Methods and Precautions for Growing Blood Grass
Among numerous ornamental plants, blood grass is favored for its unique medicinal value and elegant flower posture. This seemingly ordinary little flower hides many details that are often overlooked by gardening enthusiasts. What are the key points to transform blood grass from a lush green plant into a colorful landscape? Today, we will delve into this practical and interesting topic.
Mastering Three Growth Stages
Water and Light Management in the Seedling Stage
Recently sown blood grass seedlings require careful nurturing. It is recommended to use the immersion method to keep the substrate moist. Place the seedling trays on a window sill with ample diffused light, and rotate the pots daily to ensure even exposure to light. Controlling the temperature between 18-22°C is most conducive to root development, and a thermometer can be used to monitor environmental data in real-time.
Nutrient Control in the Growth Stage
When the plant has four true leaves, start applying a balanced water-soluble fertilizer diluted 2000 times. Blood grass requires an increased demand for trace elements at this stage, and foliar fertilizers containing calcium and magnesium can be supplemented monthly. Pay attention to changes in leaf color; deep green indicates sufficient nutrition, while light yellow suggests the need to adjust the fertilization plan.
Optimizing the Environment During Flowering
During the budding stage, increase the frequency of phosphorus and potassium fertilizers to once a week, while ensuring at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Special attention should be paid to ventilation at this time, and a circulating fan can be used to create air movement, preventing diseases and promoting sturdy flower stems. Reducing the temperature to about 15°C at night can extend the flowering period by 2-3 weeks.
Avoiding Five Common Care Mistakes
The Trap of Over-Controlled Watering
Many gardeners reduce watering because they believe blood grass is drought-tolerant. However, during the growing season, it is necessary to keep the substrate slightly moist. It is recommended to use the finger test: insert the index finger into the soil 2 cm deep, and water immediately when it feels dry. In summer, spray water twice, once in the morning and once in the evening, to increase air humidity.
The Dangers of Blind Fertilization
Blood grass is highly sensitive to fertilizer concentration, and excessive fertilization can lead to salt buildup. It is recommended to rinse the substrate with water the day after each fertilization and use an EC pen to measure soil conductivity, maintaining it between 1.2-1.8mS/cm. During the winter dormancy period, fertilization should be completely stopped to avoid root burn.
The Science of Light Control
Although blood grass requires ample sunlight, strong midday sunlight in summer can cause leaves to curl. A sunshade net with 30% opacity can be used, or an adjustable blinds can be used. Observe the plant's form: flat leaves indicate suitable lighting, while drooping leaves require shading.