How to cultivate Epiphyllum oxypetalum in a pot
Introduction: This article introduces the cultivation of Epiphyllum oxypetalum in pots and the precautions for its maintenance, with the following specific content:
Epiphyllum oxypetalum is a very beautiful flower that often blooms at night, hence its nickname "evening beauty." Its花语 (hua yu) is "momentary beauty, eternal in an instant." The blooming period of Epiphyllum oxypetalum is usually at night and very brief, often lasting only about 3 to 4 hours. Therefore, people often use the phrase "Epiphyllum oxypetalum appears for a moment" to express transient beauty.
I. Soil Requirements
Epiphyllum oxypetalum prefers loose, fertile, and well-draining sandy soil. When cultivating it in a pot at home, you can prepare a relatively soft and fertile growing medium. For example, you can mix leaf mold soil, garden soil, and river sand in a ratio of 1:1:1, and then add an appropriate amount of decomposed organic fertilizer as the planting medium.
II. Flower Cultivation
When potting Epiphyllum oxypetalum at home, first cover the drainage hole at the bottom of the pot with a piece of gauze, then place a layer of cinders or coarse sand as the drainage layer, and then fill in the growing medium, planting the plant in the center of the pot and firming the soil. After potting, water thoroughly and then place the plant in a shady and well-ventilated area to acclimate for about a week, and after it returns to normal growth, proceed with regular maintenance.
III. Fertilizing Requirements
During the growth of Epiphyllum oxypetalum, it is necessary to frequently supplement nutrients. You can apply decomposed soybean cake fertilizer water every half month to promote robust plant growth. During the flowering period, stop applying nitrogen fertilizer and instead water with 1 to 2 applications of a 0.1% potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution, which can make the flowers more numerous and larger. Fertilizing should be done moderately, as excessive fertilizer can cause root rot.
How to cultivate Epiphyllum oxypetalum in a pot
IV. Watering Requirements
Epiphyllum oxypetalum does not require much water. In spring and autumn, water less frequently, usually once every 3 to 4 days, keeping the potting mix slightly moist. In summer, when it is hot and water evaporates quickly, prevent the potting mix from becoming too dry by providing ample water and spraying water around the plant in the morning and evening to increase the humidity of the surrounding air, which is beneficial for the plant's healthy growth.
V. Light Requirements
Epiphyllum oxypetalum prefers a semi-shaded environment but also needs some sunlight. In spring and autumn, it can be exposed to some diffused light to promote stronger stem and leaf growth. In summer, when the sunlight is too strong, be sure to move the potted plant to a shady and well-ventilated area. In winter, it can also benefit from more sunlight.
Since the stems of Epiphyllum oxypetalum are relatively soft, you can use wooden stakes inside the pot to create a支架 (support structure) and secure the stems and leaves to it to enhance the plant's appearance.
This article shares detailed information on how to cultivate Epiphyllum oxypetalum in a pot and the precautions for its maintenance, hoping to provide you with help!