How to acclimate a newly bought azalea
As a popular ornamental flower in spring, a newly acquired azalea requires scientific acclimatization care to continue blooming. This article systematically analyzes the complete process of azaleas adapting to a new environment, from environmental control and water management to flowering care, to help you create a colorful balcony landscape.
Core treatment plan for azalea acclimatization period
1. Potting taboos and light management
Azaleas with flower buds are extremely sensitive to root disturbance, and reckless repotting can lead to bud drop in over 90% of the plants. It is recommended to maintain the original pot for at least 30 days and consider repotting after the flowering period ends. The intensity of light should be adjusted in stages: for the first 3 days, keep it in a fully shaded environment, from the 4th to the 7th day transition to a scattered light area, and from the second week, expose to 2 hours of morning light daily.
2. Temperature and humidity协同 control method
Maintain an ideal temperature range of 18-22°C, combined with 60%-70% air humidity. You can use the double-layer tray method: fill the bottom tray with 1cm of water, invert the upper tray to form a suspended layer, ensuring both ventilation and humidity. Be especially careful to avoid spraying water directly on the leaves to prevent brown spots on the petals.
Key points of flowering extension care technology
1. Intelligent watering determination standard
Use the 'three-finger test': place the index, middle, and ring fingers side by side into the pot soil to a depth of 2cm, and water when the fingertips feel slightly moist. It is recommended to use a long-spouted pot to slowly pour water along the pot wall, completing the watering process in three stages with 10-minute intervals between each.
2. Principle of suspending nutritional supplements
Fertilization should be completely stopped during the flowering period, and the slow-release fertilizer in commercial substrates can maintain a 45-day nutrient supply. After flowering, promptly prune the remaining flowers and supplement with phosphorus and potassium fertilizers. It is recommended to use a diluted solution of potassium dihydrogen phosphate (1:1000), applying once every 10 days by foliar spray.
Systematic care plan after flowering
1. Scientific pruning timing and method
The best pruning period is within 7 days after the last flower fades, retaining 2-3 pairs of healthy leaves for shortening the branches. Use pruning shears that have been disinfected with alcohol, with a 45° slanted cut surface to promote healing. Immediately after pruning, spray 800 times the solution of carbendazim to prevent infection.
2. Golden standard for potting operation
Change pots when the daily average temperature is stable above 15°C, preferably using breathable containers like red ceramic pots. The recommended matrix formula is: peat soil: pine needle soil: perlite = 5:3:2. When repotting, retain 1/3 of the original soil clump, and place a 3cm thick layer of pine bark at the bottom of the pot as a drainage layer.
Through the systematic care of these three stages, the survival rate of azaleas can increase to over 95%. The key is to grasp the gradual transition of the environment, combined with precise water and fertilizer management. It is recommended to establish a care log to record daily temperature and humidity changes and plant status, gradually mastering the rhythm of personalized care.