How to Repot a Rose Myrtle
As a star variety among succulent plants, the rose myrtle's unique thorny stems and vibrant flowers are highly favored by gardening enthusiasts. When the roots gradually fill the pot, scientific repotting becomes the key to maintaining the plant's health. This article will systematically analyze the complete process of repotting a rose myrtle, helping you master all the skills from timing selection to post-repot care.
Three Stages of Preparation for Repotting a Rose Myrtle
Choosing the Best Time
Spring, from March to May, is the golden period for repotting, with stable daily average temperatures of 18-25°C, when the plant is in the growing stage and wounds heal quickly. Autumn, from September to October, can also be operated but should avoid rainy days. High temperatures in summer can easily cause root rot, and winter dormancy is completely unsuitable for repotting.
Pot and Soil Configuration
Choose an unglazed terracotta pot with a diameter 3-5cm larger than the original pot, and the bottom must have 3 or more drainage holes. The matrix should be mixed in the ratio of decomposed leaf soil: coarse river sand: vermiculite = 4:3:3, with 5g of bone meal added per liter of soil to enhance water permeability. Avoid using heavy garden soil or uncomposted organic fertilizer.
Complete Process of Repotting a Rose Myrtle
Techniques for Safely Removing the Plant from the Pot
After stopping watering for 5 days, gently tap the pot wall with a rubber hammer, wear thorn-proof gloves, tilt the pot 45°, and slowly remove the plant. If the soil ball is compacted, use a bamboo skewer to circle around the pot wall to loosen it, retaining 1/3 of the protective soil for better root establishment.
Scientific Root Pruning Method
Cut off the blackened and rotting roots, keeping healthy roots with a diameter of 2mm or more. Thin out the dense fibrous roots, apply a fungicide powder to the cut edges, and let the roots dry for 2 hours before repotting.
Accurate Planting Steps
Place 3cm of陶粒 (ceramic stones) at the bottom of the pot as a drainage layer, and fill the soil to 1/3 of the pot height. Support the plant with your left hand and fill the soil with your right hand up to the root-stem junction, lifting the plant every 2cm to let the roots spread. Finally, firm the soil along the pot edge, leaving a 1cm space for watering.
Post-Repotting Care Tips
Place the plant in a scattered light area for 7 days to recover, and water thoroughly along the pot edge on the 3rd day. Avoid fertilizing for 2 weeks, and gradually increase light exposure after new leaves appear. Supplementing phosphorus and potassium fertilizer monthly can promote bud differentiation, and maintaining good ventilation can effectively prevent diseases and pests.
By mastering the timing of repotting, standardizing the operation process, and taking good care after repotting, the survival rate of rose myrtle can reach over 95%, and the plant's growth vitality can be stimulated. Remember to disinfect tools before each operation, take protective measures when dealing with thorny branches, and make gardening time safer and more enjoyable.