When is the best month to repot azaleas
As one of the famous traditional flowers in China, the repotting operation of azaleas directly affects the plant's subsequent growth. Mastering the correct timing and method can not only avoid root damage but also stimulate plant growth. This article will systematically analyze the scientific repotting techniques for azaleas from time selection, operation steps to maintenance details.
I. The Best Time for Azalea Repotting
1. The Golden Window After Flowering
May to June, after the flowers have completely wilted, is the best time for repotting. At this time, the plants are in a moderate growth phase, the rate of metabolism slows down, and the root damage caused by repotting recovers faster. Experimental data show that the survival rate of repotting at this stage can reach over 95%.
2. Controlling Environmental Temperature
It is recommended to operate on overcast days with a stable daytime temperature of 18-25°C, avoiding high temperatures and direct sunlight to prevent plant dehydration. Stop watering 3 days before repotting to keep the soil slightly dry, which is more conducive to pot removal.
II. Detailed Explanation of Professional Repotting Operations
1. Preparing Tools for Repotting
A disinfected gardening铲, pruning shears, and carbendazim solution are needed. It is recommended to use ceramic or purple sand pots, and new substrates should be mixed according to the ratio of decomposed leaf soil: pine needle soil: perlite = 5:3:2.
2. Steps for Dividing Plants
(1) Loosen the soil along the pot wall and invert to remove the pot (2) Rinse the roots with clean water until the root system is exposed (3) Retain the main roots 15cm and trim the fibrous roots (4) Apply charcoal powder to the cut surface to sterilize (5) Retain 3-5 main branches when dividing (6) Layer the soil and compact it when planting.
III. Key Post-Repotting Maintenance Points
1. Pruning Protection Mechanism
Immediately after repotting, cut off 1/3 of the leaves to reduce water evaporation. Use transparent plastic bags to cover the plants to maintain humidity, ventilate for 2 hours a day, and continue for 7-10 days until new buds sprout.
2. Water Management Techniques
The扎根 water should be watered thoroughly with a carbendazim solution, then keep the substrate moist but without waterlogging. Using the immersion pot method to replenish water is safer, and water again when the surface of the potting soil turns white.
Scientific repotting can give the azalea roots a new growing space. It is recommended to repot every 2-3 years. Avoid fertilizing within 30 days after repotting. After the new leaves are fully unfolded, apply potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution to promote bud differentiation. Mastering these key technologies can make the azaleas thrive even more vigorously after repotting.