When does the蟹爪兰 (Schlumbergera) bloom?
As a star flower in the winter and spring seasons, Schlumbergera is deeply loved for its unique stem and leaf morphology and beautiful flowers. However, many flower enthusiasts are confused about its blooming period regulation and fertilizing techniques. This article will help you master scientific maintenance methods through systematic analysis.
1. Key Points of Schlumbergera Blooming Management
1. Characteristics of Natural Blooming Period
Schlumbergera originates from the tropical rainforests of South America, forming a natural blooming period from October to the following February. During this period, the diurnal temperature difference increases and the light intensity decreases, which meets its bud differentiation requirements.
2. Techniques for Early Blooming
Use short-day treatment: 8 hours of natural light + 16 hours of complete darkness environment every day, with special attention to complete shading (recommended to use double-layer shading cloth), and continuous treatment for 60-90 days can advance blooming by 1-2 months.
3. Techniques for Delaying Blooming
Supplement artificial light every day to make the total light reach 14 hours, recommended to use 6500K full-spectrum plant lights, 30cm away from the plant, which can effectively delay the blooming period by 30-45 days.
II. Scientific Fertilization Scheme for Blooming Period
1. Principle of Prohibiting Fertilization During Blooming Period
The root sensitivity increases by 3 times during the flowering period, and fertilization at this time can easily cause ionic concentration imbalance. It is recommended to stop fertilizing when the flowers first bloom and supplement with a special nutrient solution after the flowers fade.
2. Techniques for Applying Flower-Promoting Fertilizer
Use phosphorus and potassium fertilizers during the budding period: - Bone meal should be buried 5cm deep at the edge of the pot, with an amount of about 15g for every 15cm pot diameter - Dilute monopotassium phosphate with a ratio of 1:1500, and water the roots once a week - Combined with foliar spraying (concentration 1:2000) for better results
3. Management of Flower Quantity Balance
For the phenomenon of crown bias caused by uneven light, targeted fertilization can be applied to the weak side: ① Rotate the pot to ensure even light exposure ② Spray 0.1% monopotassium phosphate solution separately ③ Combine with 180-degree rotation once a week
By scientifically adjusting the photoperiod and precise fertilization, not only can the ornamental period of Schlumbergera be extended, but a full and beautiful flower shape can also be formed. It is recommended to combine regular pruning of withered flowers and maintaining a suitable temperature of 15-25°C, which can achieve a continuous flowering feast of 3-4 months.