Can azaleas fertilize during flowering period
As one of the top ten famous flowers in China, azalea flowers are inseparable from scientific fertilization management. Correct fertilization timing and method can not only prolong flowering period, but also promote healthy growth of plants. Mastering the laws of fertilization throughout the year is the key to raising rhododendrons well. Spring fertilization techniques Pre-flowering nutrient reserves Use decomposed cake fertilizer water during the germination period from March to April, diluted at a ratio of 1:15, and watered along the edge of the pot every 10 days. Apply potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution (800-fold dilution) before buds appear to promote the development of flower buds. Be careful to avoid fertilizer solution coming into contact with new root systems. Key points for fertilizer control during flowering period: Stop all fertilizer supply during peak flowering period. Fertilizing at this time may easily lead to buds falling and scorched edges. Flower resilience can be enhanced by spraying 0.1% borax solution on the leaves, once a week in the morning. Summer conservation strategy Restoration and fertilization after flowering In late May, after flowering, timely supplementation of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium balanced fertilizers (N-P-K=10-10-10), and organic compost is used to improve the soil. It is recommended to use slow-release fertilizer granules, spread 5-8 grams per pot to avoid burning roots at high temperatures. Dormancy period management Keep the environment ventilated from June to August, and irrigate EM bacterial stock solution (1:500 dilution) once a month to maintain root activity. When the temperature continues to exceed 32℃, the fertilization operation will be completely stopped. During the critical period of flowering promotion in autumn, high-phosphorus formula fertilizer (N-P-K=5-15-5) is applied from September to October, combined with humic acid to promote nutrient absorption. Spray fish protein foliar fertilizer (800-fold dilution) every week to enhance cold resistance. The fertilizer concentration is controlled using the principle of "thin fertilizer and frequent application", and the fertilizer EC value is controlled at 0.8-1.2mS/cm. The "backwater" needs to be watered thoroughly within 24 hours after fertilization to prevent salt accumulation. Winter maintenance specifications Before overwintering, prepare to apply bone meal (20 grams per pot) and potassium sulfate (5 grams per pot) in early November to enhance the freezing resistance of plants. In northern areas, silicon fertilizer can be increased to increase the thickness of cell walls. During the low temperature period, it is forbidden to stop fertilization and the roots will enter a dormant state when the environmental temperature is less than 10℃. You can lay 3 cm thick pine needle soil to keep warm and slowly release nutrients.
A scientific fertilization system should be combined with the adjustment of plant growth, observe the color of new leaves to judge nitrogen fertilizer requirements, and the number of flower buds should reflect phosphorus and potassium levels. It is recommended to establish a fertilization log to record the type, concentration and plant response of each fertilizer, and gradually form a personalized maintenance plan. Through precise fertilization throughout the year, azaleas bloom in a beautiful sea of flowers every year.