How to Make "Tiger Head Plumeria" Bloom Easily
As a species within the succulent family that is highly ornamental when blooming, "Tiger Head Plumeria" is loved for its thick, waxy leaves and flowers that resemble tiger heads. To achieve annual abundant blooming, it is necessary to accurately grasp the balance between light, temperature and humidity, and nutritional supply. This article will systematically sort out the details of maintenance through five dimensions.
Substrate Ratio and Root Management
Ideal Substrate Formula
Use a golden ratio of Perlite: Peat Soil: Vermiculite = 4:3:3, mixed with 5% coal slag particles to enhance drainage. The coal slag should be sieved to remove powder and prevent compaction from affecting aeration. When repotting every year, retain 1/3 of the heart-protecting soil to reduce root damage.
Pot Selection Tips
It is recommended to use red clay pots or rough clay pots, as their microporous structure can accelerate moisture evaporation. Place a 3cm thick layer of陶粒 (陶粒 means ceramsite) at the bottom of the pot to prevent waterlogging and root rot. A pot with a diameter 5cm smaller than the canopy is most suitable, as an overly large pot can lead to long-term soil moisture.
Light Control Strategies
Four-Season Light Plan
In spring and autumn, receive 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, and during summer, from 10:00 to 15:00, use a shade net to filter 50% of the light. In winter, it can be maintained under full sunlight, supplemented with grow lights to achieve a total of 8 hours of daily light. Rotate the pot frequently to maintain even light exposure.
Water Management Cycle
Moisture Cycle Control
In the spring germination period, keep the substrate slightly moist (30% water content), use the immersion method to water during the summer growth period, and completely stop watering in the winter dormancy period. The bamboo skewer method can be used daily: insert it into the soil for 2 minutes, and water when no soil particles stick to it.
Flowering Promotion and Control Techniques
Vernalization Key Points
Maintain a low temperature of 5-10°C for 45 days from December to February of the following year, with a day-night temperature difference of 8°C or more. Gradually increase the temperature to 15°C in early March, and apply phosphorus-potassium fertilizer (diluted 1000 times) every 10 days to stimulate flower bud differentiation.
Flower Bud Development Management
When the flower buds swell to the size of soybeans, switch to using a foliar spray of monopotassium phosphate (0.2% concentration) weekly. After the buds appear, maintain good air circulation to prevent moldy flower buds caused by rain. Stop fertilizing during the flowering period and moderately control water to extend the viewing period.
By precisely controlling the three core elements of substrate structure, light intensity, and water supply, combined with scientific vernalization treatment and nutritional management, "Tiger Head Plumeria" can bloom 2-3 times a year. It is recommended to regularly check the center of the leaves, promptly remove accumulated water to prevent rotting, and look forward to flower enthusiasts sharing beautiful blooming pictures in the comments section.