What fertilizer to use during the blooming period of camellias
Proper nutrient management during the blooming season of camellias directly affects the quality of the flowers and the duration of the blooming period. Reasonably selecting the type of fertilizer and mastering the scientific application method can make the camellias present a plumper flower shape and a more lasting ornamental effect. This article will systematically explain different stages of fertilization strategies based on the law of nutritional needs.
Characteristics of nutrient needs during the blooming period
Critical period of flower bud differentiation
4-6 weeks before the morphological differentiation of flower buds, the plant's demand for phosphorus elements increases significantly. It is recommended to apply a solution of monopotassium phosphate (N-P-K=0-52-34), with a concentration of 800-1000 times, combined with matured bone meal as a base fertilizer to promote the formation of flower primordia.
Flower bud expansion stage
When the diameter of the flower bud reaches 0.5 cm, the proportion of potassium elements needs to be increased. Apply a compound fertilizer (N-P-K=10-30-20) every 15 days, combined with magnesium sulfate to supplement medium elements, which can increase the diameter of the flower bud by 15%-20%.
Detailed explanation of scientific fertilization methods
Root zone top-dressing operation
Make a 3cm shallow trench along the edge of the pot and bury slow-release fertilizer granules. It is recommended to use Ogreen A2 (N-P-K=9-14-19+MgO+Fe), with 2g added per liter of substrate. After covering with soil, water thoroughly to avoid direct contact between fertilizer and roots.
Foliar supplementation scheme
During the blooming period, use the golden ratio: urea (0.2%) + monopotassium phosphate (0.3%) + chelated calcium (0.1%) + rice vinegar (5‰), spray on the back of the leaves early in the morning. This formula can increase the photosynthetic efficiency of the leaves by 38% and extend the single flowering period by 5-7 days.
Regulation techniques for different growth stages
Management of woody spring shoots
When the base of the new shoots turns reddish-brown, immediately stop using nitrogen fertilizer and switch to high-potassium water-soluble fertilizer (N-P-K=5-15-45) for root irrigation. Combined with removing the top two tender leaves, it can promote the transfer of nutrients to flower buds.
Maintenance during the semi-dormant period
During the period when the plant stops growing, apply seaweed extract (500 times liquid) combined with potassium fulvate every month to maintain root activity. At this time, the concentration of the fertilizer should be reduced to 1/3 of the normal amount to avoid disrupting the dormant rhythm.
By accurately grasping the nutritional needs changes during the camellia's bud formation, expansion, and full bloom periods, combined with soil top-dressing and foliar supplementation, not only can the number of flowers be increased, but also high-quality camellias with a diameter of over 12cm can be shaped. Reasonably controlling the ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, combined with the supplementation of medium and trace elements, can extend the overall blooming period to 45-60 days.