Chrysanthemum Fertilizing Methods
As the leading traditional famous flower in China, the key to growing and caring for chrysanthemums lies in scientific fertilization. A reasonable nutrient supply not only promotes robust plant growth but also makes the flowers large and colorful. This article will systematically analyze the fertilizing characteristics of chrysanthemums at different growth stages, helping flower enthusiasts master precise fertilizing techniques.
Nutritional Needs During Chrysanthemum Growth Cycle
Base Fertilizer Application During Cultivation and Planting Stage
Use decomposed sheep manure (3kg/m²) mixed with bone meal (200g/m²) as the base fertilizer when planting, which can improve soil structure and provide long-acting nutrients for root development. It is recommended to pre-bury slow-release granular fertilizer (N-P-K=8-5-6) in the soil, continuously releasing nutrients for 90 days.
Top-dressing Program During Vegetative Growth Stage
From the germination of new buds to before budding, water with diluted amino acid water-soluble fertilizer (nitrogen content ≥18%) every 15 days, and配合 foliar application of 0.2% urea solution to accelerate leaf development. Pay attention to the plant: when the leaves are light yellow, additional application of ferrous sulfate (1g/L) is needed to adjust the pH.
Nutritional Management During Reproductive Growth Stage
In the early stage of budding, switch to high phosphorus and potassium fertilizer (N-P-K=5-15-30), using both root irrigation and foliar application for dual supplementation. It is recommended to alternate the application of monopotassium phosphate (800 times liquid) and seaweed extract (1000 times liquid), which can increase the number of flower buds by 40% and increase the petal thickness by 25%.
Organic and Inorganic Fertilizer Ratio Strategy
Traditional Organic Fertilizer Improvement Scheme
Mix soybean cake fertilizer (40%), wood ash (30%), and bone meal (30%) and ferment for 60 days before use, applying 200g per plant. The combination with EM agents can increase the efficiency of fertilizer conversion and reduce the risk of root burning.
Modern Slow-release Fertilizer Application Skills
It is recommended to use coated controlled-release fertilizer (3-4 months release type), combined with water-soluble fertilizer to form a "long-acting + fast-acting" combination. For potted chrysanthemums, use Ogreen 318S (N-P-K=18-6-12), and for ground-planted chrysanthemums, use Meleke花卉型 slow-release fertilizer.
Special Care Considerations
In the summer, when the temperature is high (>35℃), stop using solid fertilizers and switch to potassium fulvate (2000 times liquid) to protect the roots. Stop fertilizing 45 days before the winter dormancy period and配合 pruning to reduce nutrient consumption. In case of fertilizer damage, immediately rinse the roots with clean water and replace 50% of the substrate.
By mastering the fertilizing rules of chrysanthemums at different growth stages, combined with the scientific ratio of organic and inorganic fertilizers, and the correct timing and method of fertilization, chrysanthemums can have compact plant shapes and large, colorful flowers. It is recommended to establish a fertilizing log, recording the type of fertilizer used, concentration, and plant response, to gradually optimize personalized fertilizing plans.