The Cultivation Methods and Precautions for Japanese Flowering Crabapple
Let's explore the topics related to the cultivation methods and precautions for Japanese flowering crabapple, as well as some clever tips for beginners growing this plant, with the editor!
Recently, some gardening enthusiasts have inquired about how to grow Japanese flowering crabapple. First, it is essential to understand its characteristics. Also known as Japanese海棠 or Japanese quince, this plant is relatively easy to cultivate. The soil should be neutral or slightly acidic. Japanese flowering crabapple thrives in moist, sunny conditions, with an optimal growth temperature of 20-25°C. Below are some guidelines on soil, sunlight, temperature, and water for cultivating Japanese flowering crabapple.
I. Soil
Japanese flowering crabapple can adapt to the climate and soil throughout the country, but neutral or slightly acidic soil is most suitable for cultivation. It tends to grow poorly in saline-alkali or clayey soil. Before cultivation, a mixture of garden soil and a small amount of sandy loam, rich in humus, can promote faster growth.
II. Sunlight
This plant loves sunlight and requires ample light for photosynthesis during the growing period. However, during the hot summer, it should be moved to a shaded and rain-free area to cool down, preventing the leaves from wilting due to excessive sunlight. In winter, it should be moved to a sunny greenhouse to promote blooming in spring.
III. Temperature
Japanese flowering crabapple enjoys warm temperatures, and its flower buds are highly sensitive to temperature. 30-40 days before blooming, the plant should be placed in a room with heating equipment, maintaining a room temperature of 20-25°C. Under these conditions, it will bloom after about a month.
IV. Water
This plant is very particular about water. During the blooming period, the soil should be kept moist. In early July, it should be moved to a shaded area, and watering should be gradually reduced until the leaves turn yellow and fall off, prompting the plant to enter dormancy. After dormancy, water thoroughly to encourage new buds. In winter, the soil should be slightly dry.
V. Fertilizing
Some basic fertilizer can be mixed into the soil during planting, which eliminates the need for additional fertilization during the growing period. During the blooming period, a phosphorus-potassium compound fertilizer can be applied to promote blooming. After fertilizing, water the plant to help the roots absorb nutrients. Note that no fertilization should be done in winter, as this is the plant's dormant period.
VI. Precautions
Japanese flowering crabapple is prone to infestations by red spiders and snails. When red spiders appear on the leaves, insecticides can be sprayed to kill them. Snails usually appear at night and can be manually removed with forceps. After the leaves fall in autumn, pruning is necessary to remove dead, diseased, and overly long branches, increasing light and air circulation. This plant has a large structure, so stakes should be set up to prevent it from falling over.
The above information on the cultivation methods and precautions for Japanese flowering crabapple, as well as tips for beginners, are provided for green plant enthusiasts to refer to, hoping to solve any issues you may have in managing green plants and flowers.