Peacock Tree family care environment regulation and key points of daily management
How to care for孔雀木 (Peacock Plant)
Light and Temperature Management
Control of Light Intensity
The peacock plant thrives in a bright, diffused light environment, and can accept direct morning sunlight for 2-3 hours during spring and autumn. In summer, it is necessary to use a shading net to filter 50% of the intense light to prevent leaf tip scorching from midday sun. In winter, it can be moved to a south-facing windowsill, supplemented with grow lights to extend the light exposure to 6-8 hours.
Temperature Range Regulation
Maintain a golden growth temperature of 18-28°C, and keep the temperature above 12°C in winter for overwintering. During the heating season in the north, keep it more than 3 meters away from the radiators. In the south, a plastic film insulation cover can be used for nighttime protection in winter. During high summer temperatures, use atomized humidification to reduce the perceived temperature by 2-3°C.
Water and Nutrient Management
Scientific Watering Plan
Adopt a dual-mode water supply method of 'soaking the pot + misting'. In spring and autumn, soak the pot once a week (water level reaching 1/3 of the pot height), combined with misting the leaf surface twice a day in the morning and evening. In summer, increase to twice a week, and in winter, change to every 10-15 days. Use a TDS pen to ensure the water quality value is less than 100ppm.
Precise Fertilization Techniques
During the growing season (March-October), apply a 20-20-20 nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium water-soluble fertilizer every 15 days, with the concentration controlled at 800-1000 times. In winter, switch to a slow-release fertilizer with calcium and magnesium, sprinkling 5-8 granules per pot. During the new leaf expansion stage, add chelated iron fertilizer to prevent yellow leaves, applying 3 consecutive sprays at 7-day intervals.
Plant Maintenance and Propagation
Pruning and Shaping Methods
Conduct shaping pruning every March, removing inner branches and crossing branches, and retaining 3-4 level branches on the main stem. During the growing season, pinch the tips once a month to promote the germination of lateral buds. Pruning tools need to be disinfected with 75% alcohol, and the wounds should be coated with healing ointment to prevent infection.
Propagation Steps by Cutting
Select semi-woody branches, retain 2-3 compound leaves, and make a 45-degree diagonal cut at the base. Use a matrix of perlite: vermiculite = 3:1, maintaining a constant temperature of 25°C and 80% humidity. Treatment with a rooting agent can increase the survival rate by 30%, and the cuttings can be transplanted after about 45 days of root growth.