliage contact, flush periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicBidens radiata is not toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects on feline health from ingestion or contact.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicBidens radiata is not toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects on canine health from ingestion or contact.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicBidens radiata is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion or contact.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Bidens radiata?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Bidens radiata attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is Bidens radiata toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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