Why Does the Gentlemen's Orchid Not Grow Well
As a star variety of indoor green plants, the gentlemen's orchid is deeply loved for its upright leaf posture and elegant temperament. However, many plant enthusiasts have found that their gentlemen's orchids grow slowly and their leaves are dull and lackluster. Today, we will analyze the key factors affecting the growth of gentlemen's orchids from a professional perspective to help you create a vibrant green landscape.
I. Root Health: Complete Guide to Potting
1.1 Potting Cycle and Timing
It is recommended to perform potting operations every spring, from March to April, as the plants are in the growth and germination stage and can quickly adapt to the new environment. Plants that have not been repotted for more than two years will form a 'root cage' that severely affects nutrient absorption.
1.2 Substrate Preparation Scheme
It is recommended to use a golden ratio of decomposed leaf soil: pine needles: river sand = 5:3:2, with the addition of 5% bone meal to increase calcium. Use pH test paper to ensure the soil pH is between 6.0-6.5, which is the most suitable growth environment for gentlemen's orchids.
II. Light Control: Optimization Guide for Photosynthesis
Ensure 3-4 hours of scattered light every day, and use a 40% shade net to adjust. In winter, the plant can be exposed to full sunlight, while in summer, shading is required from 10:00 to 15:00. Regularly rotate the pot to ensure even light distribution on the leaves and avoid the 'tilting head' phenomenon.
III. Nutritional Supply: Complete Analysis of Scientific Fertilization
3.1 Fertilization Scheme During the Growth Period
During the peak growth season from April to October, alternate every 15 days between diluted 1000 times cake fertilizer water (high in nitrogen) and phosphorus potassium solution (phosphorus-potassium ratio of 1:2). Note that after fertilization, water should be poured back the next day to prevent root damage from fertilizer.
3.2 Key Points for Maintenance During Dormancy
Stop fertilizing when the temperature in winter is below 15°C and keep the substrate slightly dry. At this time, you can spray a nutrient solution containing trace elements once a month on the leaves, keeping the concentration between 0.1%-0.2%.
IV. Root Diagnosis and Treatment: Manual for Disease Control
If black-brown rotten roots are found during potting, they should be immediately trimmed with a sterilized scissor, and the wound should be covered with wood ash. For severe root rot cases, it is recommended to soak in a 0.1% potassium permanganate solution for 20 minutes, then dry and plant in new substrate.
Through systematic maintenance management, 90% of gentlemen's orchids with slow growth can recover within 3 months. Regularly observe the leaf condition, maintain good ventilation, and配合 scientific watering and fertilization management, you will certainly harvest a high-quality gentlemen's orchid with glossy leaves and blooming flowers year after year.