Cultivation and Management Techniques of Osmanthus
As one of the top ten famous flowers in Chinese tradition, osmanthus not only carries cultural connotations but is also highly favored for its unique fragrance and practical value. Mastering scientific planting methods can make the golden osmanthus flowers emit a more enduring fragrance. This article will analyze the key points of osmanthus cultivation in home gardens from propagation to management.
Osmanthus Propagation and Cultivation Technique System
Various Propagation Methods
Cutting is the mainstream propagation method, and it is recommended to select semi-woody new branches, retaining 3 pairs of bud points. Grafting is suitable for variety improvement, with the rootstock often being choosen as the Chinese fringe tree. The air-layering method can achieve a survival rate of up to 90%, and after ring stripping treatment in spring and autumn, wrapping the moss promotes root growth.
Substrate Proportion Optimization
For potted plants, it is suggested to use a mixture of humus soil, garden soil, and vermiculite in a ratio of 4:3:3. For ground planting, it is necessary to deeply turn the soil 40 cm. Mix 5kg of decomposed sheep manure into each cubic meter of substrate, combined with 50g of superphosphate to adjust the pH to slightly acidic (5.5-6.5).
Transplanting and Planting Standards
When transplanting with a soil ball, retain a root zone with a diameter of 30cm. The planting hole should be 50% larger than the soil ball. After planting, set up a sunshade net for 20 days, and spray water daily to keep the leaves moist. After new buds sprout, transition to routine management.
Full Cycle Maintenance Management System
Sunlight Control Strategy
Seedlings require 50% shade, and adult trees need to ensure 4 hours of direct sunlight per day. From 10:00 to 15:00 in the summer, set up a sunshade shed, and in winter, full sun care can enhance cold resistance.
Intelligent Water Management
In the spring sprouting period, maintain soil moisture at 60%. Moderate water control is needed 20 days before the flowering period. Using a drip irrigation system can save 30% of water, and during the rainy season, promptly dredge the drainage ditches to avoid waterlogging for more than 2 hours.
Accurate Fertilization Plan
In March, apply high-nitrogen fertilizer (N-P-K=20-5-5), in June switch to balanced fertilizer (15-15-15), and in September, apply monopotassium phosphate to promote flowering. Every autumn, apply 5kg/㎡ of organic fertilizer to improve the soil.
Pruning and Shaping Techniques
After flowering, prune to remove inner branches and crossing branches, and retain strong spring shoots as the flowering mother branches for the next year. Shaping pruning should be done during the dormant period, maintaining a crown ventilation and light transmission rate of over 40%.
Through a scientific cultivation system and meticulous management, the osmanthus tree can achieve an annual growth of 80-120cm. Regularly monitor the leaf SPAD value to maintain it within the range of 45-55, and adjust the maintenance plan in combination with the phenological period, allowing the courtyard to be filled with the intoxicating fragrance of osmanthus all year round.