Does the old stem of drumstick Dendrobium still bloom?
Among the large family of Orchidaceae plants, Dendrobium drumstick has attracted much attention for its unique form and medicinal value. Whenever spring comes, golden flowers always attract the attention of gardening enthusiasts, but many growers find that old stems in previous years seem to have lost their ability to bloom. What kind of growth mystery lies behind this phenomenon? Analysis of physiological cycle characteristics of old stems After a complete flowering cycle, the nutrients in the old stems of Dendrobium tumulcatum have been basically exhausted. Although the lignified stems still remain green, their top meristem has lost the ability to differentiate into flower buds. Looking at the base of the plant, it can be seen that new buds usually begin to germinate 3-4 weeks after leaf fall. These new stem segments are the main flowering force in the following year. Flower morphological characteristics The golden flowers that bloom from March to May every year can reach 4-6 centimeters in diameter, and the base of the lips has dark markings. Each pedicel can bear 15-25 flowers, and the bracts are arranged in a triangular shape. When they open, they exude an elegant aroma similar to honey and last for about 10-15 days. Light control plan for key elements in flower promotion and maintenance Build a protective net with a shading rate of 40-60% to ensure that scattered light is received for 3-5 hours a day. Shade needs to be strengthened from 10:00 to 15:00 in summer, and direct light time can be appropriately extended in winter. The appearance of yellow spots on the leaves indicates that the light is too strong, and the light is needed if the leaves are dark green. The temperature management strategy maintains the temperature difference between day and night within the range of 8-12℃, which is most conducive to flower bud differentiation. The environment of 25-28℃ during the day and 16-20℃ at night can significantly increase the flowering rate. It is necessary to maintain above 10℃ in winter, and temperature control can be achieved through double insulation films or heating pads. The water and fertilizer ratio plan adopts the principle of "thin fertilizer and frequent application", and liquid fertilizer with a ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium of 3:1:2 is applied every 15 days during the growth period. Use a high-phosphorus formula (N:P:K=1:3:2) during the budding period, combined with potassium dihydrogen phosphate foliar fertilizer once a week. The moisture content of the substrate is controlled at 40-50%, and the stem rot can be avoided by using the dipping basin method to replenish water.
Through systematic environmental control and scientific maintenance techniques, growers can not only observe the brilliant bloom of new stems, but also extend the overall life of the plants. Measures such as regular pruning of aging stem sections and timely replacement of cultivation substrates can keep Dendrobium drumstick strong vitality and bring golden flowers year after year.