Cultivation methods and precautions for azaleas
Core introduction to the article: This article covers the cultivation methods and precautions for azaleas, as well as related content on mastering the green plant maintenance skills for azaleas. Next, the editor will introduce to the netizens.
Container-grown azaleas: Pay attention to 4 details, otherwise they will turn yellow, wilt, and be difficult to keep alive
Azaleas, also known as rhododendron, have lush green leaves and beautiful flowers, making them highly ornamental and very popular among flower enthusiasts. They are even praised as the "Queen of Flowers in the West." So, how can one successfully cultivate beautiful azaleas at home?
Azaleas prefer a moist and cool environment, and the cultivation soil should be slightly acidic. Daily maintenance should pay attention to the concentration of fertilization, applying "thin and frequent" fertilization, placing them in a semi-shaded environment, and avoiding strong sunlight exposure during the summer.
I. Requirements for planting soil
The roots of azaleas are fine, and the growth soil is quite strict. It requires fertile, loose, and well-ventilated soil with a pH value between 4.5 and 6. A mixture of pine needle soil, decomposed leaf soil, and mountain soil in a ratio of 2:2:6 can be used to create a comprehensive nutrient-rich, loose, and breathable growing medium that promotes healthy growth.
II. Reasonable watering
Azaleas like moist soil and do not tolerate drought. The watering frequency varies at different growth stages. During hot and dry summers, it is necessary to frequently spray water on the leaves to increase humidity. Generally, during the plant's vigorous growth period and the bud formation stage, the watering amount should be increased to ensure sufficient water supply for growth. If the potting soil lacks water during the growing period, it is easy to cause leaf wilt and yellowing, failure of new leaves to unfold, and the plant to stop growing. In severe cases, all leaves can turn yellow and wither.
Cultivation methods and precautions for azaleas
If there is a lack of water during the flowering period, it can easily cause the flowers to fall, fade in color, and shorten the blooming period. Similarly, if excessive watering occurs daily, with the potting soil being too moist or waterlogged for a long time, it can also lead to yellowing leaves, falling leaves, and root rot. If the azaleas exhibit these conditions, it is necessary to promptly move the potted azaleas to a well-ventilated environment and control the watering amount. For severe yellowing due to excessive watering, it is necessary to repot and change the soil.
III. Fertilizing to increase nutrients
Azaleas require a high demand for water and fertilizer, and the type of fertilizer needed varies at different growth stages. In spring, which is the growing season for azaleas, fertilization should focus on nitrogenous fertilizers to promote the growth of branches and leaves. At this time, some decomposed cake fertilizer or manure can be applied in the pot, but make sure not to apply raw, undecomposed fertilizers.
In July and August, it is usually the period for azalea flower bud differentiation, and phosphorus fertilizers should be increased. Some bone meal or potassium dihydrogen phosphate can be applied to promote bud differentiation and increase the number of flowers. After each fertilization, it is necessary to water thoroughly to dilute the fertilizer concentration and prevent fertilizer burn to the azalea roots. Loosening the soil also increases aeration, which is more beneficial for the healthy growth of the plant.