What to do if the Tiger Skin Orchid does not grow or sprout new buds
As a star variety in the indoor green plant world, the Tiger Skin Orchid is highly favored for its unique patterned leaves. However, many plant enthusiasts find that their Tiger Skin Orchid remains stagnant for a long time, neither growing taller nor sprouting new buds. This article will systematically analyze six key elements of care to help you break the stagnant seedling dilemma.
One, Key Techniques for Root Care
1.1 Scientific Water Control to Prevent Root Rot
The Tiger Skin Orchid originally grows in arid semi-desert areas, and its succulent roots have a very strong water storage capacity. It is recommended to water once every 20-25 days in spring and autumn, shorten to 15 days in summer, and extend to 30-40 days in winter. The bamboo stake test can be used to determine: insert the bamboo stake 2/3 into the potting soil, and if it comes out without moisture, you can water.
1.2 Emergency Root Rot Treatment Plan
When the plant shows soft base and leaf wrinkles, it is necessary to immediately remove the pot for inspection. Cut off the black rot roots and soak in a carbendazim solution for 30 minutes, then dry in the sun for 2 days before repotting with moist soil. During the recovery period, maintain an ambient temperature of 18-25°C.
Two, Optimization Strategies for Growth Space
2.1 Golden Rule for Pot Selection
It is recommended to choose a wide and shallow pot with a diameter 5-8 cm larger than the plant's crown, with a red pottery pot being the best material. A deep pot can lead to the lower part of the soil being moist for a long time, so it is recommended to match with a ratio of "pot height : plant height = 1 : 3".
2.2 Timing for Potting Operation
The best potting period is March to April every year, and stop watering 7 days before the operation. Place a 3cm layer of ceramsite at the bottom of the new pot, fill in the mixed soil (peat: perlite: river sand = 5:3:2) to 1/3 of the pot height, and plant the plant, then tap the pot wall lightly to make the roots spread out.
Three, Soil Management System
3.1 Substrate Improvement Plan
Compact soil can block oxygen exchange, so it is recommended to add 20% volcanic rock particles every spring. For plants that have not been repotted for more than a year, you can sprinkle 2cm of earthworm dung on the surface and combine it with monthly shallow cultivation.
3.2 Nutrient Supply Cycle
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium every 45 days during the growing season, and stop fertilizing in winter. During the sprouting period, you can spray the leaves with diluted 2000 times芸苔素内酯, and combine it with turning the pot 15° weekly to ensure even light exposure.
By systematically adjusting the care methods, noticeable improvements can usually be seen in 2-3 months. It is recommended to establish a care log to record data such as watering time and the number of new buds, and combine it with regular observation of the leaf stiffness (ideal angle 60-75°) to gradually master the growth rhythm of the Tiger Skin Orchid. When the plant recovers vitality, you can try to propagate by division to get more seedlings.