How to Care for海棠 Flowers
As a traditional famous flower in China,海棠 flowers are deeply loved by gardening enthusiasts for their beautiful and droplet-like blooms and elegant tree posture. To make海棠 flowers bloom in a dazzling manner, it is necessary to master scientific care methods and understand their growth patterns. This article will provide a detailed analysis of the cultivation secrets of海棠 flowers, from basic care to flowering period regulation.
Three-Part Scientific Care for海棠 Flowers
Light Management Techniques
海棠 flowers are typical sun-loving plants and require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Full sun care is possible during spring and autumn, while shade netting should be used to filter strong light between 11-3 pm in summer. In winter, they can be moved to a south-facing enclosed balcony to get ample scattered light through double-layered glass.
Smart Watering System
Follow the "wet when dry" principle and use the finger test to determine soil moisture: water thoroughly when the top 2 cm of soil is dry. It is recommended to use rainwater or tap water that has been standing for 3 days, and the water temperature in winter should be the same as the room temperature. Air humidity should be maintained between 50-70%, which can be adjusted using a misting humidifier.
Precise Fertilization Plan
Use a balanced fertilizer (20-20-20) during the growing period from March to May, applying 1500 times liquid fertilizer every 10 days. Switch to a high-phosphorus fertilizer (10-30-20) during the budding stage to promote bud differentiation. Apply organic fertilizers like bone meal before winter dormancy, adding 50-100 grams per pot as a base fertilizer.
Guide to Regulating the Flowering Period of海棠 Flowers
Characteristics of Natural Flowering Period
Conventional varieties bloom mainly in April and May, with海棠 flowers starting to bloom in mid-March and Xifu海棠 following in early April. Siyi海棠 can bloom throughout the year but requires a constant temperature of 15-25°C. In high-altitude areas, the flowering period is usually 15-20 days later than in the plains.
Artificial Regulation Techniques
Flowering period can be adjusted through temperature control: to bloom earlier, apply a 15-20°C forcing treatment in January, and to delay blooming, maintain a low temperature of 10°C. Combined with light regulation, using plant grow lights to extend daily lighting by 4 hours can promote bud differentiation 2-3 weeks earlier.
By mastering the correct care methods, not only can海棠 flowers bloom every year, but precise flowering period control can also be achieved through scientific management. It is recommended to adjust the care plan flexibly based on the growth status of the plant, regularly observe the leaf color and bud development, and allow this "Flower in the贵妃" to show its most perfect posture.