What type of soil does plum blossoms use?
As the first among the top ten famous flowers in China, the growth state of plum blossoms is closely related to the cultivation substrate. Many flower enthusiasts often overlook the fundamental element of soil when they find that the plum trees are not growing well. What kind of soil environment can allow plum trees to spread their roots, and flourish with abundant flowers and leaves? Mastering soil selection and maintenance skills can make your plum blossom care more effective and less labor-intensive.
Three key benchmarks for soil selection
Requirements for aeration and drainage
The root system of plum trees belongs to the fleshy root system, which requires sufficient oxygen exchange. Experimental data shows that when the soil porosity reaches 35%, the growth rate of plum roots increases by 40%. It is recommended to use sandy loam soil as the main substrate, and mix in 20% vermiculite to enhance aeration.
Control of pH balance
Long-term monitoring indicates that a slightly acidic environment with a pH value of 5.5-6.5 is most beneficial for growth. In the northern regions, where soil alkalization is a common problem, this can be adjusted by watering with a diluted solution of lemon acid (2000 times) every month, which can reduce the pH value by 1 unit after 3 months.
Professional soil mixing plan
Basic formula ratio
Recommended formula: garden soil 40% + decomposed leaf soil 30% + river sand 20% + bone meal 10%. Decomposed leaf soil provides organic matter, river sand ensures drainage, and bone meal, with a phosphorus content of 28%, promotes bud differentiation.
Special improvement plan
For heavy clayey red soil: mix in rice husk charcoal at a 3:1 ratio, which not only improves the structure but also supplements potassium elements. For potted plants, it is recommended to add 5% pine bark, which enhances aeration and slowly releases humic acid.
Key points for soil maintenance
Preventative measures for soil compaction
Use bamboo sticks to loosen the topsoil every quarter, with a depth of 3-5 cm being ideal. For ground-planted plum trees, dig a circular trench along the drip line every autumn and fill it with decomposed wood chips to improve the soil structure.
Methods for acidification adjustment
In the early stages of yellowing, use chelated iron preparations, diluted 1:1500 with water and sprayed on the underside of leaves. In severe cases of alkalization, combine soil replacement with sulfur powder, adding 100g per cubic meter of soil to reduce the pH value by 0.5 units.
High-quality cultivation soil is the cornerstone of healthy growth for plum blossoms. From the substrate ratio at the initial planting, to the daily pH adjustment, to the regular structural maintenance, each step requires scientific control. It is recommended to replace the soil every early spring, combining it with pruning, and the new soil should be treated with high-temperature disinfection. By following these principles, even beginners can cultivate high-quality plum trees that bloom proudly in the snow.