How to Pot a Newly Purchased Azalea
The newly acquired azalea needs scientific potting and careful maintenance to bloom quickly. This article will analyze step by step from pot selection and soil preparation to flowering management, helping flower enthusiasts master key cultivation techniques.
Standard Operating Procedure for Potting Azaleas
Golden Rules for Pot and Soil Preparation
It is recommended to use a breathable pot with a diameter 5cm larger than the original soil ball, with a purple sand pot being the best choice. The matrix ratio is peat soil: pine needles: perlite = 5:3:2, with a pH value controlled between 4.5-5.5. Special reminder: In northern regions, it is necessary to water with a ferrous sulfate solution once a month to maintain an acidic environment.
Critical Steps for Disinfection Treatment
Use a double disinfection method: soak the pot in a 0.1% potassium permanganate solution for 30 minutes and then dry in the sun, and spread the matrix flat in the sun for 48 hours. Note: Avoid using unfermented organic fertilizers directly, as they can easily cause root rot.
Core Principles for Root Treatment
While retaining the protective soil, gently comb the outer entangled roots with a bamboo skewer. Add a 5cm thick layer of ceramic stones as a drainage layer when planting, and fill in the matrix, then pull up the plant to allow the roots to naturally spread. The root water should be watered thoroughly in three installments, with a 10-minute interval between each.
Three Key Elements of Azalea Flower Promotion and Maintenance
Accurate Water Management
Keep the matrix moist (water content 40%-60%) in spring and autumn, and spray with water in the morning and evening in summer to increase humidity. Using the immersion pot method to replenish water is safer, and the water temperature needs to be consistent with the ambient temperature. Special tip: Water control during the bud formation stage can promote flower bud differentiation.
Scientific Fertilization Plan
Apply a diluted solution of potassium dihydrogen phosphate (1:2000) every half month during the growing period, and add decomposed fish intestine water (1:50) during the bud formation period. Note: The ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium needs to be adjusted according to the growth stage, and nitrogen fertilizer should be stopped 30 days before flowering.
Environmental Control Points
Maintain a day-night temperature difference of 8-10°C and control the light intensity between 15000-20000Lux. Use a humidifier to maintain an air humidity of over 70%, and place a water tray under the pot to increase humidity through evaporation. Avoid moving the potted plant during the flowering period.
Through scientific potting combined with precise maintenance, azaleas can usually rebloom within 3-6 months. Regularly observe the leaf condition, adjust the maintenance plan in a timely manner, and配合 proper pruning to maintain the plant's continuous flowering ability.