Which flowers can use plant ash
Plant ash, as a natural potassium fertilizer, has unique value in gardening maintenance. Its alkaline characteristics and high potassium content form a double-edged sword effect - it may be harmful to acid-loving plants, but it can accurately meet the growth needs of specific plants. Mastering the correct application rules of plant ash is the key technology to creating a healthy garden.
I. Principles of Using Plant Ash
1. Acid-Base Regulation Mechanism
More than 60% of the soil in southern China is acidic, and the pH value of plant ash ranges from 8 to 9, which can effectively neutralize soil acidity. Experimental data show that applying 500g of plant ash per square meter can increase the soil pH by 0.5-1 units, creating an ideal environment for alkaline-loving plants.
2. Nutrient Supplement Characteristics
Plant ash contains 5-15% potassium, and its water-soluble potassium ion release rate is 2/3 of chemical potassium fertilizer. It is especially suitable for plants during the flower bud differentiation period and the cold resistance preparation period, as it can enhance cell wall thickness and improve cold tolerance at -3℃.
3. Advantages in Disease and Pest Control
The extract of plant ash has a control effect of 78% on aphids and a inhibition rate of 62% on powdery mildew spores. Its physical barrier effect can destroy the waxy layer of pest cuticles, forming a natural protective barrier.
II. List of Flowers Suitable for Plant Ash
1. Woody Ornamental Plants
• Oleander: Its salt and alkali tolerance allows for an annual application of up to 2kg/㎡• Clove: Applying before flowering can extend the blooming period by 15 days• Wisteria: Used with phosphorus fertilizer can increase inflorescence density by 30%
2. Courtyard Hedge Plants
• Thuja: Applying plant ash in autumn can increase the overwintering survival rate by 25%• Forsythia: Applying in early spring can promote the growth of new branches by 40%• Firethorn: Recommended mixing ratio in sandy soil is 1:5
3. Vine Climbing Plants
• Bubble Vine: Applying before the rainy season can prevent root rot• Winter Jasmine: The best effect is achieved with a 1:3 ratio mixed with decomposed leaf soil•杜梨: Applying during fruit development can increase single fruit weight by 20%
III. Guidelines for Scientific Application
1. Proportion Control Standard
It is recommended that the addition of plant ash for potted plants is less than 10% of the total soil volume, and for ground plants, the annual application per plant is controlled between 300-500g. Apply with an interval of 15 days from organic fertilizer to avoid nutrient antagonism.
2. Usage During Special Periods
Applying plant ash around the base of the plant before the rainy season can form a 30cm diameter flood prevention zone. Mixing it into the soil during winter earthworks can increase the surface temperature by 2-3℃.
By accurately grasping the characteristics of plants and the physical and chemical properties of plant ash, the perfect unity of ecological maintenance and landscape effects can be achieved. It is recommended to develop personalized fertilization plans based on soil test data.
(Note: The translation for "杜梨" (Duli) was not provided in the original text, so I've kept the original name.)