What to Do When Potted Osmanthus Leaves Dry Up
Dry leaves on potted osmanthus plants are a common problem that困扰s gardening enthusiasts. As a famous traditional Chinese flower, osmanthus has specific requirements for its growing environment. This article will systematically analyze the causes of dry leaves from three dimensions: root care, water management, and environmental control, providing corresponding treatment solutions.
Essential Care Guide for Dry Osmanthus Leaves
Root Health Management
Overwatering is the main cause of root rot in potted osmanthus, which is manifested by the tips of new leaves becoming scorched. When testing the soil moisture, you can insert a bamboo chopstick into the soil for 2 hours and observe; if the soil particles that stick to it contain more than 30% moisture, you should stop watering immediately. It is recommended to use a purple sand pot with breathable holes at the bottom, combined with a mixture of pine needle soil and perlite in a 6:4 ratio to ensure proper root ventilation.
Scientific Watering Plan
When the potting soil is completely dry and cracked, do not water it heavily directly. Instead, use a stepped watering method: spray the topsoil on the first day, water 1/3 of the potting soil on the second day, and complete watering the entire pot on the third day. Using ceramsite mulch can reduce water evaporation. Water once every 10 days in winter and adjust to every 5-7 days in summer.
Humidity Adjustment Techniques
In the northern regions, it is necessary to maintain 60%-75% air humidity. In addition to spraying the leaves in the morning and evening, you can place an ultrasonic humidifier next to the pot. Avoid spraying water during the high-temperature noon to prevent leaf burn. It is recommended to use a temperature and humidity gauge for real-time monitoring, and start using a shade net when the temperature exceeds 28°C.
Advanced Care Suggestions
Regularly applying mature soybean cake water (diluted 100 times) can enhance leaf resistance. During root pruning in March every year, cut off 1/3 of the aging roots and apply wood ash. Remove the affected leaves immediately after detecting dry leaves and spray the whole plant with a 800-fold solution of carbendazim.
By precisely controlling water supply and growth environment, combined with scientific care measures, the problem of dry leaves in potted osmanthus can be effectively improved. It is recommended to record the plant's growth status monthly and adjust the care plan according to seasonal changes, keeping the osmanthus in a lush green state throughout the year.