What to Do When a Bromeliad Wilt
Bromeliads, as perennial herbaceous plants of the pineapple family, are favored by horticulture enthusiasts for their unique rosette leaf clusters and beautiful inflorescences. However, when leaves turn yellow and wither, or flower stems dry up and droop, many plant lovers often feel at a loss. This article will systematically analyze the three main causes of bromeliad wilt and provide operable revival care solutions.
Analysis of the Main Causes of Bromeliad Wilt
Natural Phenomenon of Life Cycle
Bromeliads bloom only once in their lifetime, and after the blooming period, the mother plant will gradually wilt, which is part of its natural growth pattern. At this time, 3-5 offsets will sprout at the bottom of the leaf tube, and these offsets can be transplanted when they have grown 5-6 true leaves.
Warning Signals of Disease Infection
When non-blooming wilt occurs, be alert to root rot and chlorosis. Root rot initially presents with withered leaves and brown, water-soaked roots; chlorosis starts from the leaf tip, gradually spreading towards the base.
Complete Guide to Disease Control
Solution for Root Rot Treatment
Immediately remove the plant from the pot, wash the roots, cut off the brown and rotting root sections, and soak in a 50% carbendazim solution diluted 800 times for 30 minutes. Use a breathable substrate mix of珍珠岩 (perlite): peat soil = 1:3, and initially control the watering frequency to keep the substrate slightly moist.
Measures for Chlorosis Correction
Water the roots with a 0.2% ferrous sulfate solution monthly, and spray chelated iron fertilizer on the leaves. For regular watering, use acidified water with a pH of 5.5-6.5, which can be adjusted with citric acid.
Guide to Pest Control
Key Points for Scale Insect Control
Apply 40% fenvalerate emulsion 1500 times diluted spray during the larval stage, and use 40% omethoate emulsion 2000 times diluted solution for root irrigation on adults. Focus on treating the back of the leaves and the gaps in the leaf sheath, with continuous treatments every 7 days for three times.
Tips for Eradicating Red Spider Mites
Alternately use 20% dicofol emulsion 800 times diluted and 5% abamectin emulsion 3000 times diluted. Strengthen ventilation during hot seasons and maintain air humidity above 60% to effectively inhibit pest infestations.
Revival Care Techniques
Division and transplantation should be done in spring or autumn, using a mixed substrate of decomposed leaf soil, river sand, and vermiculite (2:1:1). During the growing season, apply water-soluble orchid-specific fertilizer every two weeks, and maintain a wintering temperature of over 15°C. Regularly rotate the pot to ensure even lighting, and keep 2-3 cm of water in the leaf tube.
By scientifically diagnosing the causes of wilt, combined with precise pest and disease control and scientific care management, even bromeliads on the verge of wilt can be revitalized. Mastering the technique of division propagation can achieve the奇迹 of multiplying a single plant into multiple ones.