When to Fertilize Gardenias
Gardenias, as common ornamental flowers in gardens, their fertilization management directly affects the quality of blooming. Scientific fertilization not only promotes robust plant growth but can also extend the blooming period and enhance the fragrance of the flowers. This article will systematically analyze the golden timing and practical techniques for fertilizing gardenias.
One, Basic Fertilization Stage
1.1 Key Points for Applying Base Fertilizer
Ample base fertilizer is needed before planting, recommended to use a mixture of decomposed sheep manure and soybean cake fertilizer (2:1 ratio), with an application rate of 3-5 kilograms per square meter. Note to lay a 5cm layer of plain soil as an isolation layer between the roots and fertilizer to avoid root burn.
1.2 Optimization of Substrate Proportions
Mixing perlite, decomposed leaf soil, and base fertilizer (proportion 4:5:1) can ensure good drainage and continuously release nutrients. Maintaining a pH value between 5.5-6.5 is most beneficial for nutrient absorption.
Two, Growth Top-dressing Strategy
2.1 Nutrient Management During the Growth Period
During the new shoot germination period from March to May, apply a diluted 1000-fold balanced NPK water-soluble fertilizer (EC value 1.2-1.5mS/cm) every 10 days. Combine with foliar application of chelated iron fertilizer to prevent yellow leaf disease.
2.2 Bud Differentiation Control
Switch to a high-phosphorus formula fertilizer (N-P-K=10-30-10) at the beginning of June, combined with weekly application of potassium dihydrogen phosphate (800-fold solution) to promote bud formation. Stop fertilizing when the bud formation rate reaches 70%.
Three, Special Care During the Blooming Period
3.1 Nutrient Storage BeforeBlooming
Apply seaweed fertilizer 15 days before the buds appear to supplement trace elements, combined with the application of slow-release bone meal (50g per plant), which can extend the single flower period by 2-3 days and increase petal thickness.
3.2 Fertilization Control Techniques During Full Bloom
Stop root fertilization during the flowering period and switch to weekly foliar application of 0.1% boric acid solution to enhance the flower's resistance to rain and maintain the upright形态 of the petals.
Four, Key Points for Repotting and Supplementing Fertilizer
Every 2-3 years when repotting, based on retaining 1/3 of the protective soil, add decomposed pine needles (accounting for 15%) to improve acidity. Start applying potassium fulvate (2000-fold solution) 20 days after repotting to promote new root development.
Mastering the four key stages of fertilizing gardenias and adjusting the fertilization plan based on the actual growth state of the plant can extend the blooming period to over 45 days. It is recommended to establish a fertilization log, recording the time, type, and plant response of each fertilization, gradually forming an individualized care plan.