How to care for newly bought red掌
Having trouble keeping your new red掌 alive? As a representative of the Araceae ornamental plants, red掌 is deeply loved by flower enthusiasts for its fiery red spathe. However, the recently transplanted plant requires special care. This article guides you step by step in creating a suitable environment for red掌, from environmental regulation, water management to pest and disease control.
Key Elements of Environmental Regulation
Three Key Points of Temperature Control
Newly purchased red掌 is sensitive to temperature fluctuations; it is recommended to maintain a constant temperature of 20-30℃. In the summer at noon, shading is required, and a sunblock net with 50% light transmission can be used for protection. In winter, when the temperature is below 15℃, it is advisable to use a plant heating mat to maintain the soil temperature.
Golden Ratio of Humidity Management
Maintaining 60-80% air humidity is ideal. A misting humidifier can be operated for 1 hour in the morning and evening. Be careful to prevent water droplets from accumulating in the spathe and use a cotton swab to promptly absorb accumulated water. During the winter heating season, it is recommended to use a humidity monitor.
Advanced Guidelines for Maintenance Operations
Timing and Method of Repotting
It is recommended to observe the plant for 15 days after bringing it home before repotting. Choose a ceramic pot 5cm larger than the original one and place a 3cm layer of ceramic stones at the bottom for drainage. When repotting, retain 1/3 of the original soil and mix the new soil with peat soil and perlite in a ratio of 3:1. Using a decorative pot after repotting can enhance its visual appeal.
Precautions for Fertilizer and Pesticide Use
Chemical agents are prohibited during the acclimatization period. Diseased leaves can be pruned with a disinfectant alcohol-treated scissor. After 7 days, a diluted 2000 times flowering-type nutrient solution can be applied. A specialized fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 9-3-6 is recommended, to be applied once every half month.
Establishing a Long-term Maintenance System
It is recommended to set a maintenance memo to record watering times, and use a soil moisture meter for scientific management. Replace 1/3 of the potting soil every spring to supplement organic matter and regularly wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to keep the stomata unobstructed. By establishing a stable maintenance rhythm, red掌 can continue to bloom for over 200 days.