How Long Does Osmanthus Blossom Last?
As one of the top ten famous flowers in Chinese tradition, osmanthus is deeply loved for its rich fragrance and unique floral charm. Every autumn, the clusters of golden and silver flowers on the branches always inspire countless scholars and literati with poetic imagination. But do you really understand the blooming patterns of this fragrant flower? This article will delve into the blooming cycle of osmanthus and share professional pre-blooming management techniques.
Analysis of Osmanthus Blossom Duration
The natural blooming period of common osmanthus varieties is concentrated in September to the first ten days of October, with the peak blooming period lasting about 20-25 days. Special varieties like the four-season osmanthus can bloom in multiple seasons throughout the year with artificial regulation, and can bloom cumulatively for up to six months under scientific care. The key factors affecting the blooming duration include:
1. Differences in Variety Characteristics
Golden osmanthus and silver osmanthus, etc., have a concentrated flowering amount in a single season, while the blooming period of red osmanthus is slightly later but more colorful. The four-season osmanthus achieves a blooming cycle of 3-4 times a year through continuous bud differentiation.
2. Influence of Regional Climate
The natural blooming period is best in the Yangtze River Valley, while the northern regions require greenhouse regulation. When the day-night temperature difference reaches 8-10°C, the synthesis of fragrant substances is most active.
Three-Part Management Strategy Before Osmanthus Blossom
Light Control Strategy
It is necessary to ensure 6 hours of direct sunlight during the bud differentiation period, and avoid the strong midday sunlight in the peak summer. By rotating the flower pot to achieve all-around lighting, the quality of flower buds can be improved by 30%.
Scientific Fertilization Scheme
Apply high-phosphorus and potassium compound fertilizer (N-P-K=1:3:2) starting 60 days before flowering, and top-dress with bone meal solution every 15 days. Spraying 0.2% potassium dihydrogen phosphate on the leaves can enhance the resistance of flower buds.
Water Management Points
Keep the soil moisture at 60-70%, and use the immersion pot method to water to avoid surface compaction. When the air humidity is below 50%, spray moisture in the morning and evening every day, taking care to avoid the full bloom period.
Through the above management measures, the blooming period can be effectively extended by 15-20 days. After flowering, trim the remaining flowers in time to retain nutrients and promote secondary flowering. Mastering the growth patterns of osmanthus will allow this sweet autumn fragrance to linger long.