How to Enlarge the Corm of Hippeastrum
Hippeastrum has become a new favorite in gardening with its beautiful flowers, and the large corm is the key to the plant's health and continuous flowering. This article will systematically analyze the five core techniques to enlarge the corm of Hippeastrum, from soil improvement to detailed maintenance.
One: Optimization Strategy for Soil Mixture Ratio
Scientific Substrate Mixture Ratio
Use a 1:1 mixture of decomposed leaf soil and red jade soil as the substrate, with the requirement that the humus content should reach 35% or more to ensure double balance of root respiration and nutrient supply. Change the potting soil every two years to prevent salt accumulation.
Two: Precise Control of Light Cycle
Seasonal Light Management
Keep full sunlight for 8 hours during spring and autumn, shade from 10:00 to 15:00 during summer, and extend supplementary lighting to 10 hours in winter. Maintain the light intensity between 15000-30000 lux.
Three: Synergistic Water and Fertilizer Supply Scheme
Intelligent Watering Mode
Apply the "three-finger detection method": insert the index finger into the second knuckle of the soil, and water thoroughly when dry. Use a ceramic pot to keep the air humidity stable at 60%-70%.
Accurate Nutrient Supply
Apply NPK 12-24-12 slow-release fertilizer during the germination period and switch to high-potassium fertilizer during the corm expansion period. Supplement with seaweed essence liquid every month to promote cell division in the corm.
Four: Scientific Management of Plant Metabolism
Leaf Pruning Rules
Retain 6-8 functional leaves and promptly remove the bottom yellow leaves. Cut the flower stem 1/3 after flowering to promote nutrient backflow. Implement "haircut pruning" during the dormant period to stimulate corm dormancy.
Temperature Control Technology
Maintain a day-night temperature difference of 8-10°C, with the night temperature not lower than 15°C. Use misting to cool during the high-temperature period in summer to prevent the interruption of corm dormancy.
By implementing the above systematic maintenance measures, combined with regular measurement of corm circumference (it is recommended to record monthly), you can ensure that the annual growth rate of Hippeastrum corms reaches 15%-20%. Mastering the three core elements of "substrate aeration," "light and temperature balance," and "nutrient progression" can result in high-quality corms the size of a fist.