Crape Myrtle, also known as "Itchy Flower," is loved by horticulture enthusiasts for its bright and beautiful flowers, long blooming period, and easy maintenance. As a potted plant with high ornamental value, the cultivation methods of Crape Myrtle have gradually become the focus of attention for horticulture enthusiasts. This article will provide a detailed analysis of the cultivation methods of Crape Myrtle in pots, helping you easily create a beautiful Crape Myrtle pot.
Selecting Seedlings and Purchasing1. Variety Selection: There are many varieties of Crape Myrtle, such as common Crape Myrtle, white Crape Myrtle, and golden edge Crape Myrtle. When choosing, you can select a suitable variety based on personal preferences and the cultivation environment.
2. Choosing Healthy Plants: When purchasing Crape Myrtle pots, you should choose plants with well-developed roots, free from diseases and pests, and with lush branches and leaves.
Soil Selection and Preparation1. Soil Requirements: Crape Myrtle prefers fertile, well-drained soil with a pH value of 5.5-6.5.
2. Soil Preparation: You can mix decomposed leaf soil, garden soil, and river sand in a certain proportion and add an appropriate amount of decomposed organic fertilizer.
Potting and Placement1. Potting Time: Spring and autumn are the best times for potting.
2. Potting Method: Remove the Crape Myrtle plant from the original pot, gently shake off some of the old soil, put it into a new pot, fill the soil and compact it, then water thoroughly.
3. Placement Location: Crape Myrtle loves sunlight and should be placed in a sunny area, avoiding long-term darkness.
Watering and Fertilizing1. Watering: Crape Myrtle prefers a humid environment but dislikes waterlogging. Watering should be done based on the dryness of the soil, keeping it slightly moist.
2. Fertilizing: Spring and autumn are the periods of vigorous growth for Crape Myrtle. Apply a compound fertilizer once a month; in summer and winter, the frequency of fertilizing can be reduced appropriately.
Pruning and Shaping1. Pruning Time: Spring and autumn are the best times for pruning.
2. Pruning Method: Cut off the weak and diseased branches, crossing branches, and inward-facing branches to maintain good ventilation and light penetration.
3. Shaping: Based on personal preferences, pruning can be carried out to shape the plant, such as making flower balls, tree stumps, etc.
Disease and Pest Control1. Diseases: Crape Myrtle is susceptible to diseases such as leaf spot and anthracnose. When diseases are found, promptly cut off the diseased branches and spray the corresponding pesticides.
2. Pests: Crape Myrtle is susceptible to pests such as aphids and red spiders. When pests are found, spray insecticides for control.
The cultivation of Crape Myrtle in pots is not complicated. By mastering basic methods such as selecting seedlings, soil, watering, fertilizing, and pruning, you can easily care for a beautiful Crape Myrtle pot. I hope this article can provide help for your cultivation journey.
References:
1. "China Flower and Horticulture" Magazine, Issue 5, 2019, Discussion on the Cultivation Techniques of Crape Myrtle.
2. "Horticultural Science" Magazine, Issue 2, 2020, Research on Disease and Pest Control of Crape Myrtle.