Camellia, named for its flower shape resembling a rose, is a common ornamental plant in southern China. In breeding and cultivation, we must focus on its maintenance. One of them is watering and fertilizing. For watering tips for camellias, you can learn from another article. This article mainly introduces suitable fertilizer selection.
I. Understanding the Nutrient Needs of Camellias
Camellias are light-loving plants with low nutrient requirements, and the suitable pH value is between 4.5-6. Camellias are suitable for applying fertilizers containing phosphorus, potassium, and nitrogen, among which phosphorus is essential for the flowering period.
II. Choose Organic Fertilizer
Using organic fertilizer helps to improve soil structure, increase soil fertility and microbial activity, allowing camellias to absorb more nutrients, which can not only promote flower bud growth but also improve resistance to pests and diseases.
III. Recommended Use of Compost
Compost can be mixed with other fertilizers to achieve better fertility effects. You can use a home compost bin to mix organic waste and other impurities, ferment them, and then mix them with the soil.
IV. Choose Specialized Fertilizer
You can choose some specialized fertilizers such as camellia-specific fertilizer or Polyanthus-specific fertilizer for application. These fertilizers contain various nutrient elements and can meet the needs of camellias at different growth stages.
V. Avoid Excessive Application of Nitrogen Fertilizer
Camellias are sensitive to nitrogen fertilizer. If too much nitrogen fertilizer is applied, it will cause excessive growth of camellias and easily lead to pests and diseases.
VI. Pay Attention to Fertilizer Concentration
Camellias are very sensitive to fertilizer concentration. If the concentration is too high, it will cause damage to the plant. Therefore, pay attention to controlling the concentration when fertilizing.
VII. Appropriate Interval Time
Pay attention to the interval time when fertilizing. Do not fertilize frequently. It is generally appropriate to apply fertilizer once every one to two months.
VIII. Choose Appropriate Amount of Quick-acting Fertilizer
If you want to quickly increase nutrients, you can use quick-acting fertilizer, but be careful not to overuse it, otherwise it can easily cause root burn.
IX. Pay Attention to Different Growth Stages When Fertilizing
The nutritional needs of camellias are different at different growth stages. In the early growth stage, apply an appropriate amount of phosphorus and potassium fertilizer to promote new bud growth; in the flowering period, apply more phosphorus fertilizer to enhance flower bud growth; after flowering, potassium-based fertilizer should be used to promote root development.
X. Avoid Fertilizing in Winter as Much as Possible
Winter is the dormant period for camellias. Fertilizing at this time will have a negative impact on its growth. Therefore, it is not recommended to fertilize in winter.
XI. Do Not Use Expired Fertilizer
Expired fertilizer can easily cause plant burns and soil pollution, so check if the fertilizer has expired before applying it.
XII. Fertilize at the Right Time
Fertilizing at the right time is key to ensuring the healthy growth of camellias. It is generally best to fertilize in spring and autumn.
XIII. Fertilizer Amount Should Not Be Excessive
Excessive fertilizer application can easily lead to root burn or damage to the soil structure, so fertilize in appropriate amounts.
XIV. Choose a Suitable Fertilizer Brand
When choosing fertilizer, be sure to select products from regular brands. You can choose a fertilizer that suits you by checking its ingredients and usage instructions, and by understanding the experience of others.
XV.
Camellia is a relatively easy plant to maintain, but there are some points to pay attention to in its care. When choosing fertilizer, it is necessary to select the appropriate fertilizer based on the growth cycle and the needs of different growth stages of the camellia. You can choose organic fertilizers, compost, quick-acting fertilizers, etc., for fertilization. When using fertilizer, pay attention to the time and amount of application to avoid the adverse effects of over-application.