When to propagate chrysanthemums
As a traditional famous flower in China, propagating chrysanthemums is an important way to continue their beauty. Mastering the correct timing and methods of propagation can help each new seedling maintain the superior characteristics of the parent plant. This article will systematically analyze the entire process of propagating chrysanthemums from time selection to operational details, helping you easily cultivate healthy plants.
I. Choosing the Golden Time for Propagating Chrysanthemums
1.1 Best Propagation Period in Spring
March to May is the golden period for propagating chrysanthemums, as the temperature is stable between 18-25°C, the air humidity is suitable, and the germination of new buds is strong. It is recommended to choose consecutive sunny days and avoid rainy seasons.
1.2 Avoiding Risks in Summer
High temperatures and humidity after July can easily cause black rot disease, reducing the survival rate of propagation by over 60%. If it is necessary to operate in summer, a sunshade shed should be built and ventilation should be enhanced, keeping the substrate temperature below 28°C.
II. Professional Techniques for Propagating Chrysanthemums
2.1 Scientific Treatment of Stems
Select semi-woody new shoots, retain 3-4 leaf nodes, and leave 2 expanded leaves at the top. Make a diagonal cut at a 45-degree angle, 0.5 cm away from the leaf bud, ensuring that each cutting has a complete growing point.
2.2 Precise Substrate Ratio
Recommended formula: decomposed leaf soil: perlite: vermiculite = 3:1:1. The substrate needs to be sterilized with high-temperature steam and the pH value should be controlled between 6.0-6.5, ensuring good drainage and aeration.
2.3 Disinfection and Rooting Treatment
Soak the base in a 1000ppm indole butyric acid solution for 2 hours, which can increase the rooting rate by 30%. Keep all tools sterile throughout the operation to avoid cross-contamination.
2.4 Intelligent Maintenance Management
After propagation, build a small arch shed to maintain 80% air humidity. Use an intermittent misting system, controlling daily sunlight exposure to 4-6 hours, and new roots can be seen in about 20 days.
III. Key Maintenance Points After Propagation
When new roots grow to 3 cm, start hardening the seedlings and gradually increase the duration of sunlight. Before transplanting, water the roots with a seaweed extract solution to effectively prevent transplanting stress. Regularly observe the leaf condition and promptly control diseases and pests such as aphids.
By scientifically controlling the timing and following standardized operations, the survival rate of chrysanthemum propagation can reach over 95%. Mastering these core techniques will also allow you to easily achieve large-scale propagation of chrysanthemums and create your own autumn flower sea.