What should I do if the azalea leaves are dry and fall off when touched?
Dry and falling off of rhododendron leaves is a common problem in horticulture maintenance, which not only affects the ornamental value, but may also threaten the health of the plant. This paper starts from the three dimensions of environmental regulation, water management, and root restoration, combined with specific symptoms, systematically analyzes the causes and targeted solutions of withered leaves. 1. Environmental control strategies 1.1 Light intensity adjustment During the late spring to early autumn, it is recommended to use a 50%-70% sunshade net to filter strong light, or move to the east-facing sill to receive morning light. If brown sunspots are found on the leaves, shade measures need to be taken immediately. 1.2 In addition to replenishing water at the roots, the humidity balance plan uses an atomized spray can to form water mist around the plants every morning and evening to keep the air humidity within the range of 60%-75%. A humidifying water pan can be placed next to the flower pot during winter heating. 2. Water management skills 2.1 The scientific water replenishment process adopts the "dipping basin method" to replenish water: place the flower pot in a water container and take it out immediately when the soil surface is moist. This method can avoid pouring half of water. Check soil moisture every 3 days in spring and autumn. 2.2 Emergency drainage measures When water accumulation is serious, remove the basin for inspection. Use disinfection scissors to prune the black roots and retain healthy white roots. After treatment, soak it in 0.1% potassium permanganate solution for 20 minutes, and replace it with a new substrate with 30% perlite. 3. Soil system maintenance 3.1 pH control Use pH test paper to test the soil every month. When the value is>7, it can be watered with a ferrous sulfate solution diluted 200 times. During soil replacement, the acidic substrate was prepared according to the ratio of peat soil: pine needle soil: river sand =5:3:2. 3.2 The best time for soil change in annual soil change regulations is before flower buds sprout in early spring, and 1/3 of the soil is reserved to reduce stress. The diameter of the new pot is 3-5cm larger than that of the original pot. After soil change, place it in a cool place to slow down for two weeks.
By systematically implementing the three strategies of light regulation, precise water management, and regular soil maintenance, and coordinating with seasonal maintenance adjustments, the problem of dryness and falling off of rhododendron leaves can be effectively solved. It is recommended to establish a maintenance log to record temperature and humidity changes and plant responses, and gradually improve personalized maintenance plans.