The Cultivation Method and Precautions for Mixed Chrysanthemum
As an artistic treasure among the Compositae family, mixed chrysanthemum is deeply favored by horticulture enthusiasts for its colorful petals and unique shape. This ornamental chrysanthemum, which achieves multicolored characteristics through grafting technology, requires specific cultivation methods to display its best condition. This article will systematically explain the key points of care from soil mixing to pest and disease control.
Four Basic Care Elements
Soil Mixing and Disinfection
Use a slightly acidic matrix made of humus soil and river sand in a 3:1 ratio, and subject it to high-temperature steam sterilization before planting. Add bone meal to the soil every two years when changing pots to enhance soil fertility, and keep the pH value between 6.0-6.5.
Scientific Watering Method
Using the immersion pot method to replenish water is more beneficial for root absorption. Water twice a day, morning and evening, in summer, with the water temperature consistent with the room temperature. In winter, water at noon to keep the potting soil slightly moist without积水, and check the moisture by inserting a bamboo skewer.
Controlling Light Time
The growth period requires more than 12 hours of direct sunlight daily, and using black shading cloth for short-day treatment can advance the blooming period. In the middle of summer, shade 30% to prevent leaf scorching.
Flowering Period Nutrient Management
Apply diluted organic liquid fertilizer (500 times) every week during the bud formation period, alternating between fish intestine water and soybean cake fertilizer. Stop applying nitrogen fertilizer when the flower buds show color and switch to spraying the leaves with potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution.
Grafting and Pruning Techniques
Best Grafting Time
Perform cleft grafting from late June to early July, using white wormwood with a diameter of 0.8 cm as the rootstock. Retain 2-3 buds on the scion, wrap the grafting interface with glutinous rice paper to increase survival rate, and maintain an air humidity of over 80% after grafting.
Secrets to Shaping Pruning
The Cultivation Method and Precautions for Mixed Chrysanthemum
Pinch the top for the first time when the main stem reaches 15 cm, and repeatedly pinch the side branches, leaving 3 pairs of true leaves. Conduct shaping pruning 30 days before flowering, using the spiral defoliation method to enhance ventilation and light.
Key Points for Pest and Disease Control
Aphid Eradication Plan
At the initial stage, spray tobacco stem浸泡液 for 3 consecutive days, and when severe, dilute pymetrozine at a ratio of 1:1500, focusing on the treatment of aphid eggs on the leaf back.
Brown Spot Disease Identification and Treatment
When concentric ring-shaped lesions appear on the leaves, immediately remove the infected tissue. Alternate the use of mancozeb and tebuconazole, spraying once a week until symptoms disappear.
Common Daily Care Mistakes
Analysis of Rain Damage
Continuous rainy weather can lead to root rot, so it's necessary to set up a rain shelter during the rainy season. After the rain, promptly pour out the accumulated water in the tray and sprinkle wood ash on the potting soil to adjust the moisture.
Taboos for Potted Plant Placement
Avoid placing near air conditioner outlets or radiators, as excessive temperature differences can cause bud drop. When rotating the pot, turn it 45 degrees each time to ensure symmetrical growth of the plant.
Through systematic care and management, mixed chrysanthemum can bloom multiple times a year. The key is to grasp the timing of grafting, accurately control watering and fertilizing, and establish a pest and disease prevention system. It is recommended to keep a maintenance log, recording data from each pruning and fertilizing session to gradually master the plant's growth patterns and create a colorful chrysanthemum landscape of your own.