The Cultivation Method of Setcreasea Purpurea
This article provides a detailed explanation of the cultivation methods of Setcreasea purpurea and related knowledge of planting and maintenance. Here are the detailed contents to be shared.
Scientific name of Setcreasea purpurea: Setcreasea purpurea
Alias: Purple Leaf Plant, Purple Leaf Meihua, Purple Brocade Grass, Purple Violet, Purple Bamboo Meihua, Purple Heart Grass.
Propagation Methods
(1) Cutting: During the potting in spring, combine the renewal pruning. Cut 7-10 cm long branches, let them dry slightly, and then insert them. Under semi-shaded, moist conditions and a temperature of 15-25°C, roots can grow in 1-2 weeks with high survival rates. Alternatively, the cuttings can be directly inserted into pots with a diameter of 15-20 cm, several plants per pot. You can also put branches in water, and they will develop roots within a few days.
(2) Division: This should be done in April when potting. Overcrowded plants can be divided into several clumps and then planted separately.
Care Instructions
(1) Temperature: Prefers a warm climate, with the most suitable growth temperature being 15-25°C. Not cold-tolerant, with a safe overwintering temperature of 5°C.
(2) Light: Loves light and can maintain bright leaf color and sturdy internodes only under sufficient sunlight. Prefers semi-shaded environments and does not tolerate strong sunlight exposure. Direct sunlight can make leaves dull, short, and yellow, and the plant will become stunted. From May to September, provide 30-50% shade or place the plant in a well-lit area with scattered light. Avoid excessive shading, or the leaf color will fade to a light pink, and the internodes will become thin and soft. For home planting, it is best to receive 3-4 hours of direct sunlight in the morning and evening. When placed in a dark indoor environment, it should be moved every 2 weeks, otherwise, it will lose its ornamental value. From October to the following April, sufficient sunlight should be provided.
(3) Watering: As the stems and leaves are slightly succulent, they have some drought resistance, so even without watering for several days, they will not wither. However, the plant grows well in moist potting soil. During the growing period, follow the principle of "watering when dry, watering thoroughly," to keep the soil moist but not dry. In winter, water should be reduced to keep the soil relatively dry.
(4) Environmental Humidity: Prefers a humid environment. During the growing season, frequently spray water on the branches and leaves and the surrounding environment to increase the relative humidity of the air. The plant grows vigorously and looks lovely when the relative humidity of the air is high.
(5) Fertilization: During the growing season, apply a combined fertilizer of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium every 1-2 weeks. Using only nitrogen fertilizer will result in robust and large leaves but not bright in color. Stop applying nitrogen fertilizer in September and only apply potash fertilizer to ensure safe overwintering. Stop fertilizing in winter.
(6) Pruning: During the young plant stage, pinching should be done to promote branching and make the plant full. For long-standing plants, the base leaves will wither, making the plant look poor. In spring, combine potting with severe pruning to encourage new growth from the basal part. For old plants with weak growth, consider updating through cutting.
(7) Potting and Repotting: For cuttings that have taken root, plant 3-5 plants in one pot to make the pot plant form early. Repot every 1-2 years. Prefers loose and fertile sandy loam with good drainage. The matrix can be made of leaf mold, peat soil, garden soil, rice husk ash, or clean sand.
(8) Disease and Pest Control: Affected by leaf blight and scale insects.
The above information on the cultivation method of Setcreasea purpurea and the planting and maintenance, introduced by the Green Plant Enthusiast website, provides a comprehensive understanding and reference for you!