How to care for gardenia after buying it
Having trouble keeping your newly purchased gardenia pot plant alive? As a classic courtyard plant with a rich fragrance, the care during the acclimatization period of gardenia directly affects the quality of subsequent flowering. This article整理出 four core maintenance methods for newly purchased plants, with detailed illustrations for each key step to help you easily cultivate lush green leaves and pristine white flowers.
One, Potting Soil Reset and Root Treatment
Substrate Proportion Optimization Scheme
Original pot soil often has problems such as compaction or insufficient fertility. It is recommended to use a golden ratio of peat soil: decomposed leaf soil: river sand = 5:3:2, with a pH value controlled between 5.5-6.5 slightly acidic range. Mix 10g of decomposed sheep manure as a base fertilizer for every liter of substrate to ensure the continuous release of nutrients.
Key Operations for Disinfection and Sterilization
New soil needs to be spread 3cm thick and exposed to the sun for 3 days, or use a 800-fold solution of carbendazim to water thoroughly for disinfection. When repotting, gently shake the original soil, trim the blackened roots, and soak in a root powder solution for 20 minutes to effectively prevent root rot.
Two, Progressive Light Adjustment
Shading Management During Acclimatization Period
Place it near the east-facing window for the first two weeks, receiving 3 hours of soft morning light. Use a shade cloth with 50% shading to filter strong light and prevent new leaves from burning. After observing the new leaves unfolding, gradually extend to 5 hours of sunlight per day.
Three, Scientific Water and Fertilizer Management System
Root Watering and Daily Irrigation
Water immediately after repotting until water seeps from the bottom of the pot. Use the bamboo stake test method: insert into the soil for 5 minutes and pull out, water when the top 2cm is dry. Combine with morning and evening foliar sprays to maintain an environmental humidity of 65%-75%.
Nutrient Supplement Schedule
In the germination stage, apply a balanced NPK fertilizer (20-20-20) every half month, and switch to a high-phosphorus fertilizer (10-30-20) during the bud stage. Add iron sulfate solution during the growing season from May to July to prevent iron deficiency yellowing of leaves. Stop fertilizing in winter to allow the roots to rest.
Through systematic maintenance management, the survival rate of newly purchased gardenias can reach over 95%. Pay special attention to pruning the remaining flowers in time after blooming to retain nutrients and promote secondary flowering. Regularly rotate the pot to ensure even light exposure, combined with a loose and breathable cultivation substrate, you will harvest continuously blooming fragrant gardenias.