How to Cultivate Firecracker Flowers
Living knowledge series, about how to cultivate firecracker flowers and the topics of caring for and managing ornamental plants, let's learn about it together.
Also known as Chinese trumpet vine, firecracker flowers have bright orange-red blossoms that resemble firecrackers and are very beautiful. To cultivate good firecracker flowers, you need soil rich in humus and with good drainage; when newly planted, they should be shaded, and once they recover, they require adequate light and temperature; watering depends on soil moisture; fertilize every two weeks during the growing season; and regular pruning is necessary. Let's discuss this in detail below.
1. Soil
Firecracker flowers do not have high requirements for soil, as long as the soil used is rich in humus and has good drainage.
2. Light
Firecracker flowers should be shaded when newly planted, and only after they recover can they be fully exposed to sunlight. They enjoy sunlight and thrive in a well-lit, warm, and ventilated environment. However, during the intense summer sun, they should be protected from direct exposure to avoid wilting of flowers and leaves; in winter, with weaker light, it is advisable to increase the intensity and duration of sunlight.
3. Watering
Watering firecracker flowers depends on soil moisture. If the soil is obviously dry and hard, it is necessary to supplement water promptly. Be careful not to overwater, causing waterlogging in the potting mix, which can lead to root rot and is not conducive to growth. In hot summer weather, water evaporates easily, so the watering frequency should be increased appropriately to ensure the right amount of moisture in the potting mix.
4. Fertilization
Fertilization of firecracker flowers depends on the season. During the growing season, a dilute liquid fertilizer should be applied every two weeks; during the flowering period, one to two applications of phosphorus and potassium fertilizers are needed, and after flowering, a nitrogen fertilizer should be applied. In the overwintering season, growth is slow, and watering should be reduced and fertilization stopped.
5. Pruning
To enhance the ornamental value of firecracker flowers, regular pruning is necessary to remove diseased and weak branches, reducing nutrient consumption. When they reach a certain height, the tops can be pinched back to promote lateral growth.
6. Propagation
Firecracker flowers are usually propagated by cuttings in spring. Select sturdy branches about 10 centimeters long with buds. The substrate should be loose and breathable with some fertility. Insert the cuttings into the prepared substrate, about 3 to 4 centimeters deep. Regular care should ensure the substrate remains moist and the plants are kept in a ventilated environment with scattered light.
7. Precautions
Shading
During cultivation, it is necessary to prune and shape the plants promptly. When they reach a certain height, a trellis is needed for them to climb. Regularly remove old, weak, and diseased branches to avoid nutrient consumption.
Diseases and Pests
Leaf spot and powdery mildew often occur during cultivation and can be treated with carbendazim. If there are whiteflies and scale insects, they can be sprayed with dimethoate emulsion.
The above is a detailed explanation of how to cultivate firecracker flowers and the care and management of firecracker flowers, for everyone's reference and suggestions!