The Steps of Repotting Gardenias
Gardenias, as aromatic evergreen shrubs, have their blooming quality and plant health directly affected by the repotting operation. Mastering scientific repotting techniques not only promotes root development but also prevents yellow leaves and bud drop. This article analyzes the repotting process from five practical dimensions and deeply discusses the key post-repotting care points.
I. Complete Steps for Repotting Gardenias
1. Choosing the Best Time for Repotting
It is recommended to repot from March to April or September to October every year, when the daily average temperature is stable at 18-25°C. Avoid the following three special periods: ① the high-temperature summer period (easy to dehydrate and wilt), ② the winter dormancy period (low root activity), and ③ the flowering period (high nutrient consumption). When white rootlets appear at the bottom of the plant's drainage hole, it is a signal to repot.
2. Potting Techniques and Root Treatment
Insert a gardening铲 into the pot wall to loosen the soil, then tilt the pot 45 degrees and gently tap the bottom. After removing the plant from the pot, use a bamboo skewer to remove 1/3 of the old soil and focus on pruning blackened and rotting roots (keeping the main root length ≥15cm). The treated roots need to be soaked in a 800-fold solution of carbendazim for 20 minutes to kill germs.
3. Substrate Ratio and Container Selection
Use the golden ratio for soil mixing: decomposed leaf soil 40% + red jade soil 30% + pine needle 20% + bone meal 10%. The new pot diameter should be 5-8cm larger than the original pot, preferably a coarse pottery pot or green mountain pot with good breathability, and a 3cm thick layer of ceramsite drainage at the bottom.
4. Scientific Planting Operation Standards
After filling in 1/3 of the substrate, spread the roots in an umbrella shape. Cover the soil to 2cm above the original soil mark and gently lift the plant to let the soil settle. Press the soil along the pot edge, leaving a 2cm space for watering, and avoid pressing too hard to prevent soil compaction.
II. Key Care Strategies After Repotting
1. Timing of the First Watering
Water thoroughly after planting until clear water flows out of the pot bottom. Use the immersion method to water more evenly: place the pot in a basin of water, with the water level reaching half the height of the pot, and soak for 15 minutes. Then maintain the substrate moist but not waterlogged, and water when the top 2cm of the surface is dry.
2. Environmental Control During the Acclimatization Period
Place the plant in a location with ample scattered light (light intensity of 3000-5000 lux) and care for 2 weeks, maintaining 60%-70% air humidity. You can create a small greenhouse by covering it with a transparent plastic bag and ventilate for 1 hour daily. Gradually increase the light after new buds sprout, with a transition period of about 7-10 days.
3. Nutrient Supplement Timing
Start fertilizing 30 days after repotting, initially using a diluted 2000-fold HB101 vitality formula every 10 days. After the new leaves fully unfold, switch to alternating use of monopotassium phosphate (1:1500) and ferrous sulfate (1:3000) to prevent chlorosis.
Through systematic repotting operations and scientific care management, the survival rate of gardenias can be increased to over 95%. Pay attention to the leaf color and growth rate and adjust the care plan in a timely manner. The first year after repotting may see a 30%-40% reduction in flowering, which is a normal phenomenon, and the plant will recover its vigorous flowering the following year.