Post-Blossom Maintenance of Rieger Begonias
As a perennial herbaceous plant in the Begoniaceae family, Rieger begonias are deeply loved by horticulture enthusiasts for their rose-like layered flower shape and bloom period of up to half a year. When the brilliant flowers gradually wither, scientific post-blossom management will directly affect the speed of plant rejuvenation and the quality of flowering next year. This article will systematically analyze the key points of post-blossom care for Rieger begonias from three dimensions: nutritional management, pruning care, and environmental regulation.
I. Post-Blossom Pruning Management
1.1 Necessity of Pruning Withered Flowers
After the flowering period, the remaining wilted flower buds will continue to consume nutrients from the plant. Statistics show that each withered flower consumes 0.03g of carbohydrates per day. Timely removal of withered flowers can prevent the ineffective loss of nutrients and simultaneously prevent the growth of fungal diseases such as gray mold.
1.2 Pruning Operation Specifications
Use disinfected pruning shears to make a 45-degree diagonal cut 2cm from the base of the flower stem, and apply a fungicide powder to the cut surface for sealing. Focus on pruning weak and intersecting branches, retaining 4-6 robust main branches, and controlling the overall plant height between 15-20cm.
II. Nutritional Supplement Plan
2.1 Fertilization Cycle Planning
Apply a slow-release fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 1:1:1 within 7 days after flowering, adding 5g of granular fertilizer for every 10cm of pot diameter. Before entering the dormant period, supplement with foliar fertilizer (potassium dihydrogen phosphate 1000 times solution) every 15 days to promote bud differentiation.
2.2 Substrate Improvement Measures
Replace the top 3cm of old soil during pruning, mixing in珍珠岩 (perlite) and decomposed leaf soil (2:1) to improve aeration. Add bone meal (5g per liter of soil) to supplement calcium, which can enhance the lignification of new branches.
III. Environmental Regulation Key Points
3.1 Water Control Standards
Adjust the watering frequency to once every 7-10 days, using the immersion method to add water until the substrate moisture content reaches 40%. Maintain the air humidity between 55%-60%, which can be achieved by placing wet pebbles in a tray for local humidification.
3.2 Light Intensity Management
Gradually increase the scattered light to 6 hours per day, using a shading net to filter the strong midday sunlight. Rotate the pot 180 degrees regularly to ensure even light exposure from all directions and prevent biased growth.
Through systematic post-blossom care, Rieger begonias can complete nutritional accumulation within 45-60 days, with a germination rate of new buds reaching over 90%. It is recommended to check the root status monthly and prevent and control pests and diseases such as spider mites in a timely manner. With a day-night temperature difference of 10°C, the plants can present a fuller flower shape and more vibrant colors during the flowering period next year.