How to save the rotten roots of Begonia
As an ornamental plant that is deeply loved by horticulture enthusiasts, the problem of rotten roots of crabapple often leaves conservators helpless. This article uses a four-step system solution and detailed analysis of the operation schematic diagram to help you quickly determine the degree of root rot and take effective response measures to restore the endangered crabapple to new life. 1. Reconstruction of the root respiratory system 1.1 Soil ventilation improvement plan The root system of Begonia has a unique stomatal structure. When the soil is hardened and the oxygen content is below 15%, root respiration is blocked and forms anaerobic metabolism. It is recommended to use the ratio of perlite: humus soil: vermiculite =3:5:2, carry out loosening operations every spring, and use bamboo loosening harrows to penetrate the soil layer 5-8 cm, which can increase the soil porosity by more than 40%. 1.2 Precise treatment of diseased roots When pruning, keep healthy root segments with a diameter of>2mm, use alcohol-disinfected scissors to cut at a 45° angle, and apply charcoal powder to the incision to effectively prevent secondary infection. Pay attention to retaining 3-5 aerial roots at the root neck, which is the key to plant recovery. 2. Scientific control of nutrient supply 2.1 First aid treatment of fertilizer hazards When the EC value is greater than 2.5mS/cm, it is necessary to rinse immediately. The siphon flushing method is used: place the flowerpot on a 30° slope, rinse continuously with room temperature clean water for 20 minutes, and the water flow speed is controlled at 500ml/min. After rinsing, use an EC test pen to confirm that the substrate conductivity returns to the safe range of 1.0-1.5mS/cm. 2.2 The new fertilization standard adopts the principle of "thin fertilizer and frequent application" during the recovery period. It is recommended that a slow-release fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 12-15-18 be added to each liter of substrate, and sprayed with alginic acid foliar fertilizer (diluted 2000 times) once a month. 3. Water management system upgrade 3.1 Intelligent monitoring plan The plug-in soil hygrometer should be inserted vertically into 2/3 of the depth of the basin soil, and the drainage program should be started when the pointer enters the red area (water content>65%). The "sandwich" water absorption method can be used for emergency treatment: 3cm ceramite is laid on the bottom layer, activated carbon particles are placed in the middle, and the surface layer is covered with pine bark. 3.2 The irrigation cycle is optimized for a 7-day cycle in spring and autumn, reduced to 5 days in summer and extended to 10-12 days in winter. Use the root-fixed water watering method: water in three times at intervals of 10 minutes until the amount of water seeping from the bottom of the basin reaches 20% of the total watering amount. 4. Systematic rejuvenation cultivation 4.1 After standardized treatment of wounds and pruning, use a mixture of 50% carbendazim 800 times solution +0.1% naphthylacetic acid to soak for 15 minutes to promote the formation of callus. Keep the ambient humidity at 70%-80% when drying roots, avoid direct light, and continue for 24-36 hours until the incision forms a translucent protective film. 4.2 The planting operation specifications adopt the tidal soil pot method, and the moisture content of the substrate is adjusted to 30% in advance. Keep the planting depth 1 cm above the original soil mark, and select a veg-fired pottery pot 3- 5 cm larger than the diameter of the root mass. After colonization, the seedlings were placed in a scattered light environment to slow down the seedlings for 14 days.
Through the above-mentioned four-dimensional treatment system, combined with regular observation of new bud germination (ideal recovery indicator: growth of 0.5-1cm per week), the complete recovery of crabapple can be achieved in 2-3 months. It is recommended to establish a maintenance log to record each loosening, fertilization and watering data to form a personalized maintenance plan.