The Cultivation Method of Queen of the Cliffs
This article provides a detailed introduction to the cultivation of the Queen of the Cliffs, a type of succulent plant. Let's take a look together!
The Queen of the Cliffs is a representative variety of tuberous succulents. Many enthusiasts are attracted to it, but few know how to cultivate it properly, leading to various issues. This article is a summary of Mr. Han Wengen's years of experience in cultivating the Queen of the Cliffs, which is very valuable for enthusiasts.
Many enthusiasts find that their Queen of the Cliffs either does not grow or dies with hollow stems, and some do not bloom even after many years. In fact, the Queen of the Cliffs is not difficult to cultivate. By mastering a few key techniques, the plant will thrive with lush growth and vitality.
1. What type of soil does the Queen of the Cliffs need?
First, let's understand the native environment of the Queen of the Cliffs. It originally grows in the crevices of cliffs on the Brazilian plateau, where the soil is sparse and rich in humus, relying on natural rainwater and dewdrops. The roots of the Queen of the Cliffs are mostly fibrous, so it is not very demanding about the soil. It can tolerate a bit more or less, coarse or fine, as long as some organic matter is added. Of course, if possible, slightly coarser soil particles are more beneficial for moisture control.
2. How to water the Queen of the Cliffs?
The Queen of the Cliffs is drought-tolerant, and remembering this characteristic is very useful. However, maintaining some moisture is more conducive to rapid growth and bud formation. Generally, the Queen of the Cliffs stops growing below 10 degrees Celsius, at which time watering should be controlled. You can wrap the plant in a plastic bag to reduce moisture evaporation, and it can even be without water during the winter. Above 36 degrees Celsius, the plant grows very slowly and also requires controlled watering, not too moist. During the growing season, more water is fine. Some ask, how often should I water? This question is not very professional, as water evaporation is influenced by various conditions. For example, during continuous rainy days, you may not need to water for a month, while in the intense summer sun, you may need to supplement water daily. This depends on the actual situation and requires experience accumulation.
3. Light
The Queen of the Cliffs loves light, also because of its native environment. Generally, except for needing 70% shade in the summer, the plant can be exposed to full sunlight in winter, autumn, and spring. Of course, if this condition is not met, placing it in a place with the strongest scattered light where direct sunlight does not reach will also allow it to grow normally.
4. Fertilization
The Queen of the Cliffs can tolerate poor soil and does not usually need additional fertilizer with organic matter. If you must fertilize, a thin, well-fermented liquid fertilizer can be applied. Avoid using thick or raw fertilizers to prevent root burn.
Finally, let's discuss the key technique for flowering. Although the old branches of the Queen of the Cliffs can bloom, they usually do not produce many or vigorous flowers and cannot set seeds. After years of observation and practice, it has been found that the plant produces more and denser flower buds on new branches, with vigorous blooming. The Queen of the Cliffs is also very tolerant of pruning. Generally, in early spring (or winter in a greenhouse), old branches can be pruned, but it is important to observe whether new buds have emerged at the base. If not, pruning should be done cautiously, as removing old branches without new buds may lead to death. After old branches are pruned, new buds will grow faster, and after 5-6 leaves, small flower buds can be seen.
These are the experiences I have gained over the years and are not exhaustive. I hope everyone will continue to improve them in practice. There are nearly 20 varieties of the Queen of the Cliffs in China. Whether other varieties, except for the Queen of the Cliffs, white-flowered Queen of the Cliffs, yellow-flowered Queen of the Cliffs, and绯牡丹, are applicable remains to be observed.
The above is a related explanation of the cultivation method of the Queen of the Cliffs, hoping to bring a little help to your life!