Cultivation methods and precautions for iron chopsticks
Among many leaf-viewing plants, iron chopsticks are deeply loved for their unique leaf shape and shade resistance. However, many flower lovers report that plants are prone to problems such as yellow leaves and wilting. In fact, as long as you master a few key maintenance factors, this plant called "Christmas rose" can be made green all year round. The following explains the key points of cultivation in detail from five dimensions. Light and temperature control scattered light environment The lighting requirements for building iron chopsticks show seasonal changes. Spring and autumn can accept 3-4 hours of soft morning light, and a sunshade net is needed to filter 50% of direct light in summer. For indoor maintenance in winter, it is recommended to place it 1.5 meters away from the south window and use gauze curtains to form a diffuse reflective environment. The temperature adjustment plan is suitable for growth between 15 and 25℃. If it exceeds 30℃, ventilation needs to be strengthened. A wet gravel layer can be laid on the ground to cool down. The overwintering temperature should not be lower than 5℃. It is recommended to enter the house for maintenance in northern areas to avoid frost damaging the root system. Water management strategy Irrigation timing Grasp the spring germination period to keep the soil moist but no water, and water it once a day in the morning and evening in summer (potted plants can be soaked in pots to replenish water). During the winter dormancy period, pour a small amount of warm water along the edge of the pot every 10 days, taking care to avoid wetting the leaf cores. Humidity maintenance skills The air humidity needs to be maintained at 60%-70%, which can be achieved by laying wet ceramite on trays or spraying regularly. Pay attention to drainage and waterlogging prevention in the rainy season, and ridge planting is recommended for ground planting. Nutrient supply system The ratio of base fertilizer and topdressing is mixed with decomposed sheep manure (accounting for 20%) as base fertilizer. Fish protein liquid fertilizer diluted by 1000 times is applied every month during the growing period, phosphorus and potassium fertilizers are added during the budding period, and nitrogen fertilizer is stopped in September and bone meal overwintering fertilizer is used instead. During special periods, fertilization will be suspended within 2 weeks after pot change, and new leaves will be restored after unfolding. If the leaf margins appear to be scorched, spray 0.2% ferrous sulfate solution for adjustment. Select the ideal soil formula for substrate and container. Recommended ratio: 40% red jade soil +30% leaf soil +20% volcanic rock +10% bamboo charcoal particles. A breathable pottery pot should be used for potted plants, and the substrate should be replaced every 2 years to retain 1/3 of the soil. Plant shape management Scientific pruning technique Cut off the residual flowers in time after flowers to above the second pair of leaves to retain intact leaf buds. Cut dense branches every spring to keep the plant type transparent. Trimming tools need to be disinfected with alcohol, and the incision should be coated with charcoal powder to prevent infection. Pest and insect pest prevention regularly inspect the back of the leaves and find that red spiders can be treated with azedra oil diluent. Spraying Bordeaux mixture before the plum rainy season to prevent (T-J) disease, and maintaining environmental ventilation can effectively reduce the occurrence of diseases.
Through systematic maintenance and management, iron chopsticks can not only spend the summer safely, but also bloom elegant flowers in winter. The key is to understand its growth rhythm-promoting growth in spring, saving life in summer, storing energy in autumn, and cultivating roots in winter. It is recommended to establish a maintenance log, record watering and fertilization time, and gradually form a personalized cultivation plan.