Wings of Gold: Propagating Bidens Macroptera for a Burst of Sunshine
The Bidens macroptera, sometimes affectionately known as the “fern-leaved beggartick,” is a cheerful plant with bright yellow, daisy-like flowers. Native to Mexico and parts of the United States, this vigorous grower brings a burst of sunshine to gardens and landscapes with its long blooming season and attractive foliage. If you’re looking to multiply your stock or share the joy of this delightful plant with others, propagation is the way to go. Luckily, Bidens macroptera is relatively simple to propagate, and you can do it through two primary methods: seeds and cuttings.
Sowing Seeds for a Shower of Gold:
Harvesting Seeds: Bidens macroptera readily produces seeds after flowering. You’ll notice small, brown to black seeds with tiny “wings” forming at the base of the faded flowers. Collect the seeds once they’re dry and easily detach from the plant.
Sowing Time: You can start seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost in your region. For direct sowing, wait until after the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed.
Sowing Process: Use a well-draining seed starting mix and sprinkle a few seeds per cell or pot. Lightly press the seeds into the soil but don’t bury them deeply. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Light and Warmth: Bidens macroptera seeds need light to germinate, so ensure they are placed in a bright location but out of direct sunlight. Maintain a temperature of around 70-75°F (21-24°C) for optimal germination.
- Transplanting: Once your seedlings develop a few sets of true leaves and the risk of frost has passed, you can harden them off and transplant them outdoors. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
Cuttings for Quick and Easy Clones:
Taking Cuttings: In spring or early summer, select healthy, non-flowering stems from your Bidens macroptera plant. Using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears, cut a 3-4 inch section of stem just below a leaf node.
Preparing the Cuttings: Remove the lower leaves from the stem, leaving only a couple of leaves at the top. You can dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder to encourage faster root development, though this isn’t strictly necessary.
Planting the Cuttings: Fill a small pot or tray with a well-draining potting mix. Make a small hole in the center and carefully insert the bottom inch of the cutting into the soil. Gently firm the soil around the base.
Creating Humidity: Cover the pot or tray with a plastic bag or humidity dome to create a warm, humid environment that promotes rooting. Place the cutting in a bright location but out of direct sunlight.
- Rooting and Transplanting: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. After 4-6 weeks, the cuttings should have developed a healthy root system. Gently tug on the cutting; if you feel resistance, roots have formed. You can then transplant the rooted cuttings into individual pots or directly into the garden.
With minimal effort and these straightforward techniques, you can propagate your Bidens macroptera and enjoy an abundance of sunny yellow flowers year after year. Whether you choose to sow seeds or take cuttings, the joy of witnessing new life sprout from these cheerful plants is truly rewarding.