Succulent plants are beloved by many gardening enthusiasts for their unique shapes and low-maintenance characteristics. In the process of caring for succulent plants, the choice of fertilizer is a crucial step. Let's explore whether succulent plants truly like cake fertilizer.
Nutritional Requirements of Succulent PlantsSucculent plants are native to arid and semi-arid regions, where the soil in their natural habitat is often poor. Therefore, their nutritional requirements are not as high as those of other plants. In their natural environment, succulent plants adapt to drought mainly by accumulating water, rather than by frequently absorbing nutrients from the soil.
Composition and Characteristics of Cake FertilizerCake fertilizer is an organic fertilizer, primarily derived from the by-products of processing plant seeds, fruits, or roots. It contains abundant elements such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, as well as some trace elements, which have a significant effect on promoting plant growth. The degree of decomposition, water content, and nutrient release rate of the cake fertilizer are all factors that need to be considered when selecting it.
Compatibility of Succulent Plants and Cake FertilizerAlthough cake fertilizer is rich in nutrients, whether it is suitable for use with succulent plants requires careful consideration. Here are some reasons:
1. Degree of decomposition: Undecomposed cake fertilizer may generate excessive heat in the soil, leading to root rot in succulent plants. It must be fully decomposed before use.
2. Nutrient concentration: The nutrient concentration in cake fertilizer is relatively high. If applied directly, it may cause root burn in succulent plants. It should be diluted before use.
3. Nutrient release rate: The nutrient release rate of cake fertilizer is slow, making it suitable as a base fertilizer. However, succulent plants do not have high nutrient requirements, and excessive base fertilizer may lead to nutrient surplus.
Application of Cake Fertilizer in Succulent Plant CareAlthough cake fertilizer is not the first-choice fertilizer for succulent plants, it can be used as a supplementary fertilizer in the following situations:
1. As a base fertilizer: When repotting in the spring, a small amount of cake fertilizer can be applied to the bottom of the pot to provide nutrients for the entire year.
2. Slow-release fertilizer: Mixing cake fertilizer with soil can create a slow-release fertilizer that gradually releases nutrients.
3. Attracting beneficial microorganisms: During the decomposition process, cake fertilizer attracts beneficial microorganisms in the soil, which helps improve the soil environment.
Succulent plants do not necessarily "like" cake fertilizer, but its rational use can provide them with necessary nutrients. When caring for succulent plants, it is recommended to choose well-decomposed and diluted cake fertilizer, and pay attention to controlling the amount to avoid causing harm. It can be combined with other fertilizers, such as slow-release fertilizers and organic fertilizers, to provide comprehensive nutrition for succulent plants.
References:
[1] Zhang, L., & Li, M. (2018). *Cultivation and Maintenance of Succulent Plants*. Beijing: China Agriculture Press.
[2] Chen, H., & Wang, L. (2019). Research progress on the application of fertilizers for succulent plants. *Acta Horticulturae Sinica*, 46(5), 1-8.