How to Care for a Newly Purchased Beauty Plum
Beginner gardeners often cause their newly acquired Beauty Plums to wilt due to improper care. This ornamental plant, belonging to the Rosaceae family and the plum genus, possesses both the elegance of plum blossoms and the characteristics of red-leafed plums. This article will systematically analyze the scientific care methods for Beauty Plums after transplantation, from soil improvement to daily management.
Techniques for Soil Improvement
Substrate Mixing Scheme
While the growing medium that comes with the original pot can maintain basic growth, it is recommended to mix in 30% pine needle soil and 20% perlite to improve the structure. A pH value between 5.5-6.5 is more beneficial for root development, and the acidity or alkalinity can be adjusted by adding sulfur powder.
Key Points for Light Management
Control of Light Intensity
In spring and autumn, maintain 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily, and in summer, a 50% shade net should be set up for protection. New leaves that appear purplish-red indicate sufficient light, and if they turn green, additional lighting time is needed.
Water and Fertilizer Regulation Strategies
Determination of Watering Cycle
Use the bamboo stake method: insert the bamboo stake 2/3 into the potting soil and check twice a week, on Tuesdays and Fridays. When only the tip of the bamboo stake is slightly moist, slowly water around the edge of the pot, taking care to avoid water accumulating in the leaf heart.
Specifications for Fertilizer Application
Begin top-dressing 30 days after transplanting with a slow-release fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-15-10. Apply 5g of granular fertilizer per 15cm pot diameter, buried 5cm away from the main stem, and complement with EM bacterial solution once a month to enhance fertilizer efficiency.
By following the above systematic care plan, the survival rate of newly purchased Beauty Plums can be increased to over 90%. It is recommended to observe the growth rate of new shoots; under normal conditions, 3-5cm of new branches should emerge monthly. If leaf curling occurs, promptly check the soil EC value (which should be maintained at 1.2-1.8mS/cm) and scientifically adjust the care strategy.