How to Care for fleshy Green Beans
Fleshy green beans, with their crystal-clear, succulent leaves and unique growth form, have become a new favorite among many plant enthusiasts. Although these succulent plants appear delicate, maintaining their healthy growth requires mastering scientific care methods. This article will systematically analyze the key points of caring for fleshy green beans, from environmental control to daily management.
Basic Conditions for Caring for Fleshy Green Beans
1. Scientific Soil Mixing Scheme
It is recommended to use a mixed matrix with 70% granular soil, such as a combination of red jade soil, perlite, and coconut bran (3:3:4). Every spring, new soil should be replaced, and retaining the protective soil around the roots during potting can increase the survival rate. For plants with rotting roots, after pruning, it is suggested to soak them in a carbendazim solution for 20 minutes before repotting.
2. Techniques for Light Control
In spring and autumn, they can be exposed to full sunlight, while in summer, a shade net should be set up to filter 50% of the light. In winter, ensure 6 hours of direct sunlight a day, which can be supplemented with grow lights. Pay attention to changes in leaf color, as red edges indicate excessive light.
3. Precise Watering Strategy
Adopt the principle of "completely dry before watering," with intervals of 10-15 days in spring and summer, and extended to 20-30 days in winter. It is recommended to use a narrow-spouted pot to slowly pour water along the edge of the pot, avoiding water accumulation in the leaf center. A bamboo skewer can be inserted into the soil to check moisture, and water can be added when it does not stick to the soil.
4. Reasonable Fertilization Management
During the growing season (March to October), apply a slow-release fertilizer for succulents monthly, and stop fertilizing in winter. Bone meal can be added to the bottom of the pot as a base fertilizer when repotting. Avoid strong sunlight for 3 days after fertilizing to prevent fertilizer burn.
Propagation Methods for Fleshy Green Beans
Leaf Propagation Technique
Select healthy leaves from the middle and lower parts, gently shake them off completely, and let the wound dry before placing them flat on the surface of vermiculite. Maintain an environmental humidity of 70% and at a temperature of 20-25°C, roots should form in about 15 days. Transplant when the new sprouts reach 2cm.
Key Points for Stem Cutting Propagation
Cut the top 5-8cm, remove the lower leaves, and let it dry for 3 days. Treat the cut with rooting powder and insert it into slightly moist perlite. Maintain diffused light for the first two weeks, and gradually increase light as new roots grow to 1cm.
Disease and Pest Control System
Regularly check the back of the leaves to prevent scale insects and remove any pests found immediately with an alcohol cotton swab. Root mealybugs can be treated with dinotefuran. Black rot should be promptly removed, and the wound treated with sulfur powder. Preventive spraying with a 800x solution of mancozeb every quarter is recommended.
With a scientific soil mixing scheme, precise water and light control, and a systematic disease and pest control system, fleshy green beans can display their best ornamental state. It is recommended to regularly observe the growth changes of the plants and adjust the care strategy according to the season. Mastering leaf and stem cutting propagation techniques can also continuously expand your collection of succulents.