Should You Cut Off the Flowers of Succulents
Succulents in bloom often put enthusiasts in a dilemma, as the tender flower spikes not only carry the continuation of life but may also become a deadly burden on the plant. Proper handling of succulent flower spikes can not only extend the plant's lifespan but also create unexpected horticultural value. This article will analyze the criteria for determining the timing of pruning from a scientific care perspective and share five practical treatment methods.
Core Criteria for Pruning Blossoming Succulents
Retention Determined by Variety Characteristics
For succulents like Mountain Rose and Sediolum, which die after flowering, it is necessary to cut off the flower spikes as soon as the flower buds form. It is recommended to establish a variety database, marking the names of succulents that easily die after flowering for quick decision-making during care.
Method for Assessing Plant Condition
Judging nutrient reserves by observing the fullness of the leaves and the degree of lignification of the stems. When leaves develop longitudinal wrinkles or the base leaves fall off rapidly, the flower spikes should be cut off immediately, complemented by applying phosphorus and potassium fertilizers to supplement nutrition.
Key Points for Disease and Pest Control
The secretion of nectar attracts a swarm of aphids. If the flower spike has transparent sticky liquid or black mold spots, it should be cut off along with the upper 2cm of the stem and the cut should be wiped with 75% alcohol.
Five Regeneration and Utilization Solutions for Succulent Flower Spikes
Hydroponic Ikebana Art
Select robust flower spikes with a diameter of over 1cm, cut diagonally at a 45-degree angle to increase water absorption area. Use a transparent glass bottle with volcanic stones for fixation, and add 2 drops of preservative each time you change the water, which can maintain the flowering period for 15-25 days.
Advanced Leaf Cutting Propagation
Leafy flower spikes need to be dried in a shaded place for 3 days before being placed flat on a surface of vermiculite and peat (3:1) mixture. Maintain an ambient temperature of 22-25°C, with intermittent misting to keep moisture, and new roots can be observed in about 20 days.
Dry Specimen Creation
Hang the complete flower spike upside down in a well-ventilated and shaded area, with silica gel desiccant to create preserved flowers. The treated specimens can maintain their natural shape for 2-3 years and serve as unique horticultural decorations.
Organic Compost Material
Blend chopped flower spikes with coffee grounds and eggshell powder for fermentation to create a slow-release fertilizer for succulents. After 45 days of composting, a slightly acidic nutrient soil with a pH of 6.0-6.5 can be obtained.
Stock Material for Grafting Propagation
Select healthy flower spikes from the same genus of Crassulaceae plants, and use the split grafting method to achieve variety improvement. The best operation period is early spring, with a grafting success rate of over 68%.
Proper handling of succulent flower spikes is a combination of wisdom and skill. By scientifically determining the timing of pruning and complementing it with creative reuse, not only can you protect the health of the plant, but also expand the joy of horticulture. It is recommended to establish a care log, recording the flowering responses of different varieties, and gradually forming a personalized succulent management plan.