How often to repot牡丹吊兰 (Peony hanging orchid)
Peony hanging orchid is widely loved as an indoor foliage and flowering plant for its lush green leaves and bright red flowers. As a plant with vigorous, fleshy roots, scientific repotting management directly affects its growth and flowering quality. This article systematically analyzes the complete strategy for the root care of peony hanging orchid, from the judgment of repotting cycle to the full operation process.
Criteria for determining the repotting cycle of peony hanging orchid
Observing the growth state of the plant is key to determining the timing of repotting. When the leaves become thin, new buds sprout slowly, or the roots penetrate through the drainage holes, it indicates that the nutrients in the potting soil are insufficient. Under normal maintenance conditions, it is recommended to change the potting soil every 1-2 years, or annually if planted in a small pot or with exceptionally vigorous growth.
Best time to choose for repotting
Repot in spring, March to April, when the temperature is stable above 15°C, as the plant ends its dormancy and enters the growing season, and the root repair ability is strongest. Avoid operating during the high temperature of summer and the low temperature of winter to prevent root damage that is difficult to recover.
Complete process of repotting peony hanging orchid
Scientific potting technique
Stop watering 3 days in advance to allow the potting soil to dry and contract, use a gardening spade to create a 2cm gap along the pot wall, tilt the pot and support the base of the plant to slowly remove it. If the roots are tightly entwined, gently tap the pot wall to assist in separation.
Root pruning and disinfection
Remove two-thirds of the old soil and use a scissors disinfected with alcohol to cut off the blackened and rotting roots, retaining the healthy white roots. Soak in a fungicide solution for 20 minutes, then wait for the cut to be slightly dry before repotting.
Substrate preparation and planting
Use a mixed substrate of peat soil: perlite: decomposed leaf soil = 5:3:2, with a 3cm thick layer of ceramsite at the bottom of the pot. Plant at the same level as the original soil mark, gently lift the plant to spread the roots, and lightly press the soil after filling to secure it.
Key points of care after repotting
Place the plant in a diffused light environment to acclimate for 7-10 days after repotting, water thoroughly the first time, then maintain the substrate slightly moist. After new leaves sprout, apply a balanced nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium fertilizer diluted 2000 times, gradually increasing the light intensity.
Through scientific repotting management, peony hanging orchid can maintain a vigorous growth state. Mastering the 2-year repotting cycle, combined with the correct root pruning techniques and substrate improvement, can ensure healthy root development and continuous blooming of bright flowers, making it a dazzling ecological landscape in indoor spaces.