Ruyi Empress Flower, also known as Red-Leaf Crape Myrtle, is an ornamental plant with a very high value. Its leaves can turn into bright red under specific conditions, becoming a highlight in home gardening. How do the leaves of Ruyi Empress Flower turn red? This article will provide a detailed analysis of the maintenance techniques and scientific principles for the leaves of Ruyi Empress Flower to turn red.
Light and Temperature1. Light: Ruyi Empress Flower loves light and requires ample sunlight. In an environment with sufficient light, the leaves will gradually turn red. If it is kept in a dark place for a long time, the leaves will find it difficult to turn red.
2. Temperature: Ruyi Empress Flower is sensitive to temperature, with the suitable growth temperature being 15-35°C. Within this suitable temperature range, the leaves will show a better red color change effect.
Soil and Water1. Soil: Ruyi Empress Flower is not picky about soil, but it is preferable to use well-drained, fertile, and loose sandy soil. The soil pH value should be slightly acidic to neutral.
2. Water: Keeping the soil moist is the key. When watering, avoid waterlogging and accumulation of water to prevent root rot. During the period when the leaves turn red, appropriately increasing the amount of water can help accelerate the color change process.
Fertilization and Pruning1. Fertilization: During the growth period of Ruyi Empress Flower, it is necessary to apply sufficient fertilizer. Compound fertilizer or organic fertilizer can be used, applied once every 20 days. During the period when the leaves turn red, appropriately increasing the application of phosphorus and potassium fertilizer can help accelerate the leaves turning red.
2. Pruning: Timely pruning helps the plant grow and the leaves turn red. In the growing season, the plant can be lightly pruned to remove sick and weak branches, crossed branches, and dense branches, promoting ventilation and light penetration of the plant.
Pest and Disease Control1. Diseases: Ruyi Empress Flower is susceptible to diseases such as leaf spot and powdery mildew. When diseases are found, fungicides should be sprayed in a timely manner for control.
2. Pests: Ruyi Empress Flower is prone to pests such as aphids and red spiders. When pests are found, insecticides can be sprayed for control.
Color Change PrincipleThe red color change of Ruyi Empress Flower leaves is mainly related to the content of anthocyanin in the leaves. Anthocyanin is a water-soluble pigment whose color changes with the pH value. In acidic conditions, anthocyanin is red; in alkaline conditions, anthocyanin is blue. By adjusting the soil pH value and fertilization, the synthesis of anthocyanin can be promoted, making the leaves turn red.
The key to the leaves of Ruyi Empress Flower turning red lies in reasonable maintenance and management. By adjusting aspects such as light, temperature, soil, water, fertilization, pruning, and pest and disease control, the leaves of Ruyi Empress Flower can present a bright red color. It is hoped that this article will be helpful to you, and may you enjoy abundant joy in the process of maintaining Ruyi Empress Flower.