What's Going on with the Bear's Child Losing Leaves
The fluffy Bear's Child has become a star variety in the succulent world thanks to its cute bear claw shape, but the frequent leaf shedding in summer often leaves plant lovers at a loss. This article will delve into the four main causes of leaf shedding and uncover the regenerative potential of the fallen leaves.
I. Tracking the Root Causes of Abnormal Leaf Shedding in Bear's Child
1.1 Extreme High Temperature Stress
When the thermometer exceeds the 35℃ warning line, Bear's Child will activate its dormant protection mechanism. At this point, the edges of the older leaves develop brown spots, and the central leaves gradually become wrinkled and fall off. It should be noted that even during the dormant period, the plant still requires scattered light, and it is recommended to use a shading net to filter 50% of direct sunlight.
1.2 Obstructed Air Circulation
A closed environment can lead to hindered transpiration in the leaves, causing the base of the petioles to form abscission layers and accelerate leaf shedding. Experimental data shows that installing a mini circulation fan to achieve an air velocity of 0.3m/s can reduce the leaf shedding rate by 62%.
1.3 Imbalance in Water Management
During the dormant period, the root's water absorption capacity decreases by 80%. When watering, use the "three-finger detection method": insert the index, middle, and ring fingers into the potting soil up to the second joint, and if none feel damp, water 50ml along the edge of the pot.
1.4 Response to Transplanting
Newly purchased plants may experience physiological leaf shedding during the acclimatization period, usually lasting 2-3 weeks. It is recommended to keep the original soil ball when transplanting and use HB-101 plant vitality solution at 2000 times dilution to drench the roots to accelerate recovery.
II. Exploring the Regeneration Possibility of Bear's Child Leaf Shedding
The success rate of leaf cuttings with complete leaves is only 15%-20%, and it is necessary to strictly select healthy leaves with growth points. The best operation process is: ① let the cut surface dry in the shade for 3 days ② place it flat on the surface of red jade soil ③ maintain 60% air humidity ④ red root points can be seen after 45 days. It is worth noting that the success rate of stem segment cuttings can reach over 75%.
By improving the care environment and combining scientific treatments, Bear's Child can fully regenerate new buds in autumn. It is recommended to apply seaweed extract once a month to promote the differentiation of lateral buds, and maintaining a day-night temperature difference of 10°C can induce more bear claw patterns to form.