Is bougainvillea a kind of plum blossom?
Every winter and spring, you can always see gorgeous bougainvillea blooming in the streets and alleys. This plant, known as the "Southern Beauty", is often mistaken for a member of the Plum Blossom family. Today, we will reveal the true identity of Bougainvillea and share our exclusive conservation tips for making this tropical flower bloom all year round. What is the difference between bougainvillea and plum blossoms? Although their names all bear the word "mei", Bougainvillea spectabilis and plum blossoms in the rose family belong to completely different plant families. As a representative of the leaf flower genus of the Mirabilaceae family, its gorgeous "petals" are actually specialized bracts, and the real small flowers are hidden in the center of the bracts. Its tropical origin in Brazil makes it have completely different growth habits from plum blossoms, making it more suitable for cultivation in warm regions. The best viewing period and flowering control of bougainvillea Under the natural state, the full flowering period of bougainvillea is concentrated from November to June of the following year, especially around the Spring Festival. However, through scientific management, the landscape effect of "seeing flowers on the moon" can be completely achieved. Horticulturists in Guangdong, Fujian and other places successfully make plants bloom continuously in different seasons through light and moisture regulation. Three core elements of triangular plum blossom conservation Sunshine: Photosynthetic code of tropical plants at least 6 hours a day Direct light is flowering protection, it is recommended to south balcony or open cultivation. Proper shade at noon in summer can prevent leaf burns, but the total light should be ensured. In winter, fill light can be used to maintain light intensity in northern areas. Water control: The artistic flower bud differentiation period of precise watering requires about 20 days of water control treatment. Wait until the leaves are slightly wilted before watering thoroughly. Cycle three times can effectively promote flowering. Maintain the principle of "moistening but not wetting" in daily maintenance, and use finger soil testing to judge watering timing. Pruning: Balancing shape and blooming flowers, cut off the branches in time after flowering, retaining 2-3 bud points. Regularly cut inner branches and cross branches to maintain ventilation and light transmission. When modeling, you can use its rattan characteristics to make a flower corridor or waterfall shape, which is re-cut and shaped from March to April every year.
Mastering these maintenance tips, even novices can make bougainvillea a resident star in their own courtyard. It is worth noting that using potassium dihydrogen phosphate for foliar topdressing, combined with appropriate temperature difference stimulation, can also promote the bract color to become more colorful. In the northern region, it is necessary to enter the house for maintenance in winter, and it can be safely wintering by keeping it above 10℃.