When does the crab claw orchid bloom?
As the most eye-catching ornamental plant on the windowsill in winter, Crabclaw orchid is very popular for its unique hanging form and gorgeous flowers. However, many flower lovers often encounter two major dilemmas during the maintenance process: uncertainty of flowering period and inexplicable flower buds falling off. This article will provide you with an in-depth analysis of key issues from the dual perspectives of plant physiological characteristics and maintenance practices. Flowering cycle characteristics of Crabsnag, natural flowering regularity, the native environment of Crabsnag determines its short day characteristics. The normal flowering period is concentrated from October to February of the following year. Modern horticulture has cultivated three major categories through variety improvement: early flowering type (October to November), middle flowering type (December to January), and late flowering type (February to March). Practical observations found that when the night temperature remained below 15℃ and the light time was shortened to 8-10 hours, the plants started the flowering process. The synergy between temperature and light, a factor regulating flowering, significantly affects flowering: ① When the temperature difference between day and night is greater than 8℃, flower bud differentiation is promoted;② Using shading treatment can advance flowering by 2-3 weeks;③ If the winter temperature in southern areas is too high (>20℃), it may lead to delayed flowering or no flowering. Prevention and control plan for abnormal flower bud shedding imbalance Water management During the bud breeding period, the "see dry and see wet" method should be used: ① Water the substrate surface after drying 2 cm;② Use bamboo stick insertion method to detect humidity;③ Keep the air humidity at 50%-60%. Pay special attention to reducing the frequency of water supply after the flower buds develop color. Excessive wetting may cause root suffocation and bud fall. Nutrient supply strategies recommend the "three-stage fertilization method": ① Balanced fertilization of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium twice a month during the growth period (March to September);② Potassium dihydrogen phosphate (concentration 0.1%) once a week during the bud pregnancy period (January before the bud appears);③ Stop fertilization at full flowering period. Note that foliar fertilizer needs to be avoided at noon. The environment is stable to control the development period of the bud, it is necessary to maintain the "three fixed" principles: ① the placement position is fixed;② the light direction is fixed;③ the temperature fluctuation is less than 5℃/day. Experimental data shows that frequent rotation of flowerpots will increase the bud falling rate by 40%. It is recommended to adjust the plant type by 15° every 7 days.
By scientifically controlling the light cycle, temperature and humidity, and precise water and fertilizer management, not only can the flowering period of Crabclaw orchid be extended to 4 months, but also the flowering quantity be increased by 2-3 times. It is recommended to wipe the leaves with beer diluent (1:50) every month, which can not only remove dust but also replenish trace elements, allowing the crabclaw orchid to bloom in the most beautiful posture in the cold winter.