How to care for Pterocarpus macrocarpus
As a treasure among tropical plants, Pterocarpus macrocarpus is deeply favored for its unique wood grain texture. However, many people often encounter issues like yellow leaves and withered branches during the care process, which are actually closely related to the details of daily maintenance. Mastering three core elements can help keep your Pterocarpus macrocarpus盆景 vigorous and full of life.
Accurate control of environmental factors
How to meet the light requirements
More than 6 hours of direct sunlight per day is the basic guarantee for the healthy growth of Pterocarpus macrocarpus. It is recommended to place the plant on a southeast-facing balcony, and use a shading net to filter 30% of the light intensity during the noon of summer. In winter, full-spectrum plant growth lights can be used to maintain a stable daily light duration.
What is the importance of soil proportion
Using a mixture of volcanic rock, humus soil, and perlite in a ratio of 4:3:3 can create an ideal slightly acidic environment. The pot needs to be turned over and the soil changed every two years, retaining 1/3 of the protective soil to avoid root damage. Regularly applying sulfur powder can maintain a pH value between 5.5-6.5.
Scientific implementation of water management
Keep the potting soil moist but not waterlogged in spring and autumn, spray twice a day in summer to increase humidity. Reduce the watering amount by 60% in winter, and water thoroughly only when the potting soil is completely dry. Use the bamboo stake test: insert it into the potting soil for 2 minutes, and if no soil sticks to it, you can water.
Key steps in propagation and cultivation
Seed pretreatment needs to go through processes such as soaking in 45℃ warm water and germination with gibberellic acid solution. The sowing substrate needs to be disinfected at high temperature and covered with film to maintain 90% humidity. When the seedlings grow to 15cm, perform root cutting to promote the development of lateral roots.
Key measures for disease prevention
Apply mancozeb before the rainy season to prevent (T-J) disease, and immediately remove diseased leaves. The control of scale insects can be done using a combination of mineral oil and pymetrozine, inspecting the back of leaves monthly. Regularly supplementing with calcium and magnesium fertilizers can enhance the plant's disease resistance.
By precisely controlling the light cycle, improving soil structure, establishing a scientific irrigation system, and following a standardized pest and disease prevention process, even beginners can cultivate strong and healthy Pterocarpus macrocarpus with glossy leaves. It is recommended to record growth data every quarter and gradually develop a personalized maintenance plan.