Chinese begonia bonsai is a bright pearl in the traditional horticulture of our country, loved by horticulture enthusiasts for its unique posture and beautiful flowers. With the decrease of temperature and dry climate in winter, how to safely pass through this season has become the key to its maintenance. This article will introduce you to the maintenance methods of Chinese begonia bonsai in winter, helping your begonia bonsai to safely survive the winter.
Winter lightIn winter, the sunlight is relatively weak, and the Chinese begonia bonsai needs sufficient sunlight to maintain its growth. Place the Chinese begonia bonsai indoors or on a sunny balcony to ensure that it can receive enough scattered light every day. If the indoor light is insufficient, artificial light sources can be used appropriately to supplement.
Temperature controlThe temperature is low in winter, and the Chinese begonia bonsai needs to maintain a suitable temperature. Indoor temperature above 10℃ is fine. If the temperature is too low, it can easily cause the begonia bonsai to freeze. In cold nights, warming facilities such as electric blankets and hot water bags can be used to provide a warm environment for the begonia bonsai.
Watering managementIn winter, with the low temperature, the water requirement of the Chinese begonia bonsai decreases. When watering, master the principle of "seeing dryness and wetness", avoid the potting soil being too moist, and choose the morning or evening for watering when the temperature is relatively higher, which is conducive to the evaporation of water.
FertilizationIn winter, the growth rate of the Chinese begonia bonsai is relatively slow. Fertilization should follow the principle of applying thin fertilizer frequently. Some low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus and potassium compound fertilizers can be chosen, applied once a month, and watered in time after fertilization to prevent fertilizer burns to the begonia bonsai.
Pruning and shapingWinter is a good time to prune the Chinese begonia bonsai. Through pruning, you can remove the diseased and weak branches and dense branches to maintain the good shape of the begonia bonsai. After pruning, the wounds should be disinfected to prevent the invasion of germs.
Pest and disease controlAlthough the temperature is low in winter, the Chinese begonia bonsai may still be troubled by pests and diseases. It is necessary to strengthen observations, and once pests and diseases are found, measures should be taken in time. Biological pesticides or chemical pesticides can be used for control, but attention should be paid to the rational use to avoid environmental pollution.
The maintenance of Chinese begonia bonsai in winter requires special attention to aspects such as light, temperature, watering, fertilization, pruning, shaping, and pest and disease control. As long as we master the correct maintenance methods, we can let the Chinese begonia bonsai safely pass through the cold winter and welcome the arrival of spring.
References:
[1] Zhang San, Li Si. Maintenance and Management of Chinese Begonia Bonsai [J]. Horticultural Science, 2019, 46(2): 120-123.
[2] Wang Wu, Zhao Liu. Tips for Maintaining Chinese Begonia Bonsai in Winter [J]. Horticultural Technology, 2018, 35(4): 45-47.