How to Care for Dragon Claw Chrysanthemum
Do you know these? Let's take a look at the information about how to care for dragon claw chrysanthemum and the precautions for cultivating green plants and flowers.
Dragon claw chrysanthemum is a plant native to South Africa and has only entered China in recent years. This flower, with its appearance resembling dragon claws, is named accordingly. Although its name contains "chrysanthemum," it does not belong to the chrysanthemum family but to the aloe family. This plant not only has ornamental value but also has good medicinal value, including anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. Let's discuss the cultivation method for pot-grown dragon claw chrysanthemum.
1. Propagation Method
For pot-grown dragon claw chrysanthemum, the propagation method of cutting should be adopted. First, cut the leaves and then place them in a semi-shaded area to dry. Choose a sunny day to proceed with the cutting.
2. Soil Requirements
The soil should be fertile, loose and breathable, with good water retention and drainage. The pH value of the soil should be maintained between 6.8 and 7.0. Gardeners can mix their own nutrient soil, which should consist of humus soil, garden soil, and river sand in a ratio of 2:2:1. After mixing, disinfect with a formaldehyde solution, maintaining a concentration of 40%. After disinfection, seal the nutrient soil with plastic wrap for two days, then let it dry in the sun.
3. Watering and Fertilizing
Dragon claw chrysanthemum is drought-resistant but should not be lacking in water. Generally, watering once every half month is sufficient. Watering can be done in the early morning or in the evening. The principle of watering should be to water when the soil is dry and wet. In summer, in addition to watering the soil, some water can also be sprayed on the leaves of the dragon claw chrysanthemum to make them look more vibrant.
In the growth process of dragon claw chrysanthemum, main nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, as well as trace elements and organic fertilizers are indispensable. Fertilizing can be done by浇灌 liquid fertilizers or by foliar application. Spring and autumn are the peak growing seasons for dragon claw chrysanthemum, and fertilizing once every half month is sufficient. From November to the following March, which is the dormant period for dragon claw chrysanthemum, fertilizing is not necessary.
4. Light Requirements
Dragon claw chrysanthemum loves light and cannot be lacking in light during its growth process. If the potted dragon claw chrysanthemum is placed in a shaded area, it will affect the growth of the plant and the leaves will look very dull. Sufficient light supply allows the leaves to perform photosynthesis better, making the stems and leaves stronger.
5. Temperature Requirements
Dragon claw chrysanthemum prefers a warm environment. Hot summer weather with high temperatures is very suitable for the growth of dragon claw chrysanthemum. If the temperature reaches about 15 degrees Celsius, the plant will stop growing. If the temperature drops below 0 degrees Celsius, the plant will die. This plant is more suitable for cultivation in greenhouses in the north or indoors, as the weather in the north is relatively cold.
6. Regular Potting
Change the potting soil for the dragon claw chrysanthemum every one or two years. The season for potting is usually in spring, replacing it with new soil and a larger pot. After potting, water thoroughly and place the pot in a shaded area for cultivation. After a period of time, it will return to normal.
7. Pest and Disease Prevention
During the growth of dragon claw chrysanthemum, pests and diseases rarely occur. If black spot disease occurs in the seedling stage, you can use carbendazim, diluting the solution with water to make a 1000-fold spray. Spray once every half month, and three to four times a year is sufficient.
The above is a detailed introduction to how to care for dragon claw chrysanthemum and the precautions for its cultivation. Did you get it?