What are the methods for sowing plum blossom seeds?
As a famous traditional Chinese flower, sowing plum blossom seeds not only allows one to experience the process of life germination but also cultivate uniquely shaped plants. Mastering scientific sowing methods is crucial for improving seedling emergence rates. This article will systematically analyze the practical essentials of sowing plum blossoms from the full sowing process to the germination cycle.
I. Five Core Steps for Sowing Plum Blossoms
1. Choosing the Right Sowing Time
Spring sowing is recommended when the daily average temperature is stable at above 10°C, usually from February to March, as the rising soil temperature is beneficial for root development. In colder northern regions, greenhouse seedlings can be used, while autumn sowing should be completed before frost in October to November, taking advantage of natural low temperatures for seed vernalization.
2. Seed Activation Treatment
For spring sowing, a gradient temperature control germination method should be used: first soak in 40°C warm water for 24 hours, then place in 5°C sand for 7 days to break dormancy. Maintain the sand soil moisture at 60%, regularly turn it to ensure aeration, and sow when 1/3 of the seeds show white.
3. Scientific Substrate Proportioning
The best seedling substrate is prepared with a ratio of decomposed leaf soil: river sand: vermiculite = 5:3:2, with the addition of 5% bone meal to increase calcium content. Before sowing, disinfect with a 0.3% potassium permanganate solution and adjust the pH to a slightly acidic environment of 6.0-6.5.
4. Detailed Sowing Operation
Use the hole sowing method, with each hole spaced 15cm×15cm apart, and the sowing depth being twice the diameter of the seed. After covering with soil, set up a 60% shade net, maintain the substrate moisture content at 40%, and control the temperature between 18-25°C.
5. Systematic Seedling Care
After germination, gradually increase sunlight exposure and apply diluted amino acid water-soluble fertilizer every week. When the seedlings have grown three true leaves, use a bamboo stick for root pruning to promote lateral root development.
II. Germination Cycle and Propagation Comparison
Autumn-sown plum blossoms need to go through a stratification process of 120-150 days and will germinate between March and April the following year, while spring-sown seeds can emerge in 20-30 days after germination treatment. Compared to the grafting method, which takes 2 years to bloom, seedlings need to be cultivated for 4-5 years before they are capable of flowering, but they have stronger resistance to adversity.
After mastering the key points of plum blossom sowing techniques, enthusiasts are recommended to try mass sowing to obtain unique varieties through sexual selection. At the same time, combining asexual propagation methods such as air layering can build a complete plum blossom cultivation system.