How to Care for Newly Purchased Peonies
How to nurture newly acquired peonies for successful survival? As a traditional famous flower known for its national color and fragrance, the care of peonies requires mastering specific techniques. This article will systematically analyze the five key points of caring for newly purchased peonies, from environmental control to daily management, helping you cultivate luxurious and elegant peony flowers with ease.
One, Temperature Environment Management
1. Acclimation Temperature Control
Peonies are temperate flowers, with the optimal growth temperature between 15-20℃. New plants need to be kept in a shaded environment around 15℃ for 2-3 days to adapt, avoiding direct exposure to temperatures above 30℃. They can be maintained outdoors in spring and autumn, and require shading and cooling in summer.
2. Seasonal Regulation Techniques
Maintaining a low temperature of 5-10℃ during the winter dormancy period is beneficial for the differentiation of flower buds the following year. Temperature regulation can be achieved by covering with pine needles or setting up a simple greenhouse to ensure the plants survive the winter safely.
Two, Soil System Optimization
1. Substrate Treatment Standards
Remove surface decorations with a bamboo skewer and disinfect the soil with a 800x solution of carbendazim. The ideal growing medium should consist of: 60% humus soil + 30% coarse sand + 10% bone meal, with a pH value of 6.5-7.0, slightly alkaline.
2. Drainage System Construction
Place a 5cm layer of ceramic stones at the bottom of the pot as a drainage layer, along with a pot that has ≥6 drainage holes. It is recommended to use purple sand or earthenware pots, avoiding glazed porcelain pots that can affect breathability.
Three, Scientific Water and Fertilizer Management
1. Golden Rule of Watering
Keep the soil slightly moist (about 40% water content) during the acclimation period, and water along the pot edges with a fine-mist spray when the topsoil is dry to 1cm. Follow the principle of 'watering when dry and moist when seen' during the growing period, and mist in the morning and evening in summer to increase humidity.
Four, Special Period Care
1. Yellow Leaf Treatment Plan
Yellow leaves caused by transportation damage should be promptly cut off and the wounds treated with wood ash. Continuous yellowing requires checking: ① whether there is积水 in the roots ② whether the light is too strong ③ whether there is red spider damage.
2. Potting Change Guide
It is recommended to repot in autumn, from September to October, retaining 1/3 of the protective soil. After repotting, place the plant in a scattered light environment for 10 days, then transfer to regular management once new roots have sprouted.
Through systematic care and management, newly purchased peonies can adapt to the environment within one month. The key is to grasp the principle of 'controlling water and fertilizer during the acclimation period and focusing on nutrition during the growing period', along with appropriate light and temperature control, even beginners can make peonies bloom year after year. It is recommended to regularly observe the leaf condition and adjust the care plan in a timely manner, allowing this king of flowers to thrive in your home.