Key Points for plum blossom Care
As the first among traditional famous Chinese flowers, plum blossom is deeply loved for its character of defying snow and frost. Mastering scientific care methods can ensure that potted plum blossom blossoms every year. This article comprehensively analyzes the cultivation essentials of plum blossom at home, from environmental regulation to shaping pruning.
Three Elements of plum blossom Environmental Regulation
Substrate Proportion and Improvement
Potted plants are recommended to use a mixed substrate of humus soil + river sand + pond mud (4:3:3), with the clay ratio controlled within 30%. Add bone meal as a base fertilizer when repotting in early spring, and mix 200g of calcium superphosphate per cubic meter of soil to increase phosphorus content.
Regulation of Light Intensity
In the growing period, it is necessary to have 4-6 hours of scattered light per day, and set up a 50% shade net in summer. Move to a full light environment 20 days before the winter flowering period to stimulate flower bud differentiation through the photoperiod.
Temperature Gradient Management
Maintaining a temperature difference of 10-15°C is beneficial for flowering, and controlling the night temperature at 5-8°C during the flower bud formation period. In the northern regions, dormancy can be broken by cold storage treatment (0°C/30 days).
Water and Fertilizer Precision Management Plan
Water-saving Irrigation Techniques
Use the dry-wet method, water thoroughly every 3-5 days in spring and autumn, and spray moistening in the early morning and evening in summer. Use acidified water with a pH of 6.0-6.5, and regularly add ferrous sulfate (0.2% concentration) to prevent yellow leaves.
Supply of Nutritional Cycle
Apply high-phosphorus fertilizer (N-P-K=5-15-10) after flowering, and switch to balanced fertilizer (20-20-20) during the growth period of new shoots. Stop nitrogen application and increase potassium in September, and spray phosphorus potassium fertilizer (800 times liquid) on the leaves to promote lignification of branches.
Shaping Pruning and Overwintering Protection
Immediately cut the flowering branches after flowering, leaving 2-3 buds. Pinch off the top in summer to control excessive growth, and thin out intersecting branches in winter. In the north, it is necessary to cover the soil for cold protection and wrap the main stem with straw rope to resist -15°C low temperature.
Through precise environmental regulation and scientific care, even beginners can cultivate exquisite plum blossom with flourishing flowers and leaves. Mastering the key points of care in different growth stages allows this thousand-year-old famous flower to continue its legend of defying snow in modern dwellings.