Does海棠 need more watering when it blooms?
Whenever海棠 is in full bloom, flower enthusiasts are always confused about watering issues. This traditional flower, which combines ornamental and medicinal value, has its watering management directly affecting the quality of blooming and the health of the plant. Mastering the correct watering rhythm can not only avoid the risk of falling flowers and buds but also bring vitality back to withered plants.
Three principles of watering during the blooming period
Relationship between water requirement and blooming stage
Soil moisture should be maintained at about 50% during the budding stage, which can be checked by inserting a finger 2 centimeters into the soil surface. The water requirement decreases during the full bloom stage, and excessive watering at this time can lead to root suffocation. It is recommended to keep the topsoil slightly dry.
Precise watering techniques
Use a long-spouted kettle to slowly pour water along the pot wall to avoid冲击 the flower buds with water flow. 8-10 a.m. is the best time for watering, as the water temperature is similar to the soil temperature, which is beneficial for plant absorption.
Emergency plan for dehydrated plants
Stage-by-stage watering method
When dehydration is first detected, use a spray bottle to moisten the leaves. After 2 hours, pour in 1/3 of the total amount of clear water, and water the remaining amount the next day. Avoid direct heavy watering to prevent cell wall rupture.
Adjustment of ambient humidity
Place a water basin or wet pebbles around the plant, combined with 3 times of leaf surface spraying per day (avoiding noon), can quickly increase the humidity of the small environment to about 60%.
Four-season watering schedule
Spring and autumn maintenance rhythm
When the temperature is between 15-25℃, check the soil moisture every 72 hours. Using the immersion pot method to water ensures even absorption of water by deep roots, with each immersion not exceeding 15 minutes.
Special treatment in summer and winter
In summer, check the pot soil in the morning and evening, and use a sunshade net. In winter dormancy, use warm water (about 25℃) to water, which can stimulate root activity.
Caution of maintenance mistakes
Prevention of waterlogging and root rot
Choose breathable containers like red pottery and place a 3 cm thick layer of ceramic stones at the bottom of the pot. Stop watering immediately when leaves turn yellow and use a bamboo skewer to pierce holes in the potting soil to accelerate water evaporation.
By observing the firmness of the leaves and the fullness of the flower buds, one can accurately judge the water condition of海棠. When new leaves show a waxy luster and the flower stems are upright, it indicates that the watering management is just right. Continuously monitor the changes in plant condition and adjust the maintenance strategy according to seasonal characteristics to make海棠 bloom beautifully year after year.