How to Care for Carnations in Summer
As a symbol of Mother's Day, carnations require special care during the hot summer months to extend their blooming period. The unique climate of high temperature and humidity in summer directly affects the survival rate and blooming quality of carnations. This article will systematically analyze four core maintenance techniques to help you create a carnation garden in the midst of summer.
Temperature Control Management
Environmental Cooling Strategies
When the temperature exceeds 30℃, the metabolic rate of carnations decreases by 50%, and it is necessary to start the cooling program immediately. It is recommended to complete ventilation and aeration before 8 a.m. and set the air conditioner to 28℃±2℃ during the day to prevent plants from having stress reactions due to large temperature differences.
Medium Cooling Techniques
Wrapping wet hemp cloth around the outside of the pot can reduce the root temperature by 3-5℃, and using ceramsite mulch can enhance the cooling effect. Keep the matrix moisture between 40%-60%, avoiding waterlogging that can lead to root rot.
Light Management Plan
Scientific Sunshade System
When using double-layer sunshade nets, it is recommended to choose a black net with a shading rate of 50% for the outer layer and a silver-gray net with a 30% shading rate for the inner layer, which can reflect strong light and ensure that scattered light penetrates. Continuous shading is required from 10:00 to 16:00 every day, and the rest of the time can be exposed to morning and evening light.
Supplementary Lighting Measures
Supplement LED plant lights during long periods of cloudy and rainy days, set the blue-red light ratio to 4:1, and provide 2-3 hours of supplementary lighting per day to effectively prevent excessive growth.
Accurate Water and Fertilizer Control
Smart Irrigation Plan
Use the "dry-wet" method, when the top 2cm of the matrix is dry, slowly inject water along the pot edge with a fine-mist spray bottle. It is recommended to spray the leaves with phosphorus acid hydrogen potassium (0.1% concentration) every 10 days, which can replenish water and nutrients.
Air Humidity Balance
Set a humidity monitor around the pot to maintain a relative humidity of 55%-65%. A combination of cobblestone water tray and ultrasonic humidifier can be used to prevent water droplets from coming into direct contact with the leaves and causing diseases.
Comprehensive Pest and Disease Control
Biological Control System
Regularly releasing predatory mites (50-80 per square meter) can effectively control red spiders. When aphids are found, spray with a solution of Sophora flavescens alkaloid diluted 200 times, twice a week for continuous treatment.
Physical Barrier Measures
Install a 60-mesh anti-insect net at the air vent and cover the surface of the pot soil with a layer of diatomaceous earth, which can block more than 80% of the insect invasion paths.
By establishing a four-dimensional maintenance system focusing on temperature, light, water, and pest and disease control, carnations can not only safely survive the summer but also achieve secondary blooming. It is recommended to conduct a plant health assessment every month and adjust the maintenance plan in a timely manner to keep this flower representing mother's love continuously blooming.