Carnation Cultivation Methods
As a classic flower symbolizing maternal love, the sight of carnations blooming on windowsills and in gardens always brings a warm atmosphere. Many flower enthusiasts often encounter problems such as early plant aging and difficulty in reblooming during the planting process, which is actually closely related to the details of maintenance. This article will deeply analyze the growth code of perennial carnations, helping you master the key elements to extend the blooming period.
Characteristics of Perennial Plants
Carnations are essentially perennial herbaceous plants of the Caryophyllaceae family and can survive 3-5 years in their native habitat. However, potted carnations at home often show a decrease in blooming in the second year, which is closely related to three factors:
Mainenance of Root Health
It is necessary to repot and prune the roots every spring, removing the entwined old roots and retaining the white new roots, and replacing them with a loose and breathable substrate. Using ceramsite as a base can prevent root rot due to waterlogging, which is the primary condition for extending the plant's life.
Woody Stem Treatment
The base of the plant will gradually become woody after three years, and it is necessary to cut the stems to 5 cm in the late autumn to stimulate the growth of new buds in spring. Combined with root feeding with nutrient solution can enhance the plant's regenerative ability.
Core Points of Seasonal Maintenance
Advanced Sunlight Management Techniques
Except for shading at noon in summer, ensure 6 hours of direct sunlight in other seasons. A south-facing windowsill combined with a reflective board can keep the plant compact. Supplementing with grow lights for 2 hours daily during winter can effectively prevent excessive growth.
Key Points of Water Control
Use the "wet-dry alternation" method: water thoroughly when the top 2 cm of soil is dry, and control water 15 days before the blooming period, extending the interval between waterings by 2 days each time to promote bud differentiation. Use a long-spouted pot to water along the edge of the pot to avoid water accumulation in the leaf heart.
Special Temperature Regulation Plan
Keep an ideal temperature difference of 15-22°C, and use a circulating fan when the temperature exceeds 28°C in summer. Maintain a temperature of no lower than 10°C at night in winter by using the pot-in-pot method. A day-night temperature difference of more than 8°C during the budding stage can significantly improve the color saturation of the flowers.
Secrets to Extending the Lifecycle
Immediately cut off the残花 (withered flowers) to the second pair of leaves after blooming to retain nutrients and promote lateral branching. Add seaweed extract when applying phosphorus and potassium fertilizer monthly to enhance stress resistance. Regularly remove the lower old leaves to maintain ventilation and reduce diseases. By taking cuttings to back up new seedlings, a continuous display of generations can be achieved.
Mastering these maintenance essences, carnations can continue to bloom in a perennial form. Different varieties have different lifespans, and choosing improved varieties such as the "Evergreen" series, combined with scientific management, can make this fragrance last longer.