How to care for a newly purchased Clivia Miniata
As an elegant and stylish indoor ornamental plant, Clivia Miniata is popular for its upright leaves and beautiful flowers. However, many plant enthusiasts often face yellowing leaves and root rot due to improper care after purchasing. This article will systematically explain the correct handling process for a newly purchased Clivia Miniata, from root inspection to post-planting care.
One, Root Inspection and Treatment
1.1 Comprehensive Root Diagnosis
Immediately inspect the root condition after opening the packaging, focusing on three points: whether the main roots are full and elastic, the density of the fine roots, and whether there are transparent water stains on the root tips. Special attention should be paid to mechanical damage caused by transportation for online purchased plants, using a soft-bristle brush to gently sweep the roots to remove any organic matter residue.
1.2 Scientific Root Pruning and Disinfection
If blackened and rotting roots are found, they should be pruned at a 45-degree angle using scissors that have been disinfected with alcohol, retaining the healthy white roots. Prepare a 0.1% potassium permanganate solution (preferably light purple) and soak for 5 minutes, then dip in wood ash to accelerate wound healing. After disinfection, rinse with pure water to avoid chemical damage.
Two, Scientific Potting Techniques
2.1 Pot and Substrate Selection
It is recommended to use a purple sand pot or a green mountain pot, with a diameter 3-5cm larger than the root system. The substrate should be prepared in a ratio of pine needle soil: decomposed peanut shells: volcanic rock = 5:3:2, with a 3cm layer of ceramsite at the bottom for drainage. Before potting, drench the substrate with a fungicide solution (Benomyl 800x).
2.2 Key Points of Planting Operation
Hold the pseudobulb to let the roots hang naturally, fill the soil to 2cm from the pot opening. Gently tap the pot sides to compact the soil, avoiding pressing down hard. After planting,倾斜 the pot at a 45-degree angle without the leaves spreading apart is the best compactness.
Three, Detailed Care During the Post-Planting Period
3.1 Environmental Control Strategy
Place the plant in a scattered light and well-ventilated area for the first 3 days, maintaining a constant temperature of 18-25°C. Starting from the 4th day, spray daily to increase humidity, keeping it at 60%-70%. When using a transparent plastic bag over the pot, vent for 2 hours daily.
3.2 Water and Fertilizer Management Cycle
During the post-planting period, use the "wet-dry alternating" method, watering slowly along the pot edge when the soil surface turns white. After 15 days, apply a diluted orchid nutrient solution (1:2000), combined with brassinolactone to promote new root growth.
Through systematic inspection, scientific potting operations, and precise care and control, a newly purchased Clivia Miniata usually completes post-planting within 2-3 weeks. It is recommended to supplement with chelated iron fertilizer once a month to prevent yellowing leaves, and to change the potting soil every spring, keeping your Clivia Miniata in the best ornamental condition.