Why doesn't the long-lived flower bloom? Techniques for promoting blooming in long-lived flowers.

Why Don't Duranta Flowers BloomAs a popular ornamental flower during the winter and spring seasons, Duranta is loved for its bright colors and super long blooming period. However, many flower enthusiasts find that their Duranta plants are not blooming, but the branches and leaves are very lush. This article will analyze the key factors affecting Duranta blooming from four dimensions: light, nutrients, temperature, and pruning.I. Improper Light Management Affects Bud Differentiation1.1 Light Intensity and Duration RequirementsDuranta is a typical short-day plant that requires at least 5 hours of diffused light daily. In autumn and winter, it is recommended to place it on a south-facing windowsill and rotate the pot to ensure even light exposure from all angles. In summer, avoid direct sunlight at noon and use a shading net to filter 30% of the light intensity.1.2 Techniques for Light Period RegulationStarting from September, perform short-day treatment, maintaining a dark period of over 14 hours daily. Using a black plastic bag to control light can effectively promote bud formation after 6 weeks of continuous treatment.II. Imbalanced Nutrient Supply Hinders Blooming2.1 Fertilizer Ratio SelectionUse a balanced nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium fertilizer (20-20-20) during the growing period and switch to a high-phosphorus-potassium fertilizer (10-30-20) during the bud formation period. Avoid using a single nitrogen fertilizer that causes excessive growth of branches and leaves, and add 0.1% potassium dihydrogen phosphate to the water-soluble fertilizer every 7-10 days.2.2 Fertilization TimingStart top-dressing at the beginning of the spring sprouting period and increase phosphorus and potassium fertilizers in autumn. Stop fertilizing after blooming and resume when new buds sprout.III. Temperature Fluctuations Suppress Bud DevelopmentThe optimal growth temperature is between 15-25°C, with a temperature difference controlled within 8°C. Move the plant indoors before the first frost, maintaining a nighttime temperature above 12°C. In winter heating environments, humidity should be increased to maintain 50%-60% air humidity.IV. Improper Pruning Consumes Flowering Energy4.1 Pruning During the Growing PeriodPerform pinching in May-June, leaving 3 pairs of leaves to promote branching. Remove the basal old leaves in time to maintain ventilation and light penetration in the plant.4.2 Pruning After BloomingMake a flat cut 2 cm below the spent flower, and combined with top-dressing, it can promote secondary blooming. Pruning tools need to be disinfected with alcohol to avoid disease infection.By precisely controlling the light cycle, scientifically supplementing phosphorus and potassium fertilizers, maintaining suitable temperature and humidity, and regularly pruning and shaping, most of the issues with Duranta not blooming can be solved. It is recommended to observe the plant's condition regularly and start maintenance adjustments 60 days before the blooming period to achieve the ornamental effect of full branches of flowers.