How to Care for Million Bells
Million Bells, as a神器 for creating a floral explosion on balconies, is beloved by gardening enthusiasts for its bell-shaped flowers and incredibly long blooming period. This article, combined with stunning real-life images, systematically explains the five essential care tips from environmental control to daily management, helping you easily create an endless sea of bell-shaped flowers.
Analysis of Core Care Elements
Temperature Control Strategies
The optimal growth temperature for Million Bells is 15-30℃, and they can overwinter outdoors in the south, while in the north they need to be moved indoors before the temperature drops to 10℃. During the summer high temperatures, ventilation should be enhanced, and plastic bags can be used to cover the pots for insulation during winter low temperatures. Maintaining a day-night temperature difference of about 8℃ can promote bud differentiation.
Scientific Watering Scheme
Use the 'dry-wet' watering method: water thoroughly when the top 2cm of soil is dry, 3-4 times a week in spring and autumn, and twice a day in summer. It is recommended to use a long-spout watering can to slowly pour water along the edge of the pot to avoid rinsing the roots. During the plum rain season, elevate the flower pot to prevent waterlogging.
Light Management Art
Ensure 4-6 hours of scattered light daily, and use shade nets during the midsummer to filter strong sunlight. Regularly rotate the pot to ensure even light exposure, as insufficient light can cause the stems to elongate excessively. This can be improved by using grow lights for 2 hours daily. After pruning, the light intensity should be increased.
Precise Fertilization Techniques
Apply a flower-specific fertilizer (N-P-K=10-30-20) every half month during the growing period, and add potassium dihydrogen phosphate during the bud formation stage. Solid fertilizers should be buried at a depth of 3cm, and liquid fertilizers should be diluted at a ratio of 1:1000. Stop fertilizing in winter, and do not fertilize new plants in pots for the first month.
Advanced Care Guide
Floral Burst Pruning Method
After flowering, retain 3-4 nodes for pruning and combine with pinching to promote the growth of lateral branches. For hanging varieties, keep the main branch at 50cm, and for upright varieties, maintain a height of 30cm. Pruning tools need to be disinfected with alcohol, and the cut surfaces should be treated with wood ash to prevent infection.
Key Points for Disease and Pest Control
Regularly check the backs of leaves to prevent red spider mites and use neem oil diluted in water for spraying. For powdery mildew in the early stage, wipe the leaves with garlic water, and for severe cases, cut off the affected leaves. Aphids can be killed by applying alcohol with a cotton swab.
Million Bells Image Appreciation
How to Care for Million Bells