How to Stimulate New Branches in Old Jasmine Stubs
As an enthusiast of old jasmine stubs that have been maintained for many years, it is common to encounter the problem of aging plants and the difficulty of germinating new buds. Through years of practical experience, it has been verified that systematic maintenance and management can effectively awaken dormant buds, allowing old stubs to regain vibrant growth. Below are five dimensions to analyze key cultivation techniques.
Optimization of Potting Soil Environment
1.1 Scientific Soil Mixture Ratio
Jasmine roots require high soil permeability; it is recommended to use a golden ratio of 40% peat soil + 30% decomposed leaf soil + 20% river sand + 10% perlite. New soil should be changed every spring to ensure the substrate is loose and well-ventilated.
1.2 Precise pH Control
Regularly test the soil with pH test paper to maintain a slightly acidic environment of 5.5-6.5. Watering with a diluted solution of iron sulfate (1:1000) once a month can effectively improve alkaline compacted soil issues.
Fine Management of Water
2.1 Dry and Wet Cycle Control
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged in spring and autumn, water twice a day in summer, and once a week in winter. Use the bamboo stake method to test: insert into the potting soil for 3 minutes, slightly moist is the best state.
2.2 Atomizing Moistening Skills
Equip with a spray bottle with a 0.5mm diameter nozzle and spray the leaves before 10 am daily, focusing on the branches and bud points. Maintaining humidity between 60%-70% can promote the germination of hidden buds.
Precise Supply of Nutrition
3.1 Criteria for Base Fertilizer Selection
Bury decomposed sheep manure (15g per liter of soil) as a base fertilizer when repotting, and supplement phosphorus with bone meal. Avoid using uncomposted fertilizer to prevent root burn.
3.2 Fertilization Cycle Management
Apply jasmine special fertilizer (N-P-K=15-30-15) every 10 days during the growing period, diluted with water at a ratio of 1:1500. Apply additional potassium dihydrogen phosphate foliar fertilizer during the budding period.
Shaping and Pruning Strategies
4.1 Timing of Pruning
The best pruning period is from after the惊蛰 (Jingzhe) to before 清明 (Qingming), preferably on a sunny morning. Retain 3-5 main branches on the trunk, leaving 2-3 full bud points on each branch.
4.2 Wound Protection Treatment
Immediately apply horticultural healing agent after pruning, and wrap the cut with plastic wrap if the diameter is greater than 1cm. Pruning tools need to be disinfected with 75% alcohol.
Through the above systematic maintenance, new buds usually emerge within 2-3 weeks. The key is to grasp the three major elements of soil replacement and root pruning, water and fertilizer coordination, and light control. It is recommended to use tools such as thermometers and hygrometers for data-based management, which can achieve a success rate of over 90%.