How to Care for Portulaca Tree to Make It Bloom
The Portulaca tree is favored for its plump leaves and unique shape, but many gardening enthusiasts find that their plants never bloom. In fact, by mastering key techniques such as temperature difference control and light management, one can easily unlock the beautiful scene of a blooming tree. This article provides a detailed explanation of flower-promoting secrets from four dimensions.
Light Management: Photosynthesis and Energy Accumulation
Seasonal Light Adjustment
In spring and autumn, it is recommended to provide full sunlight care, ensuring 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. In winter, the plant can be exposed to soft light throughout the day, and in northern regions, supplementary lights should be used.
Summer Sun Protection Techniques
From June to August, a 50% shade net should be set up to prevent the midday strong light from burning the leaves. In the early morning and at dusk, the shade can be removed to receive oblique light.
Temperature Difference Control: Key to Nutrient Accumulation
Day and Night Temperature Difference Control
In spring and autumn, maintaining a 10-15°C temperature difference is best, with daytime temperatures of 25-28°C and nighttime temperatures of 15-18°C. This can be achieved by opening windows at night and closing greenhouses during the day.
Seasonal Temperature Difference Utilization
In winter, keep the environment above 5°C for a month of dormancy, and then gradually increase the temperature to above 20°C in the spring, which can effectively stimulate bud differentiation.
Water Management: Dry and Wet Cycle Flower-Promoting Method
Moisture Control Watering Method
Water thoroughly when the top 3cm of potting soil is dry, and use a bamboo stake test for more accuracy. During the bud differentiation period, water control can be slightly increased for 20 days.
Rainy Season Protection Measures
During the plum rain season, it is recommended to set up a rain shelter and use ceramic stones as pot pads to enhance drainage, preventing waterlogging that can cause root rot.
Nutrient Supply: Precise Fertilization Plan
Growing Season Fertilization
From April to June, water with diluted, matured soybean cake fertilizer (1000 times dilution) every 15 days, combined with 0.1% potassium dihydrogen phosphate foliar spray.
Bud Formation Top Dressing
In the early stage of bud formation, add bone meal and wood ash, mixed with potting soil at a ratio of 1:20, to supplement phosphorus and potassium elements and promote bud development.
Through continuous 3-month management of light, water, temperature, and fertilizer, combined with spring pruning of long branches, the Portulaca tree usually blooms with light yellow star-shaped flowers in the second year of care. Remember to remove the spent flowers in time after blooming, supplement with slow-release fertilizer to restore tree vigor, and prepare for the next year's reblooming.