Why do the buds of the butterfly orchid drop prematurely
This article provides content related to the green plant flowers regarding why the buds of butterfly orchids drop prematurely, and the following is a detailed explanation by the editor for you.
Why do the buds of butterfly orchids drop prematurely
The possible reasons for the premature dropping of butterfly orchid buds are as follows:
(1) Improper watering and fertilizing. During the growth period of butterfly orchids, excessive watering and fertilizing can cause the stems to elongate, with nutrients being mainly used for the growth of vegetative organs (roots, stems, leaves), leading to a lack of nutrients for reproductive organs (flowers, fruits, or seeds). This affects the formation of flower buds, resulting in no flowers or few flowers, and even if they do bloom, the flowers are prone to drop. This is often caused by excessive application of nitrogen fertilizer and a lack of phosphorus fertilizer. Insufficient phosphorus affects the formation of flower buds. Therefore, during the flower bud differentiation period, it is important to apply more phosphorus-rich fertilizer or a 0.2% potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution to promote flower bud formation and bud development. Over-fertilization during the bud formation stage and irregular watering can also cause flowers and buds to drop. A lack of fertilizer and water during the growth period of the plant can lead to poor growth, weakness, and stunted growth, which can result in fewer flowers or small and poor-quality flowers.
(2) Unsuitable lighting and temperature. Butterfly orchids are native to tropical rainforest regions, preferring semi-shade, warm and humid environments, and slightly tolerant to drought. If the required growth conditions for butterfly orchids are not met, it can easily lead to flower and bud drop.
(3) High salt and alkalinity content in the soil. Butterfly orchids prefer slightly acidic soil and are averse to salt and alkali. Even for those more salt and alkali-tolerant flowers, such as geraniums and roses, if the soil salt content exceeds 0.1% and the pH exceeds 7.5, it can affect their growth and flowering. This is because under slightly acidic conditions, the availability of nutrients in the soil is optimal, which is most suitable for the growth and development of butterfly orchids.
(4) Last year's pseudobulbs were not removed in time, and the damaged leaves not only affect the appearance but also consume a large amount of nutrients due to many aging leaves, which affects the development of flower buds and is also one of the reasons for bud drop.
(5) Unsuitable temperature. In winter, most plants are in a dormant or semi-dormant state, and butterfly orchids are not cold-tolerant, with room temperatures between 16-30°C being ideal. If the room temperature is below 13°C, the butterfly orchid will show signs of frostbite on the flowers and leaves, fail to bloom, or even drop buds prematurely. If the room temperature is too high, it will affect the butterfly orchid's full dormancy or cause it to sprout leaves prematurely, consuming a lot of nutrients, which can lead to weak growth the following year, no flowers or small and weak flowers, and easy premature dropping.
(6) Pest and disease damage. During the growth and development of butterfly orchids, they are susceptible to pest and disease damage, which can disrupt growth and affect nutrient accumulation, and this is also a reason for flower and bud drop.
The above information about why the buds of butterfly orchids drop prematurely is provided for everyone's reference.