How to plant bulbous crabapple
As a perennial herb in the Begonia family, bulbous begonia has become a favorite in the horticulture world with its gorgeous double flowers and rich colors. To successfully cultivate this ornamental plant, soil selection and cultivation management are key links. This article will systematically analyze the core points of the planting process from substrate configuration to maintenance skills. 1. Basic points for planting bulbous malus 1.1 Scientific ratio of cultivation substrates The roots of bulbous malus are extremely sensitive to the soil environment. An ideal substrate should have the following characteristics: a slightly acidic environment with a pH value of 5.5-6.2; a breathable structure with a porosity of>30%; The characteristics of retaining water but not accumulating water. The recommended formula is peat soil: perlite: vermiculite =5:3:2. This ratio has been proved by tests to increase the tuber germination rate by 40%. 1.2 The key step of substrate disinfection requires double disinfection treatment: first spread it out and expose it to the sun for 3-5 sunny days, and the ultraviolet sterilization rate can reach 85%; then pour the substrate with hot water at 50 ° C, cool it, and mix it with carbendazim (1 g/kg soil). It is recommended to add 5% pine scales to enhance air permeability after opening the commercial special soil. 2. Advanced skills for cultivating bulbous crabapple 2.1 Selection criteria for high-quality tubers Select healthy tubers with a diameter of 3-5cm, and the epidermis should be uniform red-brown and free from mechanical damage. Qualified tubers must have: bud point fullness ≥3 (according to international tuber grading standards); weight>15g; and dry incisions without exudate. The damp tubers can be wrapped with sulfur powder and left to stand for 48 hours before planting. 2.2 Scientific planting depth control adopts shallow planting method: lay the tubers flat on the surface of the substrate, and the covering thickness does not exceed 1/3 of the diameter of the tubers. Experimental data show that the germination rate is the highest (92%) when covered with 2 cm of soil, while exceeding 3 cm will increase the rot rate to 35%. After planting, maintaining the environmental temperature of 18-22℃ and the humidity of 70% can accelerate germination. 3. Maintenance and Management of Bulbous Begonia 3.1 Management Points for Slow Seedling Stage 10-15 days after planting is the key Slow Seedling Stage, which needs to be maintained: light intensity <3000Lux; substrate humidity 30%-40%(knead into a ball with your hands and then disperse with a touch); The temperature difference between day and night is controlled within 5℃. Avoid applying fertilizer at this stage. Spray 0.1% gibberellin solution on the leaves every week to promote roots. 3.2 During the adult plant period, the light is gradually increased to 10,000 - 15,000 Lux after leaf expansion, and the substrate EC value is maintained at 0.8-1.2mS/cm. Use the "see dry" watering method and apply 20-20 -20-20 water-soluble fertilizer every week. In summer, 50% of the sun needs to be shaded, and in winter, the night temperature is maintained at>10℃.
Through scientific soil ratio and refined management, bulbous begonia can bloom 3-4 times a year, and the number of flowers per plant can reach more than 20. By mastering these core cultivation techniques, you can also easily cultivate bulbous crabapple with colorful flowers.