What to Do When Camellia Flowers Do Not Bloom
As a traditional famous flower in China, the issue of camellia flowers not blooming has perplexed many flower enthusiasts. Although the plant has lush branches and leaves, there are no flowers to enjoy, which is often closely related to three major maintenance aspects: light regulation, water management, and nutrient supply. This article will analyze the specific causes from a practical perspective and provide operational solutions.
Key to Light Regulation
Strong Light Burn and Insufficient Light
Camellias are semi-shady plants, requiring shielding from direct midday sunlight in spring and summer to prevent leaf scorching. It is recommended to use a sunblock net with 50% light transmission, maintaining soft light before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m. In winter, ensure all-day lighting, especially placing the plant on a south-facing balcony in northern regions.
Control of Light Duration
During the bud differentiation period (June to August), the plant needs to be exposed to direct sunlight for 4 hours a day. Using LED plant grow lights can enhance the quality of flower buds. Observe the color of new leaves: yellowing and thinning indicate excessive light, while dark green and dull leaves require more light.
Scientific Water Management
Regulation of Root Respiration
Use the 'moist when dry' watering method, watering thoroughly when the top 3 cm of soil is dry. In summer, enhance aeration by using ceramsite mulch, and in winter, ensure the water temperature difference from room temperature is ≤5°C using a thermometer. Accumulated water can cause (T-J) disease, and regular application of EM bacteria solution can improve the soil environment.
Water Control Techniques During Flower Bud Stage
Implement progressive water control after bud formation: reduce watering by 10% each week for a month. Combined with foliar application of potassium dihydrogen phosphate (0.1% concentration), this can effectively reduce the rate of bud drop by over 60%.
Precise Nutrient Supply
Combination of Base and Top Dressing Fertilizers
In spring, apply decomposed sheep manure (200g per pot) + bone meal (50g) as a base fertilizer, and from May, water with fish protein water-soluble fertilizer (diluted 1000 times) every half month. Stop using nitrogen fertilizer in September and switch to potassium sulfate (0.2% solution) to promote bud expansion.
Supplement of Trace Elements
Regularly test the soil pH value, maintaining it between 5.5-6.5. Apply chelated iron (5g/pot) every spring to prevent iron deficiency yellow leaves. Spraying boron-zinc fertilizer before flowering can increase the flower diameter by 15%-20%.
Through systematic regulation of the three elements of light, water, and nutrients, combined with regular pruning (keeping 3-5 main branches) and pest and disease prevention (spraying sophora alkaloids monthly), camellias can bloom profusely every year. It is recommended to establish a maintenance log, recording the changes in the plant after each operation, gradually forming a personalized maintenance plan.