Bidens (tickseed sunflower plants) are sun-loving annuals with fern-leafed foliage and bright yellow flowers. These plants bloom continuously and are self-cleaning. They are suitable for landscapes and mixed containers, and since they like moist soil, they can create a cover for bare, open areas such as ditches. One thing your customer may love about Bidens is that they self-sow. Bidens also attract pollinators and butterflies, blooming from July to October.
General Growing Tips For Your Rooted Cutting Liner
For best results with Bidens, we recommend using a constant feed program of 150-200 ppm N. Maintain a pH between 5.8 - 6.2.
Pinching
For Blazing Fire we recommend one pinch 5-10 days after transplant, once the roots are established.
Spacing
Bidens should be spaced adequately to allow airflow and light penetration between the foliage. Usually 2' centers on baskets will be enough.
Height Control
Plant growth regulators are optional with Bidens, though not necessary under high light intensities. 1-3 sprays of ALAR (B-Nine) 2 gr/L according to required plant size.
Pests
Whiteflies, aphids, and thrips are common pest problems with Bidens.
Disease
Blazing Fire are not prone to many diseases, but watch for botrytis while the days are short. This grey rot is usually associated with wet or humid conditions. You can prevent botrytis by allowing the plant to dry out between waterings, allowing for good airflow in your greenhouse, and spacing to allow the sun to penetrate to the soil level. The most common chemicals used to treat botrytis are Medallion and Banrot. Use them as a drench according to each label’s instructions.
Planting Blazing Fire Liners
- We recommend planting 4-5 starter plants per 10 inch basket. Use a well-drained soil in your baskets and plant your starter plants deep, allowing the ellepot to be completely covered by the soil. If you are planting 4" pots, 1 plant per pot should be sufficient. Plant it directly in the middle of your pot.
- Pinch Blazing Fire 5-10 days after transplanting to your final container.
Rooted Cuttings
Cuttings vary in size between different plant families. These rooted starter plants will arrive ready to be transplanted in to your final container. If they are to be used in a landscape application, you will need to establish them in a 4 inch pot or an 1801 before planting outside.
Bidens Blazing Fire Quick Reference Guide
| 4 Inch crop time | 6-8 Weeks |
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| 10 Inch crop time | 10-12 Weeks |
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| Bloom Period | Fall, Spring, Summer |
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| Color | Orange, Yellow |
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| Habit | Mounding |
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| Height | 6 inches |
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| Light | Full Sun |
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| Minimum Temp | 55 |
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| Perennial Zone | Zones 9-11 |
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| Water Needs | Moderate |
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| Patented Plant | Yes |
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