The Cultivation Methods and Precautions for Four O'Clocks
Four O'Clocks are loved for their unique trumpet-shaped flowers and strong fragrance, but many gardening enthusiasts have experienced the disappointment of wilted plants due to improper care. Mastering scientific cultivation methods can ensure that Four O'Clocks bloom continuously from spring to autumn, becoming the most eye-catching feature in the garden. This article will systematically analyze the key points of care from six dimensions.
I. Soil Mixture and Substrate Selection
1.1 Ideal Soil Characteristics
Four O'Clocks are sensitive to waterlogging in the roots, so it is recommended to use a golden ratio of leaf mold soil + coarse sand + perlite (5:3:2). This structure has a porosity of 35%, allowing for rapid water penetration within 2 seconds. Before planting, mix 10g of decomposed sheep manure into each liter of soil as a base fertilizer to ensure a balanced supply of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
1.2 pH Adjustment
Regularly test the soil pH value and maintain it at a slightly acidic environment of 6.0-6.8. You can water with a diluted solution of ferrous sulfate (500 times) once a month, which can supplement iron and balance the pH.
II. Light and Temperature Control
2.1 Light Management Plan
Ensure 6 hours of direct sunlight in spring and autumn, use a 30% shade net to filter strong light in summer. In winter, when caring for plants indoors, maintain a distance of 40cm from the supplementary light source and provide 4 hours of additional light daily to prevent etiolation. Remember to rotate the pot regularly to ensure even light exposure.
2.2 Temperature Control Techniques
18-25°C is the best growth range, and ventilation needs to be enhanced when temperatures exceed 32°C. Maintain temperatures above 12°C in winter, and wrap the rootstock with non-woven fabric before the arrival of cold fronts. It is recommended to cover the ground with a 5cm thick layer of pine needles for insulation in outdoor cultivation.
III. Precise Water and Fertilizer Management
3.1 Watering Cycle Control
Use the 'stick method' to determine the watering time: insert a bamboo stick into the soil 2/3 of the way and water when no sticky soil is present when pulled out. Water thoroughly every 5-7 days in spring and autumn, every 3 days in summer, and every 15 days in winter. Be careful to avoid water accumulation on leaves that can cause burns.
3.2 Scientific Fertilization System
During the growing season, alternately use "Flower More No. 1" (NPK 20-20-20) and monopotassium phosphate (0.2% solution) every 10 days. Add bone meal during the budding stage, with 15g buried at the edge of the pot. Stop fertilizing in winter to prevent root burn.
IV. Key Points for Disease and Pest Control
4.1 Common Disease Treatment
In the early stages of powdery mildew, wipe the affected leaves with 75% alcohol, and in severe cases, spray with Lunaasen 2000 times solution. For root rot, apply metalaxyl-M 1500 times solution to the roots, continuously for 3 times, with a 5-day interval.
4.2 Pest Control Strategies
When red spider mites爆发, spray the back of the leaves with a mixture of orange peel water (1:10 soak) and abamectin 3000 times solution. Aphids can be controlled physically with yellow sticky traps, with 2 traps per square meter for significant effect.
Through systematic care, Four O'Clocks can bloom for more than 200 days a year. The key is to grasp the three principles of 'moist but not waterlogged, warm but avoiding extreme heat, and frequent but thin fertilization.' It is recommended to establish a care log, recording each watering and fertilizing time, to gradually master the growth patterns of the plant.