The Reasons and Solutions for the Yellowing Leaves of Four O'clock Flowers
As fragrant spirits that bloom at night, the yellowing leaves of four o'clock flowers困扰 many gardening enthusiasts. The transition from green to yellow not only affects the ornamental value but also serves as a distress signal from the plant. This article will delve into the four major maintenance misconceptions and guide you step by step to restore the emerald luster of four o'clock flowers.
Misconceptions in Light Management
Consequences of Insufficient Light
Four o'clock flowers require 4-6 hours of scattered light daily, and prolonged placement in a dark environment can lead to the loss of chlorophyll. Typical symptoms include the yellowing of the edges of old leaves and the lightening of new leaves to a yellowish-green color.
Techniques for Scientific Light Supplement
It is recommended to use the "Morning Light Therapy": Move the potted plant to an east-facing balcony to receive the gentle morning light from 8-10 am. In summer, use a shading net to filter the intense midday sunlight, maintaining a 30% shading rate.
Misconceptions in Fertilization Operations
Remediation Plan for Excessive Fertilization
Excessive nitrogen fertilizer can cause the tips of leaves to scorch. Immediate action should be taken with the "Triple Flush Method": Water the potting soil thoroughly with clean water for three consecutive days, combined with loosening the soil to increase aeration. It is suggested to switch to slow-release fertilizer, applying 15-20 pellets every quarter.
Iron deficiency chlorosis is characterized by the loss of green between the veins of the leaves, and iron chelate fertilizer (diluted 1000 times) can be sprayed once a month. Organic fertilizer like fermented banana peel liquid, rich in potassium, can enhance disease resistance.
Misconceptions in Water Control
Scientific Watering Schedule
Use the "Finger Joint Detection Method": Water when the second finger joint inserted into the soil feels dry. Water every 3-4 days in spring and autumn, twice a day in summer (morning and evening), and extend to every 7-10 days in winter.
Optimization of Drainage System
It is recommended to place a 3cm layer of ceramic stones at the bottom of the pot, mixed with perlite (2:1 ratio) to improve the soil. When yellowing leaves due to waterlogging occur, temporarily replace with coarse sand for cultivation, and switch back to nutrient-rich soil after new roots have sprouted.
Misconceptions in Temperature Adjustment
Ideal Temperature Range
Four o'clock flowers grow best in temperatures between 18-28°C. When temperatures exceed 32°C, the "Three Degrees Cooling Method" should be initiated: Cool down 3°C with air conditioning from 10-15 every day, spray the leaf surface to cool down 3°C, and wrap the pot with a damp cloth to cool down 3°C.
Building a Ventilation System
Use a circulating fan to maintain air circulation, taking care to avoid direct blows on the plant. In winter, a simple insulation shed can be made: Use PVC pipes to build a framework and cover it with 70% transparent agricultural film.
By precisely controlling the four key elements of light, nutrition, water, and temperature, and by regularly observing the condition of the leaves, the yellowing leaf problem of four o'clock flowers can be fundamentally resolved. It is recommended to conduct a "Leaf Health Check" every month, record the trend of leaf color changes, and adjust the maintenance plan in a timely manner to keep your four o'clock flowers maintaining their emerald luster throughout the year.