Should You Cut the Flowers of Succulents?
When succulents produce thin and long flower spikes, many caregivers are dilemma: should they cut off the flowers? This is not just a matter of aesthetic choice, but also a crucial decision related to the survival of the plant. This article will analyze the wisdom of choosing whether to let succulents flower from three dimensions: nutrient supply, variety characteristics, and maintenance objectives.
The Dilemma of Flowering in Succulents
1. The Battle for Nutrients
The water-storing tissues of succulents are like miniature reservoirs, and the flowering process can consume over 40% of the nutrient reserves in the leaves. Especially for Sempervivum species in the Crassulaceae family, if left to flower naturally, it often results in the shrinkage and wrinkling of the lower leaves. It is recommended to use pruning shears to cut the flower spike close to the stem at an oblique angle, and apply a fungicide to the cut surface to prevent infection.
2. Life-and-Death Variety Characteristics
The characteristic of Sedum succulents dying after flowering is due to their biology of single-seed fruiting. When you notice varieties like Sempervivum and Phoenix shooting, you should completely cut off the flower stem before the bud shows color. Some varieties in the genus Sedum can stimulate the growth of lateral buds by retaining a 3cm stem section.
3. The Art of Balancing Ornamental Value
Succulents like Lithops and Delosperma have flowers that are themselves highlights for observation. For these varieties, applying phosphorus-potassium fertilizer during flowering, under the condition of ensuring 6 hours of sunlight per day, the flowers can continue to bloom for 2-3 weeks. Promptly cutting off the残花 after flowering can reduce nutrient consumption by 30%.
The Four-Step Rule for Scientific Pruning
1. Tool Disinfection
Wipe the pruning shears with alcohol wipes to prevent infection at the cut. For flower stems with a diameter greater than 5mm, it is recommended to use a special rose剪 to avoid crushing injuries.
2. Cutting Positioning
Make a 45° diagonal cut at the base of the flower spike, leaving a 1cm stub for healing. Be careful to avoid new lateral buds, and especially protect the central growth point in Agave species.
3. Postoperative Care
Place the plant in a well-ventilated and diffused light area for 3 days after pruning, and resume normal management after the cut heals. You can spray diluted HB-101 vitality formula to promote recovery.
4. Utilizing the Remaining Flowers
Healthy flower spikes can be cultured in water for 2-3 weeks or used for cross-pollination. The cutting survival rate of Sedum species is over 60%.
Wise pruning decisions need to consider the variety characteristics, plant status, and maintenance objectives. Mastering the technique of supplementing fertilizer after flowering (it is recommended to use a slow-release fertilizer with N-P-K=5-10-5), regularly rotating the pot to ensure even lighting, can help find the best balance between the continuation of life and aesthetic enjoyment.