Blue Stone Lotus is a beautiful perennial ornamental plant that can not only be used as an indoor potted plant but also for decorating outdoor courtyards. However, how can you care for Blue Stone Lotus to make it grow strong and be covered in blossoms? This article will detail how to care for Blue Stone Lotus using the "exploding pot" method.
Choosing the right pot
Selecting the right pot is the first step to successfully cultivating Blue Stone Lotus. You should choose a large-mouthed, shallow terracotta or sandy pot, which facilitates the penetration and drainage of water and nutrients. At the same time, ensure the pot has drainage holes at the bottom to avoid waterlogging.
Choosing the right soil
Blue Stone Lotus prefers to grow in well-draining, loose, fertile, and slightly acidic soil. For "exploding pot" planting, a porous and breathable mixed soil mainly made of perlite, vermiculite, and pine needles can be used.
Pruning appropriately
Before "exploding pot" planting, Blue Stone Lotus should be pruned appropriately. Cut off withered, weak, or pest and disease-infected branches and leaves so that the plant can allocate nutrients and water to promote the growth of new buds.
Controlling the amount of watering
Blue Stone Lotus does not like overly moist soil. Therefore, after "exploding pot" planting, attention should be paid to controlling the amount of watering. You should wait until the soil surface is dry before watering, to avoid overwatering which can cause root rot.
Fertilizing reasonably
Blue Stone Lotus needs appropriate fertilization to grow healthier. You can use regular compound fertilizer or organic fertilizer, but pay attention to the amount and timing of fertilization to avoid over-fertilizing or fertilizing in late autumn and winter.
Adequate sunlight
Blue Stone Lotus needs sufficient sunlight to grow normally. When planting in an "exploding pot", the pot should be placed in a sunny location, receiving at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily.
Paying attention to temperature and humidity
The suitable growth temperature for Blue Stone Lotus is between 18°C and 25°C; temperatures too high or too low will affect its growth. At the same time, attention should be paid to maintaining appropriate humidity, which can be increased by misting with water or covering with a damp cloth.
Weeding in a timely manner
When caring for Blue Stone Lotus in an "exploding pot", weeds around the pot should be removed regularly to keep the area clean.
Preventing and controlling pests and diseases
Regularly check Blue Stone Lotus for pests and diseases. If any pests or fungal infections are found, timely control measures should be taken to prevent their spread.
Paying attention to repotting
When Blue Stone Lotus grows to the point where the pot is too small or the roots are too dense, it should be repotted in a timely manner. Before repotting, empty the bottom of the original pot, then take the Blue Stone Lotus out, remove excess soil, and place it in a new pot.
Reasonable pairing
Blue Stone Lotus can be planted in combination with other plants, such as ivy and other succulents, to enhance the ornamental effect. However, attention should be paid to the growth requirements and adaptability of different plants.
Paying attention to avoiding direct sun and rain
During the hot and rainy summer season, Blue Stone Lotus is susceptible to damage from direct sun and rain. The pot should be moved to avoid direct exposure and being rained on.
Pruning in an orderly manner
Prune regularly and in an orderly manner to control the growth direction of the branches and buds, making the branching and flower stalks neater and more beautiful.
Paying attention to the repotting cycle
Under normal circumstances, Blue Stone Lotus needs to be repotted once a year. However, the specific repotting cycle depends on the actual situation and can be determined based on factors such as pot size and root growth.
Through the "exploding pot" maintenance method, Blue Stone Lotus can achieve better growth and display effects. In the process of care, attention should be paid to selecting the right pot and soil, controlling the amount of watering, fertilization, and sunlight exposure. At the same time, details such as pest and disease prevention, repotting, and companion planting should also be noted to ensure that the Blue Stone Lotus is healthy, strong, and full of lush greenery and blossoms.