How to Make the Ficus Pumila Bush Bloom
To achieve the full bloom effect of a flourishing Ficus pumila, it is necessary to master scientific care methods. This thorny yet beautiful plant can display a full and立体 growth form through proper nutrient management, pruning techniques, light control, and combined with cutting propagation. This article will analyze the secrets to a full bloom from four core dimensions.
I. Nutrient Supply Management
Long-acting Slow-release Base Fertilizer
It is recommended to use decomposed sheep manure or bone meal as a base fertilizer, mixing 500g of organic fertilizer per cubic meter of substrate to continuously release nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium elements. A 3cm thick layer of ceramsite should be placed at the bottom of the pot, which can both drain water and prevent the loss of fertilizer.
Fertilization Plan During the Growing Season
In spring and summer, apply a special slow-release fertilizer for flowers every 20 days, following the principle of "light fertilization often." Dissolve 5g of fertilizer in 1000ml of clear water and water it. During the budding stage, apply an extra phosphorus potassium solution (1:1500) to promote bud differentiation.
II. Art of Pruning for Shape
Shaping Techniques in the Seedling Stage
Pinch the top for the first time when the plant reaches 15cm in height, leaving 3-4 pairs of true leaves to promote the growth of lateral branches. Then, every 10cm of growth, perform secondary topping, using a sterilized scissor to make a 45° diagonal cut and apply wood ash to the cut to prevent infection.
Pruning Standards for Adult Plants
Immediately after flowering, cut off the spent flowers and the 2 pairs of leaves below, leaving a 15cm main branch. Prune crossing branches and inner branches to maintain good ventilation and light penetration, reducing the ineffective consumption of nutrients.
III. Light Control Strategies
Ensure 6 hours of direct sunlight in spring and autumn, use a sunshade net to filter strong light from 10:00-15:00 in summer. In winter, adopt a full daylight mode, and rotate the pot 180° weekly to ensure even light exposure. Maintain a light intensity of 30000-50000 lux to make the leaves display a healthy crimson color.
IV. Efficient Cutting Propagation
Key Points for Cutting Treatment
Select semi-woody branches, retain 3 nodes, and soak the cut ends in indolebutyric acid solution (500ppm) for 10 minutes. Prepare the substrate according to the ratio of perlite:vermiculite:peatmoss = 1:1:2, and maintain a pH value between 6.0-6.5.
Transplanting Care Process
Keep a constant temperature of 25℃ and humidity of 80% after cutting, and roots can form in 15 days. When the new buds have grown 3 pairs of true leaves, transplant them with soil around the mother plant to form a clustering effect. Avoid direct sunlight for 7 days after transplanting, and use brassinolide to increase the survival rate during the acclimatization period.
Through systematic care management, Ficus pumila can achieve a full bloom effect with a crown expansion of 200% in 6-8 months. It is recommended to conduct a growth assessment every month, adjust the care plan in a timely manner, and combine turning the pot, loosening the soil, and other basic operations to keep the plant always full of vitality.