How to Care for Red plum blossom
As a traditional famous flower in China, the red plum blossom is renowned for its unique, snow-resistant beauty, much loved by horticulture enthusiasts. To cultivate a lush and flourishing red plum bonsai at home, it is necessary to master scientific and systematic care methods. This article will provide a detailed analysis of the key points in growing red plum blossoms, from basic care to advanced techniques.
Four Elements of Basic Care
Selection of Cultivation Substrate
The roots of red plum blossoms dislike waterlogging. It is recommended to use a mix of "decayed leaf soil + river sand + vermiculite" in a ratio of 5:3:2. When repotting in early spring each year, place 3cm of ceramsite at the bottom of the pot to enhance drainage, and preferentially choose purple sand or coarse ceramic pots.
Temperature and Humidity Control
The optimal growth temperature is between 15-22°C. In summer, when temperatures exceed 30°C, shading and misting are needed to cool down. In winter, the potted plants should be moved to a sunny indoor location, maintaining a temperature of over 5°C for overwintering, with air humidity controlled between 60%-70%.
Light Management
Ensure 6 hours of direct sunlight in spring and autumn, and shade 50% between 10-15 hours in summer. Regularly rotate the pot by 180° to ensure even light exposure to the plant and avoid the phenomenon of crown bias.
Advanced Cultivation Techniques
Water and Fertilizer Cycle Management
Use the "dry-wet" watering method, watering every 3 days in spring and autumn, and twice a day in summer morning and evening. During the growing season, apply a diluted 1000 times special plum fertilizer every half month, and add phosphorus and potassium fertilizers during the bud differentiation period.
Disease and Pest Control
Apply 70% methylthiophanate 800 times solution in advance during the high incidence period of powdery mildew, and use Sophoraflavescens extract biological preparation to control aphids. Regularly prune dense branches to maintain ventilation and light penetration.
Pruning Techniques for Shaping
Perform shaping pruning from December to February of the following year, retaining 3-5 main branches as the framework. When the new shoots reach 15cm, pinch the tips, and combine with wire wrapping to create classic shapes such as the curved trunk and cliff-style.
Through scientific care and artistic pruning, red plum blossoms can not only grow healthily but also become a living artwork that showcases the owner's aesthetic taste. Mastering the golden ratio of temperature, light, and water-fertilizer, along with regular disease and pest control, even beginners can cultivate exquisite red plum blossoms that bloom despite the cold.