The Cultivation Method of Hippeastrum
Known as the 'flowering machine' in the flower community, Hippeastrum captivates many with its large flower buds and bright colors. However, many people encounter issues such as bud drop, root rot, and no flowering during the maintenance process. Today, I will introduce to you the secret of maintaining Hippeastrum to bloom yearly from five key dimensions.
Golden Rules for Root Maintenance
1.1 Soil Mixing Plan Determines Success or Failure
Using a golden ratio of 5:3:2 for decayed leaf soil, coarse coconut shell, and perlite can ensure nutrient supply and have excellent breathability. When repotting in spring every year, remember to lay a 3cm thick layer of ceramsite at the bottom of the pot to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
1.2 Precision Control of pH Value
Regularly test the soil pH with pH test paper to maintain a slightly acidic environment of 6.0-6.5. Add lemon acid solution (1g per 2L of water) when watering monthly, which can significantly increase the absorption rate of phosphorus.
Environmental Control Trilogy
2.1 Temperature Rhythm Control
Keep the ideal temperature of 18-25℃ in spring and autumn, and move it to the north-facing balcony when the temperature exceeds 30℃ in summer. Low temperature in winter is the key: a continuous 45 days of 5-10℃ environment can awaken more than 60% of dormant flower buds.
2.2 Practice of Light and Shadow Magic
Ensure a combination of 4 hours of direct sunlight and 4 hours of scattered light daily, and use a shading net to adjust the light intensity. Rotate the pot 180° regularly to avoid plant leaning due to phototropism.
Water and Fertilizer Management Schedule
3.1 Watering Rhythm Control
Use the 'soaking pot' method to water more thoroughly: once a week in spring and autumn, once every 3 days in summer (combined with a fan to enhance evaporation), and once every half month in winter. Always make sure the water temperature is the same as the room temperature.
3.2 Nutrition Supply Plan
Alternately use Huaduo 1 (NPK 20-20-20) and monopotassium phosphate (1:1500) during the growing period, and apply additional calcium and magnesium fertilizer during the bud formation stage. Bury bone meal in September every year to store energy for flowering the following year.
Art of Sculpting Management
4.1 Scientific Pruning Techniques
After flowering, cut the remaining flowers at a 45-degree angle, leaving a 15cm flower stem to naturally absorb nutrients. Regularly thin the bottom old leaves to keep 5-6 functional leaves. Apply多菌灵 powder to the cut surface to prevent pathogen invasion.
4.2 Timing of Division Propagation
When the diameter of the lateral bulb reaches 1/3 of the mother bulb, perform division around Qingming. Stop watering 3 days before the operation, quickly separate with a blade disinfected with alcohol, and then let the wound dry before potting.
From soil selection and potting to flowering control, every step of maintaining Hippeastrum hides secrets. Mastering the interrelationship of these five core points, combined with regular observation and adjustment, even beginners can enjoy a blossoming scene. Remember, the growth rhythm of the plant is the best maintenance guide, and when you learn to resonate with Hippeastrum, those impressive blooms will come as expected.