How to Cultivate蟹爪兰 (Schlumbergera)
The editor provides an introduction to the cultivation of Schlumbergera and its key cultivation techniques in the field of green plants and flowers. Next, the editor will give you a detailed explanation.
Schlumbergera is a plant from the cactus family, known for its long blooming period. It adds ornamental value to the home and can purify the air, as well as having medicinal value. Due to its multiple functions, it has become popular among many gardening enthusiasts. This plant is relatively easy to cultivate, but to grow it well, one needs to understand the environmental conditions required for its growth. Let's talk about the cultivation method for Schlumbergera in pots.
I. Potting Soil Selection
When cultivating Schlumbergera, ceramic pots are usually chosen, and they should be relatively large. Gardeners can prepare their own nutrient-rich soil, which consists of decayed leaf soil, garden soil, and sandy soil, in a ratio of 4:3:3.
II. Watering Conditions
In spring and autumn, watering once a week is sufficient. In summer, water should be controlled, with two to three waterings per week, keeping the soil slightly moist. In winter, watering once every two weeks is enough. There should be no accumulated water in the potting soil, as excess water can cause root rot in Schlumbergera.
III. Fertilization Requirements
During the growing period of Schlumbergera, fertilizing once every two weeks is enough, mainly with a dilute nitrogen fertilizer, using a small amount. Before Schlumbergera blooms, less nitrogen fertilizer should be used, and more phosphorus and potassium fertilizers should be applied, which helps the growth of flower buds.
IV. Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Schlumbergera growth is between 18 and 23 degrees Celsius. In summer, appropriate shading is required to keep the temperature below 30 degrees Celsius. In winter, adequate insulation is needed to prevent the temperature from dropping below 5 degrees Celsius. In autumn, the light is relatively soft, so it should be allowed to receive ample scattered light.
V. Light Requirements
Schlumbergera is a light-loving plant and requires sufficient light to bloom normally. In summer, some shading is necessary, while in other seasons, it should be allowed to receive normal sunlight.
VI. Proper Pruning
During the budding period of Schlumbergera, overly dense buds should be pruned. After flowering, the spent flowers should be removed to save nutrients for the plant.
VII. Propagation Methods
Propagation methods include seed propagation and cutting propagation. For home cultivation of Schlumbergera in pots, cutting propagation is mostly chosen. This method is typically carried out in spring (March to April) and autumn (September).
The detailed content about how to cultivate Schlumbergera and its key cultivation techniques has been provided above, hoping it will be helpful to you!