How to raise heather in spring
As a star variety among evergreen shrubs, heather is deeply loved by horticulture enthusiasts for its unique ornamental nature and strong adaptability. Spring is a critical period for the growth of heather. Scientific and reasonable maintenance can not only promote the germination of new buds, but also prevent pests and diseases, laying a solid foundation for year-round growth. This article will systematically analyze the four core points of heather maintenance in spring to help you cultivate high-quality plants with luxuriant branches and leaves. 1. Nutrient management strategies 1.1 Base fertilizer application techniques Newly planted heather requires laying a 5cm thick decomposed organic fertilizer at the bottom of the planting hole. It is recommended to use a ratio of sheep manure and bone meal of 3:1, which can not only provide nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, but also improve soil structure. 1.2 It is recommended to use slow-release compound fertilizer (NPK15 -10-15) every month for adult plants, apply it in a circular ditch along the projection range of the crown, and the depth is controlled at 15-20cm. Additional foliar fertilizer can be applied during the spring germination period, and potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution containing trace elements (concentration 0.2%) can be sprayed. 2. Scientific irrigation system The root system of heather has water-storing characteristics. It is recommended to adopt the "dry and wet cycle method": thorough irrigation is carried out when the surface soil is dry to 3 cm. The northern region needs to pay special attention to thawing water irrigation. When the daytime temperature stabilizes above 5℃, it should be poured thoroughly at an interval of 3 hours twice to avoid freezing damage. 3. Modeling and pruning art 3.1 Treatment of sick and weak branches, priority should be given to cutting off thin and weak branches with a diameter of less than 0.5 cm. The incision should be 1 cm away from the main stem and formed a 45° slope, and wound healing agent should be applied to prevent infection. 3.2 The key points of modeling design are to retain branches above third level in the spherical shape, and the trunk height needs to be maintained at 80-120cm for umbrella-shaped pruning. Spray brassinolide promptly after pruning to promote the germination of hidden buds. 4. The pest and disease control system focuses on the control of scale insects (larvae stage in March) and leaf spot disease. It is recommended to use a combination of spirotetramate + difenoconazole. Solar disinfection can be used for soil disinfection: after turning the soil, cover it with a transparent film and expose it to the sun for 15 days to effectively kill nematode eggs.
Through a four-dimensional maintenance system of precise fertilization, scientific irrigation, artistic pruning and systematic protection, heather can achieve explosive growth in spring. It is recommended to conduct monthly leaf color observation and branch hardness testing, and adjust the maintenance plan in a timely manner. Master these key technologies and your heather will become the most eye-catching ecological landscape in the courtyard.