The Reasons for the Withering of Bougainvillea Buds
As a common ornamental plant in southern gardens, bougainvillea is deeply loved by horticulture enthusiasts for its bright bracts. However, recently many plant lovers have reported that their plants are showing signs of bud tip withering, which not only affects the ornamental value but also threatens the plant's health. This article will systematically analyze the four major causes of withering and provide targeted solutions.
Pathological Tracing of Bud Withering
Analysis of Sunburn Mechanism
Bougainvillea is a plant that thrives in sunlight, but its tender bud tips have a low tolerance threshold for ultraviolet radiation. When the light intensity exceeds 30000 lux and lasts for more than 5 hours, the structure of the chloroplast will be damaged, leading to an imbalance in transpiration. It is recommended to use a sunshade net (shading rate 40%-60%) combined with east-west placement to maintain an ideal light intensity of 20000 lux.
Double-Edged Sword of Water Management
The substrate moisture should be maintained within a range of 45%-65%: 1. Symptoms of water deficiency: when the soil EC value is greater than 1.5 ms/cm, cytoplasmic separation occurs. 2. Drowning damage: when the root oxygen content is less than 3 mg/L for 48 consecutive hours, anaerobic respiration will occur. It is recommended to set up a ceramsite drainage layer and use the finger joint detection method (insert the second section of the index finger into the soil to feel the moisture).
Response to Temperature Stress
The sensitive period of low temperature mainly occurs during the flower bud differentiation stage (daily average temperature less than 10°C for 3 consecutive days). It is recommended to use a double-layer insulating film combined with a warm air blower to maintain a night temperature of at least 12°C. In case of sudden temperature drops, a 0.1% brassinolide solution can be sprayed to enhance resistance.
Through the systematic regulation of light, water, and temperature, combined with regular pruning (applying healing ointment to the cut) and nutritional supplementation (N-P-K=15-30-15 water-soluble fertilizer), the plant's vitality can usually be restored within 2-3 growth cycles. It is recommended to establish a maintenance log to record environmental parameters and growth responses, gradually forming a personalized maintenance plan.