When does Catharanthus roseus bloom?
This article brings you the topic of when Catharanthus roseus blooms and the cultivation methods of this plant. Let's follow the editor to find out more!
Catharanthus roseus is a herbaceous perennial plant that can bloom all year round, hence its alias "Four Seasons梅花". The plant is characterized by many branches and opposite leaves. The leaves are oblong, hairless on both sides, with green-white main veins, and the flowers have a pink center with five pink petals. Although it can be seen in many scenarios, it is surprising to learn that there are so many considerations in the planting process, which is really enlightening.
I. Morphological Characteristics
Catharanthus roseus prefers high-temperature regions and has strong shade tolerance. The optimal growing temperature range is between 20 to 33 degrees Celsius. It is not afraid of dryness but dislikes excessive moisture, not afraid of high temperatures but dislikes cold. Although Catharanthus roseus can bloom all year round, it is most vigorous from July to October each year. During this period, if it can be ensured to have ample sunlight, the leaf color is very vibrant, and the luster is indeed impressive. However, if the growing environment is阴暗, the leaves will gradually turn yellow, and the number of flowers will not be very impressive.
In southern China, most of the plants are grown in the ground; in the north of the Yangtze River, pot planting is more common because the outdoor climate in winter is not suitable for the growth of Catharanthus roseus, and pot planting is convenient for moving and changing the growing environment.
II. Reproductive Characteristics
The reproduction of Catharanthus roseus usually involves sowing seeds. The growth of seedlings is very slow, and when the seedlings have grown three to four leaves, they can be transplanted. The transplanting stage should have at least six to eight pairs of leaves. Generally, if sown in early spring, the plants can be transplanted by May. After transplanting, water every three to five days and add phosphorus and potassium fertilizers appropriately to promote leafy growth and flowering.
Besides sowing, cutting can also be used. Cuttings are taken in spring from the old plants that have safely overwintered, with a length of about 10 centimeters and leaves must be included. Insert the cuttings into moist sandy soil and maintain an ambient temperature of about 20 degrees Celsius, shading if the temperature is too high and watering if the humidity is insufficient.
III. Key Points of Maintenance
Catharanthus roseus can grow all year round as long as the temperature meets the growing conditions. Therefore, regardless of the season, the application of fertilizer is absolutely necessary. Always pay attention to the moisture status of the soil and do not let it remain in a state of high moisture for a long time.
In the south, if encountering consecutive rainy days, it is necessary to do a good job of drainage to prevent the entire plant from dying due to excessive water. In the north, attention should be paid to the issue of watering, as the low temperature reduces the plant's absorption capacity, and frequent watering can cause the plant to be overwhelmed, so it is better to be slightly dry rather than too wet.
To make Catharanthus roseus grow more luxuriantly, it is important to strengthen the growth trend of the branches, and the task of pinching off the growing tip is crucial. Generally, there should be at least two pinching treatments from transplanting to flowering. This way, the growth of the plant shape will be smoother.
Catharanthus roseus is one of the common herbaceous flowers in gardens in the Jiangnan region. Because it can be seen in many places and is always blooming, many people think it is a type of plant that can survive without management, but they do not know that there are actually many considerations. However, compared to other flowers, Catharanthus roseus is indeed an easy-to-care-for plant.
The above is all about when Catharanthus roseus blooms and understanding the cultivation methods of Catharanthus roseus, for your comprehensive understanding and reference!