Characteristics of Plum Blossom
In the cold winter when all things are silent, only plum blossoms stand proudly on the branches and become the spiritual totem written by literati and literati. What kind of life code does this plant, known as the "three friends of the cold year"? We will reveal its survival wisdom that spans thousands of years through three dimensions: morphological structure, growth rules and cultivation points. Unique morphology, structure, branches and leaf characteristics The adult plum tree can reach 4-10 meters long, the light gray bark forms a natural protective layer, and the twigs are green and rich in chlorophyll. The edges of the ovate leaves are arranged in a zigzag manner. This special structure can effectively reduce water evaporation, and the gray-green color can reflect strong light. Flower ornamental characteristics The pink corolla with a diameter of 2- 2.5 cm consists of 5 petals, and the calyx is bell-shaped to protect young organs. It is worth noting that plum blossoms have a unique phenomenon of flowers first and leaves later. This evolutionary strategy allows it to seize the opportunity of pollination in early spring. Phenological growth regularity Annual growth cycle As a typical temperate plant, plum blossoms start the deciduous mechanism in autumn and store nutrients through dormancy. 2-3 The monthly flower buds break through the low temperature limit and bloom. After the flowering period ends, the new leaves gradually stretch, forming a unique landscape of "fading flowers, red green apricots and small." During fruit development, the spherical stone fruit enters the expansion period in May, and the yellow-white peel wraps the sweet and sour flesh. Interestingly, plum blossoms have the phenomenon of "flowers but not fruit", and the fruit setting rate needs to be improved by manual pollination or allocation of pollinated trees. Although the key points of environmental control of the scientific cultivation system can withstand low temperatures of-15℃, flower bud differentiation requires cold stimulation of 10-20℃. It is recommended to adopt the maintenance strategy of "entering the cold room in winter and moving it outside in spring" to ensure the normal opening of the Spring Festival. Light management tips Direct light for more than 6 hours a day can promote flower bud formation. Moderate shade should be used to prevent leaf burns in summer. By adjusting the orientation of potted plants, the flowering volume of a single plant can be increased by more than 40%.
From Lu You's chanting of "one plum tree and one wild tree" to the widespread application of modern gardens, plum blossoms have always interpreted life resilience with their unique biological characteristics. Mastering its growth laws can not only make the courtyard fragrant, but also understand the survival philosophy of plants in dealing with nature.