Can You Buy Orchid Seeds in Summer?
Orchids, as representatives of elegant flowers, the choice of planting time directly affects their survival rate. The unique climatic conditions of high temperature and strong sunlight in summer bring special challenges to orchid cultivation. This article will delve into the six key aspects of orchid selection and maintenance during the high-temperature season, helping orchid enthusiasts break through planting bottlenecks.
Analysis of the Feasibility of Orchid Planting in Summer
1.1 Physiological Challenges of High-Temperature Planting
Orchid roots are sensitive to temperature; when the substrate temperature exceeds 28°C, they enter a dormant state. At this time, the germination of new roots is hindered, and old roots are prone to rot, which is the main cause of the low survival rate of summer planting.
1.2 Possibility of Climate Control
By installing double-layer sunshades, the light intensity can be reduced by 60%, and by combining it with a water curtain cooling system, the temperature in the planting area can be stabilized at 26-28°C. Modern intelligent greenhouse technology has provided hardware support for summer orchid planting.
Practical Techniques for Buying Orchids in Summer
2.1 Standards for Physical Store Selection
Observe the integrity of the waxy layer on the leaf surface, and choose plants with pseudobulb fullness ≥80%. Gently shake the plant to test root adhesion, and the looseness of the substrate should be less than 30%.
2.2 Risk Avoidance for Online Shopping
Give priority to cold chain transportation service providers and request the use of 72-hour constant temperature boxes. Upon receipt, check the humidity of the aerial roots, which should be slightly moist but not dripping water.
Summer Planting Environmental Control System
3.1 Optimal Temperature and Humidity Ratio
Daytime temperatures should be controlled between 25-28°C, and nighttime temperatures can be reduced to 22°C. The air humidity should be maintained at 70%-80%, achieved through precise control with an ultrasonic humidifier.
3.2 Configuration of Ventilation System
It is recommended to install a circulation system with 6 air changes per hour, using a diagonal ventilation design to avoid dead air corners. During the high-temperature noon hours, intermittent strong exhaust ventilation can be started.
Key Points of Summer Maintenance Control
4.1 Management of Irrigation Time Window
Irrigation should be done 2 hours after sunset, and the water temperature should be pre-adjusted to a difference of ≤3°C from the ambient temperature. Using a drip irrigation system, each watering should not exceed 200ml.
4.2 Fertilization Strategy
Use a balanced nutrient solution with an EC value of 1.2-1.5mS/cm, combined with 0.1% seaweed extract. Spray 3000 times dilution of potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution on the leaves every 10 days.
Through scientific facility control and meticulous management, the survival rate of orchid planting in summer can be increased to over 85%. It is recommended for beginners to start with strong-resistant Cymbidium species and gradually master the core techniques of orchid cultivation during the high-temperature season.