How to Care for Baby's Breath
As a much sought-after cut flower plant in the floral art world, Baby's Breath captures the hearts of many flower enthusiasts with its starry-like flowers. To keep this romantic touch blooming continuously, scientific care and management are crucial, especially during the critical flowering stage which requires careful attention.
Complete Care Guide for Baby's Breath Throughout the Seasons
Light Management: Sunlight to Control Flowering Period
As a typical long-day plant, it requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Full sunlight care is possible in spring and autumn, while 30% shading is needed at noon in summer. In winter, it is recommended to use plant grow lights to extend the lighting time to 10 hours, which can advance the flowering period. Remember to rotate the pot regularly to ensure even light exposure and prevent stems from falling over.
Water Control: Dry-Wet Cycle Rule
Adopt the "water when dry" method, watering thoroughly when the soil surface turns white. Maintain 60%-70% humidity during the growing season, with the help of a ceramic stone tray. Reduce watering frequency to once a week after the bud formation stage, as overwatering during the bloom stage can cause brown spots on the petals.
Temperature Regulation: Day-Night Temperature Difference Promotes Flowering
An ideal environment with a day temperature of 25-30°C and a night temperature of 10-15°C is best. Move it to a north-facing balcony when the temperature exceeds 35°C in summer, and use misting to cool down. When the temperature drops below 5°C in winter, move it indoors and cover the pot soil with a thermal film to prevent root frostbite.
Fertilizer Ratio: Customized for Growth Stages
Start applying a compound fertilizer with a ratio of 15-5-30 15 days after planting, once every 10 days. Switch to a high-phosphorus and potassium fertilizer (10-30-20) during the bud formation stage, along with foliar application of potassium dihydrogen phosphate (1:1000). Stop applying nitrogen 45 days before flowering to avoid excessive growth affecting the quality of flowering.
Flowering Period Fertilizing Guide
During the flowering period, a moderate amount of phosphorus and potassium fertilizer can be added to maintain the fullness of the flowers. It is recommended to use a special flower nutrient solution (diluted to half the standard concentration), applied every two weeks along the edge of the pot. Avoid using fresh and concentrated fertilizers, and after fertilizing, promptly loosen the soil to promote absorption. If there is a phenomenon of blossom drop, stop fertilizing immediately and rinse the pot soil with clean water.
Through scientific management of light, water, temperature, and fertilizer, Baby's Breath can bloom continuously for 3-4 months. It is recommended to adjust the care plan flexibly based on the plant's condition, regularly prune the spent flowers, and supplement trace elements to keep this "sea of stars" lighting up your living space for a long time.