Bidens Ferulaefolia

• Native to Mexico and Central America, this cheerful annual has become a favourite worldwide for its reliable performance. Also known as Golden Marie or Goldmarie.
• Produces hundreds of small golden-yellow daisy flowers measuring 2-3cm across throughout the warmer months. Flowers have a sweet, honey-like fragrance.
• Forms a trailing habit reaching 30cm high and spreading 60cm wide, making it ideal for cascading displays. Self-seeds readily in favourable conditions.
• Beloved by gardeners for its low-maintenance nature and ability to bloom continuously without deadheading. Attracts bees, butterflies and other beneficial insects.

• Water 2-3 times weekly in hot weather, reducing to weekly in cooler months - check soil moisture 5cm down. Deep, infrequent watering encourages strong root development.
• Position in full sun locations receiving at least 6 hours direct sunlight daily. In extremely hot climates, provide light afternoon shade.
• Plant in well-draining potting mix or garden soil amended with compost. Avoid heavy clay soils that retain moisture.
• Apply liquid fertiliser every 4 weeks during spring and summer growing season. Use a balanced 10-10-10 or similar formulation.
• Pinch spent flowers occasionally to encourage more blooms, though not essential. Trim back leggy growth mid-season.
• Prefers low to moderate humidity - excellent air circulation prevents fungal issues in humid coastal areas.

• Provide full sun for maximum flowering performance, though it tolerates light afternoon shade in hot climates. Morning sun is essential for healthy growth.
• Water deeply but infrequently once established, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Newly planted specimens need regular moisture for the first few weeks.
• Thrives in temperatures between 15-30°C and handles light frost once mature. Protect from harsh winter winds in cooler regions.
• Feed monthly with a balanced liquid fertiliser during growing season to promote continuous blooming. Reduce feeding in winter months.
• Pinch growing tips when young to encourage bushy growth and more flowering stems.

• Aphids can cluster on new growth - spray with insecticidal soap or encourage beneficial insects like ladybirds. Check regularly during warm weather for early detection.
• Root rot occurs in waterlogged soil - ensure excellent drainage and reduce watering frequency. Plant in raised beds or containers if soil drainage is poor.
• Powdery mildew may develop in humid conditions with poor air circulation. Space plants adequately and water at soil level rather than overhead.
• Caterpillars occasionally feed on foliage - handpick larger pests or use Bacillus thuringiensis spray for severe infestations.