Maintaining Schefflera in winter, mastering these techniques will help your plant safely survive the cold season.

Temperature Control, Light Management, Watering and Fertilizing, Pest and Disease Control, Pruning and Shaping

Philodendron bipinnatifidum, also known as the鸭掌木 (Duckbill plant), is an indoor plant with extremely high ornamental value. It is deeply loved by plant enthusiasts for its unique leaf shape and shade-tolerant growth habit. In the cold winter, the maintenance of Philodendron bipinnatifidum becomes a challenge. This article will introduce you to the winter maintenance methods for Philodendron bipinnatifidum, helping your plant safely endure the cold season.

Temperature Control

The suitable growth temperature for Philodendron bipinnatifidum in winter is between 15-25°C. When the temperature drops below 10°C, the growth of Philodendron bipinnatifidum will be severely affected, and it may even suffer frostbite. When maintaining Philodendron bipinnatifidum in winter, the following points should be noted:

1. Place Philodendron bipinnatifidum indoors to avoid damage from outdoor low temperatures.

2. Maintain a stable indoor temperature and avoid large fluctuations.

3. On cold nights, you can close the doors and windows appropriately to prevent the indoor temperature from dropping too low.

Light Management

Philodendron bipinnatifidum prefers scattered light. Although the winter sunlight is weak, it still needs to ensure adequate daily sunlight. Here are some light management methods:

1. Place Philodendron bipinnatifidum in a well-lit area indoors, such as a windowsill or balcony.

2. If the indoor lighting is insufficient, you can use a plant growth lamp to supplement the light.

3. Avoid placing Philodendron bipinnatifidum in a dark place to prevent yellowing leaves and slow growth.

Watering and Fertilizing

1. In winter, Philodendron bipinnatifidum's water requirement is relatively low. Watering should be moderate, keeping the soil slightly moist. Too much watering can lead to root rot.

2. In winter, the frequency of fertilizing can be reduced to avoid excessive growth caused by excessive fertilization.

3. When fertilizing, choose fertilizers low in nitrogen and high in phosphorus and potassium to promote plant growth in winter.

Pest and Disease Control

Winter is a high-incidence period for Philodendron bipinnatifidum pests and diseases. Here are some prevention and control methods:

1. Regularly inspect the plant and promptly remove any pests or diseases.

2. Use insecticides and fungicides for prevention and control, and be sure to follow the instructions strictly.

3. Maintain indoor ventilation to reduce the occurrence of pests and diseases.

Pruning and Shaping

1. Winter is a good time for pruning Philodendron bipinnatifidum. Trim its long and weak branches to promote plant growth.

2. After pruning, use a gardening shear to smooth the cut surfaces to prevent the invasion of germs.

3. Shape the plant appropriately to make Philodendron bipinnatifidum more beautiful.

Maintaining Philodendron bipinnatifidum in winter requires special attention to temperature, light, watering, fertilizing, and pest and disease control. As long as you master the correct maintenance methods, your Philodendron bipinnatifidum will safely survive the cold winter and add a touch of green to your home.

References:

[1] "Indoor Plant Maintenance Manual," China Forestry Publishing House, 2018.

[2] "Home Flower Care Guide," Shanghai Science and Technology Publishing House, 2017.

[3] "Plant Pest and Disease Control Technology," China Agricultural Publishing House, 2016.