The Cultivation Method and Precautions of Yarrow (Achillea)
In courtyard plants, yarrow is highly favored for its feathery leaves and star-shaped flowers. This herb, which is both medicinal and edible, may appear delicate, but it possesses a strong vitality. Mastering the correct cultivation methods will ensure that your yarrow remains in the best condition from seedling to flowering stage.
Three Essential Elements for the Growth Environment of Yarrow
Optimal Temperature and Light Ratio
Yarrow thrives best in a temperate climate with temperatures ranging from 5-25°C, and its cold resistance can withstand low temperatures of -10°C. In late spring and early summer, it is necessary to set up a sunshade net to prevent the leaves from being scorched by intense sunlight at noon, ensuring 4-6 hours of scattered light daily.
Key Parameters for Substrate Ratio
Use a mixture of sandy loam and humus soil in a ratio of 3:2, maintaining a pH value between 6.0-7.5. Add perlite every quarter to improve drainage, and sterilize the soil with carbendazim before planting to prevent diseases.
Advanced Techniques for Year-Round Maintenance
Overwintering Management Tips
In winter, keep the substrate slightly moist and use the pot-in-pot method to insulate. On sunny days, move the plant to a south-facing windowsill and supplement with phosphorus and potassium fertilizer once a month to enhance cold resistance.
Summer Protection Plan
Set up a rain shelter during the plum rain season and raise the pot bottom by 5cm to enhance ventilation. Spray to cool down during high-temperature periods and alternate the use of mancozeb and pyraclostrobin weekly to prevent fungal infections.
Strategies for Dealing with Common Issues
Root Health Monitoring
Regularly check the moisture of the potting soil and immediately loosen the soil if it becomes compacted. For plants with rotting roots, prune the decayed roots, soak in potassium permanganate, then repot with new soil, and use root promoting powder to encourage new root growth.
The Cultivation Method and Precautions of Yarrow (Achillea)
Leaf Abnormality Diagnosis
Burnt leaf edges are often caused by excessive fertilization and should be immediately flushed with water to dilute. Overall yellowing requires checking the drainage system and testing the soil EC value; if it exceeds 1.5mS/cm, the substrate should be replaced.
Through scientific environmental control and meticulous management, yarrow can not only become a beautiful landscape on the balcony, but its dried flower branches can also be used to make natural insect repellent sachets. Regular pruning promotes branching, and the application of organic fertilizer can keep the plant compact, achieving both ornamental and practical dual values.