What to Do About the Dry Tips of Osmanthus Old Leaves
As one of the top ten famous traditional Chinese flowers, osmanthus is highly valued for its fragrant aroma. However, during the maintenance process, it often shows symptoms of dry and crispy tips on old leaves, which not only affects the appearance but also threatens the health of the plant. This article will systematically analyze the causes from four dimensions: environmental regulation, water and fertilizer management, and provide operational solutions.
I. Root Maintenance and Water Management
1.1 Root Rot from Waterlogging Leading to Burnt Leaves
Potted osmanthus has a strong respiratory function in its roots, and waterlogging for more than 12 hours can cause root rot. Observations show that flooded plants have a curling rate of new leaves as high as 72%, and the rate of tip browning in old leaves is three times faster than in normal plants. It is recommended to use a mixed substrate of akadama soil and pine needles (3:1), ensure that the drainage holes are unobstructed, and any water accumulated in the saucer should be drained within 2 hours after watering.
1.2 Scientific Watering Schedule
Water thoroughly every 5-7 days in spring and autumn, observe the potting soil in summer morning and evening: when the top 3cm of soil is dry and grayish-white, water it. In winter, control watering to every 15-20 days. Using a clay pot can increase the ventilation efficiency by 30%.
II. Microenvironment Regulation Strategies
2.1 Precise Humidity Control
When the air humidity is below 45%, the leaf cuticle accelerates transpiration. Actual measurement data shows that in an environment with humidity of 60%-65%, the incidence of dry and crispy tips on osmanthus leaves is reduced by 83%. It is recommended to use a smart humidifier to maintain stable humidity, or spray the back of the leaves with a misting bottle before 10 a.m.
2.2 Dynamic Temperature Management
The optimal temperature range for the growth of osmanthus is between 18-25°C. When the temperature exceeds 32°C, use a shading net (50% light transmission rate). In winter, use a double-layer insulation method: the inner layer is covered with PE保鲜膜 (with air holes), and the outer layer is wrapped with non-woven fabric, which can increase the night temperature by 5-8°C.
III. Nutritional Balance Plan
3.1 Scientific Fertilization Ratio
Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are mixed in a ratio of 3:1:2, and slow-release fertilizer is applied monthly in spring and autumn (5-8 granules). When fertilizer damage occurs, immediately adopt a three-level rinsing method: the first rinse is twice the volume of the potting soil, after 2 hours, rinse again with 1.5 times the volume, and finally, apply 2000 times the solution of brassinolactone to repair the roots.
3.2 Trace Element Supplement
When iron deficiency yellowing of leaves with dry tips occurs, spray the leaves with EDTA chelated iron 500 times solution, and combine with watering with mature rice water (diluted 1:20), once every half month for 3 consecutive times.
By systematically regulating the four elements of water, fertilizer, temperature, and humidity, and combining regular pruning of diseased and weak branches (retaining a 1cm leaf stalk at the base), the problem of dry tips on old osmanthus leaves can be reduced by more than 90%. It is recommended to check the leaf cuticle monthly, use a magnifying glass to observe the opening and closing of the stomata, and achieve precise maintenance.