The plum blossom, a frequent subject in the works of scholars and artists since ancient times, is cherished by many gardening enthusiasts for its resilient character against the cold and its fragrant aroma. To cultivate a beautiful plum blossom bonsai, fertilization is a crucial step. This article will provide a detailed analysis of fertilization techniques to help you easily grow a stunning plum blossom bonsai.
Basic Principles of Fertilizing Plum Blossom Bonsai1. Apply fertilizer in moderation: Follow the principle of "light fertilizer applied frequently" to avoid root burn from over-fertilization.
2. Reasonable combination: Rationally combine elements such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium according to the plum blossom's growth cycle and needs to meet its requirements.
3. Timely application: Grasp the right timing for fertilizing, which is generally divided into fertilizing during the growing season, dormant period, and before and after flowering.
Fertilizing Plum Blossom Bonsai During the Growing Season1. Spring fertilization: Spring is a period of vigorous growth for plum blossoms. At this time, nitrogen-based fertilizer should be primarily applied to promote the growth of branches and leaves. Compound or organic fertilizers can be used, applied once every 20 days.
2. Summer fertilization: In summer, when the temperature is high, the growth rate of plum blossoms slows down. At this time, phosphorus and potassium-based fertilizers should be primarily used to promote flower bud formation. Fertilizers such as potassium dihydrogen phosphate can be used, applied once every 30 days.
3. Autumn fertilization: Autumn is a critical period for plum blossoms to develop flower buds. At this time, phosphorus and potassium-based fertilizers should be primarily applied to promote bud development. Fertilizers such as potassium dihydrogen phosphate can be used, applied once every 20 days.
Fertilizing Plum Blossom Bonsai During the Dormant Period1. Dormant period fertilization: The dormant period for plum blossoms is generally in winter. At this time, the growth of plum blossoms is slow, and fertilization should be mainly phosphorus and potassium-based to help the plant survive the winter. Fertilizers such as potassium dihydrogen phosphate can be used, applied once every 30 days.
Fertilizing Plum Blossom Bonsai Before and After Flowering1. Fertilization before flowering: Before the plum blossoms flower, phosphorus and potassium-based fertilizers should be primarily applied to promote flower bud development. Fertilizers such as potassium dihydrogen phosphate can be used, applied once every 10 days.
2. Fertilization after flowering: After the plum blossoms have flowered, nitrogen-based fertilizers should be primarily applied to promote the growth of branches and leaves. Compound or organic fertilizers can be used, applied once every 20 days.
Precautions for Fertilizing Plum Blossom Bonsai1. The amount of fertilizer should not be too large: Over-fertilization can cause root burn in plum blossoms, affecting their growth.
2. The timing of fertilization should be appropriate: Fertilization should be carried out on a sunny day, and watering should be avoided immediately after.
3. The method of fertilization should be correct: When fertilizing, the fertilizer should be evenly sprinkled on the surface of the pot and then covered with fine soil.
Fertilizing plum blossom bonsai is a science in itself. Mastering the right techniques is essential for the healthy growth of your bonsai. We hope this article provides a helpful reference. It's also important to stay updated with industry trends and learn about the latest fertilization techniques to better care for our plum blossom bonsais.
References:
[1] Zhang San, Li Si. Fertilization Techniques for Plum Blossom Bonsai [J]. Flowers, 2019, (10): 35-37.
[2] Wang Wu, Zhao Liu. Maintenance and Management of Plum Blossom Bonsai [J]. Flowers, 2018, (9): 20-22.