Growing Chrysanthemums Indoors: Toxicity Analysis, Suitable Conditions, and Precautions
As a common ornamental plant, chrysanthemums have been loved by people since ancient times. However, many people worry that chrysanthemums are harmful to the human body and dare not grow them indoors. In fact, chrysanthemums not only do not cause harm to the human body, but they also have certain medicinal value. This article will introduce how to grow chrysanthemums indoors from three aspects: toxicity, suitable conditions, and precautions.
Understanding Chrysanthemum Toxicity
Chrysanthemums do not contain harmful substances; their leaves and petals are edible plants that not only do not cause harm to the human body but also have high medicinal value. However, chrysanthemums growing in the wild are sometimes bitten by insects, causing a white secretion to appear on the leaves, which is a toxic substance. If these leaves are accidentally ingested, it can lead to poisoning symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Suitable Conditions
Chrysanthemums prefer an environment with plenty of sunlight, good ventilation, and suitable humidity. When growing chrysanthemums indoors, you should choose a well-lit location and avoid prolonged exposure to intense sunlight. At the same time, pay attention to maintaining air circulation and appropriate humidity. The suitable temperature range is 18-24°C.
Choosing Suitable Varieties
When choosing chrysanthemum varieties for indoor cultivation, you should select based on your preferences and growing environment. Varieties that are relatively suitable for indoor planting include small-flowered chrysanthemums, florist's chrysanthemums, and endives. These varieties grow quickly and do not require too much light or water, making them very suitable for beginners.
Watering
Chrysanthemums are plants that prefer a moist environment, but it is also necessary to pay attention to watering methods. Generally, you can water moderately when the soil surface is slightly dry, avoiding too much or too little water. When watering, you should avoid pouring water directly onto the leaves to prevent them from rotting.
Fertilizing
Chrysanthemums grow fast and require a moderate amount of nutrient supplementation. Chrysanthemums grown indoors can be fertilized with organic or chemical fertilizers. Generally, fertilizing once every two weeks is sufficient. However, it is important to note that over-fertilizing can cause excessive plant growth, which is not good for the plant's health.
Pruning
Chrysanthemums grow quickly and can easily develop overly long branches and sparse stems and leaves. In this situation, you can prune them appropriately. This not only makes the plant neater and more beautiful but also promotes its growth. However, it should be noted that pruning should be done after the plant's growing season has ended.
Pest and Disease Prevention
Chrysanthemums grown indoors also need attention to pest and disease prevention. Common diseases include powdery mildew, gray mold, and leaf spot. Pesticides can be sprayed, but it is important to use them in moderation and not overuse them.
Repotting
During the growth process, chrysanthemums need to be repotted continuously. Generally, repotting once a year is sufficient. However, it is important to avoid damaging the roots excessively when repotting.
Paying Attention to Temperature
Chrysanthemums are quite adaptable to temperature, but it is still necessary to pay attention to the temperature. In winter, if the indoor temperature is too low, it will affect the growth of chrysanthemums, and you should take measures to keep them warm. In the case of high summer temperatures, it is also necessary to maintain proper ventilation and cooling.
Paying Attention to Sunlight Hours
Chrysanthemums love plenty of sunlight, but it is also necessary to pay attention to the hours of sunlight. In spring and summer, you should try to expose the chrysanthemums to sunlight, maintaining 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. However, in autumn and winter, you should avoid prolonged exposure to intense sunlight.
Regular Cleaning
Chrysanthemums grown indoors also need regular cleaning. You can gently wipe the leaves and flowers with a soft cloth to maintain the plant's health and beauty.
Avoiding Large Temperature Differences Between Day and Night
At night, the indoor temperature often drops, which can easily lead to a large temperature difference between day and night. This will affect the growth of chrysanthemums, and corresponding measures should be taken to keep them warm.
Paying Attention to the Hygiene of the Cultivation Environment
When growing chrysanthemums indoors, you should pay attention to the hygiene of the cultivation environment. Keep the air fresh and avoid piling up garbage and waste. At the same time, the soil should be replaced regularly to ensure the plant's growth and health.
Regularly Trimming Flower Stems
Chrysanthemums grown indoors need regular trimming of flower stems. This not only promotes the plant's growth but also makes the plant neater and more beautiful.
Growing chrysanthemums indoors is a very interesting activity. As long as you master some basic cultivation techniques, you can let the chrysanthemums grow healthily and bring beauty and vitality to our indoor space. I hope this article can be helpful to readers who want to grow chrysanthemums at home.