How to care for newly purchased calamus
As a classic green plant that carries the culture of the Dragon Boat Festival, calamus is highly favored for its elegant sword-like leaves and fresh temperament. However, newly purchased calamus often turns yellow and wilted due to improper care. Mastering scientific caring methods can help it quickly adapt to the new environment and show the unique charm of "desktop clear supply."
Ⅰ. Key Steps for Planting Calamus
Operation of Stone Attachment Rooting Method
Using the stone attachment rooting method can simulate the native environment: select aerated stones such as stream stones or volcanic rocks, wrap the cleaned calamus roots loosely around the stones, and place them in a shallow water dish. This method maintains root ventilation through the gaps in the stones, which is more in line with its semi-aquatic characteristics than direct soil cultivation.
Yellow Leaf Pruning Techniques
After planting, use a pointed forceps to remove the withered outer leaves, leaving the central bud. Cut at a 45-degree angle along the base of the leaf sheath and apply charcoal powder to the cut to prevent infection. Rotate the pot weekly to ensure even light absorption and promote the development of long and slender leaves.
Ⅱ. Daily Management Skills for Calamus
Nutrient Solution Mixing Plan
Do not fertilize during the initial planting period (2-3 weeks), and after new roots have sprouted, use a general hydroponic nutrient solution with an N-P-K ratio of 1:1:1, diluted at a ratio of 1:2000. Supplement the solution once a week during spring and autumn, and once every half month during the high-temperature summer period.
Light Control Strategy
Place it by a gauze curtain window or under tree shade, exposed to scattered light of 3000-5000Lux. It can receive 1-2 hours of direct sunlight in the morning and needs to be shaded at noon. Regularly wipe the leaf surface with a soft cloth to enhance photosynthesis efficiency.
Ⅲ. Advanced Care Guide
Environmental Humidity Control
Keep the air humidity between 60%-75%, which can be adjusted by using the pot-in-pot method (outer pot filled with wet pebbles) or an ultrasonic humidifier. Ensure ventilation to prevent mildew and turn on the circulating fan for 2 hours daily during the plum rain season.
Division Propagation Timing
After one year of care, divide the clumping plant into 3-4 plants in spring, each with more than 5 roots. After dividing, soak in a carbendazim solution for 15 minutes, and then replant to obtain multiple elegant calamus pots.
Following this systematic care plan, newly purchased calamus can not only survive smoothly but also display its ornamental value of "jade-like elegance". Regularly observe the plant's condition and adjust the care details according to seasonal changes to let this millennial cultural plant continue its elegance in modern living spaces.