How to Care for a Newly Purchased Fortune Tree
As an indoor green plant symbolizing good luck, the fortune tree is favored for its upright株型 and the auspicious meaning of attracting wealth. However, special care is needed for a newly acquired fortune tree to adapt to the environment smoothly. This article will detail eight key care elements, from temperature control to daily maintenance.
1. Management During the Acclimation Period
1.1 Temperature Control Techniques
Merchants often place the fortune tree in a low-temperature environment of 15-18°C to induce dormancy. It is recommended to move it to a constant 25°C space to wake up the plant. In winter, cover the main stem with insulating film, and avoid direct air conditioning in summer to prevent a temperature difference of more than 5°C.
1.2 Lighting Transition Plan
For the first two weeks, place it in a scattered light environment, receiving 3-4 hours of morning light daily, and avoid strong midday sunlight that can burn the leaves. Gradually increase to 6 hours of light after new buds sprout.
2. Potting Operation Standards
2.1 Best Time for Repotting
It is recommended to repot 7-10 days after receiving the plant, choosing a stable morning for the operation. Retain 1/3 of the original soil to protect the roots, and the new pot diameter should be at least 5cm larger than the original pot.
2.2 Scientific Soil Mixture
Use a mixed matrix of 5 parts of decomposed leaf soil, 3 parts of river sand, and 2 parts of pearl rock, with a 3cm layer of ceramsite at the bottom for drainage. After repotting, water thoroughly to settle the roots and place it in a ventilated and shaded area for 1 week to recover.
3. Key Points of Water Management
3.1 Judging the Watering Cycle
Bamboo stake method: Insert a dry bamboo stake 2/3 into the potting soil, leave it for 5 minutes, and if no soil sticks to it, it's time to water. Water every 7-10 days in spring and autumn, and every 5-7 days in summer.
3.2 Water Control During Special Periods
If yellow leaves are found, stop watering immediately and loosen the soil, and use a fan at a low setting to increase ventilation. In winter, the water temperature must be the same as the room temperature to avoid stimulating the roots with cold water.
4. Secrets of Shaping Maintenance
4.1 Scientific Pruning Rules
Retain 3-5 strong branches on the main stem, and cut off weak and crossed branches. Make the cut 0.5cm away from the bud point at a 45-degree angle and apply wood ash to prevent infection.
4.2 Fertilizing Time Points
Start fertilizing 2 months after repotting, applying a diluted 1000x foliar plant nutrient solution every 15 days in spring and summer, and switching to phosphorus-potassium fertilizer in autumn and winter to enhance cold resistance.
Through systematic care and management, the survival rate of a newly purchased fortune tree can reach over 90%. It is recommended to clean the leaf surface with a damp cloth monthly, regularly rotate the pot to ensure even light exposure, and combine the correct care methods to keep your fortune tree vibrant.