How to Care for White Peony
As a star variety among succulents, the White Peony is favored by gardening enthusiasts for its silver-white, jade-like leaves and unique lotus seat shape. To bring out the best in this 'Echeveria hybrid beauty', it is necessary to master scientific care methods. This article will provide a comprehensive analysis of the cultivation secrets of the White Peony, from environmental control to propagation techniques.
1. Environmental Control for White Peony Growth
1.1 Substrate Mixture and Repotting Cycle
It is recommended to mix volcanic rock, vermiculite, and coarse river sand in a 2:1:1 ratio, which has a porosity of over 40%, ensuring both good drainage and nutrient storage. When repotting every 2-3 years in spring, add 5% bone meal to enhance soil fertility.
1.2 Light and Temperature Difference Control
In spring and autumn, maintain 6 hours of direct sunlight per day, and shade 50% in summer to avoid sunburn. Maintain an environment above 10°C in winter, and a day-night temperature difference of more than 8°C can make the leaf edges show a pink border.
1.3 Accurate Watering Strategy
Use the 'soak pot' method to water every 10 days, and extend it to 15 days during the high-temperature dormant period in summer. Judge the water deficiency by observing the shrinkage of the bottom leaves and avoid water accumulation on the top that could lead to black rot.
2. Key Points of Daily Management for White Peony
2.1 Art of Pruning and Shaping
Remove the bottom 3-4 layers of leaves during the growing season to promote the differentiation of lateral buds, and use a curved forceps sanitized with alcohol for precise operation. When cutting the top of a leggy plant, leave a 5cm stem and apply a fungicide to the cut surface to prevent infection.
2.2 Disease and Pest Control
Regularly spray neem oil to prevent scale insects, and apply a small amount of white medicine before the plum rain season to prevent root mealybugs. If black rot is found, immediately cut off the affected tissue, let the roots dry for 3 days, and then replant in new soil.
3. Advanced Propagation Techniques for White Peony
3.1 Leaf Insertion Secrets
Select healthy leaves from the middle, gently twist them off at a 45-degree angle, and place them flat on slightly moist perlite. Maintain a constant temperature of 25°C, and red root points can be observed after 2 weeks.
3.2 Fast Branch Insertion to Form Plants
Cut a 5cm top shoot, let it dry for 3 days, and then insert it diagonally into vermiculite. Use a transparent cover to maintain 80% humidity and pair with a 3000lux grow light for 12 hours a day, and roots can form in 20 days.
Through systematic care and management, the White Peony can maintain a compact growth habit and display its enchanting frost color. It is recommended to take growth record photos every quarter, compare and adjust the care plan, and let this 'succulent fairy' bloom eternally in your hands.