How to care for a newly purchased Begonia semperflorens
Begonia semperflorens is favored by flower enthusiasts for its ability to bloom throughout the year, but the care of newly purchased plants is particularly crucial. This article systematically explains the scientific care methods for newly purchased Begonia semperflorens from environmental adaptation to daily management, helping you create a window sill filled with continuous flowers.
Management during the Environmental Adaptation Period
Key Points for Pre-treatment of Plants
Immediately check the condition of the plant after unpacking, use disinfected scissors to remove withered and yellow leaves and residual flowers, and retain healthy buds. If the surface of the potting soil is covered with decorative stones, it is recommended to carefully remove them with tweezers to avoid affecting soil aeration.
Temperature and Humidity Control
Maintain an optimal temperature range of 18-25°C, and in winter, use a double-layer insulation method: an inner layer of transparent plastic bags (with ventilation holes) and an outer layer of non-woven fabric. Equip a thermometer and hygrometer for real-time monitoring, and keep the relative humidity at 60%-70%.
Daily Care Tips
Scientific Watering Plan
Use the immersion method to water, placing the pot in a tray with 2cm of water twice a week for 10 minutes. Use a long-spout watering can to slowly pour water along the edge of the pot to avoid waterlogging in the core of the leaves.
Light Cycle Management
Set a combination of 4 hours of direct sunlight and 6 hours of diffused light daily, and use shade nets to adjust strong summer sunlight. Regularly rotate the pot to ensure even light exposure and avoid a biased crown.
Strategy for Nutrient Supply
After the seedling establishment period, use a slow-release fertilizer with NPK 15-15-15, and bury 10 granules in each pot. During the budding period, switch to a high-phosphorus water-soluble fertilizer (diluted 1200 times), and spray the leaves once a week.
Advanced Care Tips
Potting Operation Specifications
Repot after 1 month, choosing a breathable red clay pot that is 3-5cm larger in diameter than the original pot. Prepare the matrix according to the ratio of peat soil: perlite: vermiculite = 5:3:2, and place a 2cm layer of ceramsite at the bottom for drainage.
Disease and Pest Prevention
Alternately spray mancozeb and pymetrozine monthly to prevent diseases, and immediately remove any leaves with spots. Maintain good ventilation to prevent the multiplication of pests like spider mites.
Techniques for Flowering Regulation
Extend the flowering period by controlling light and temperature, maintaining a dark environment for 12 hours at night with a temperature of 18-20°C. Timely removal of spent flowers can stimulate the differentiation of new flower buds.
Mastering these care secrets will ensure that your Begonia semperflorens continues to bloom for the next 3-5 years. It is recommended to establish a care log to record data such as temperature, humidity, and fertilization, gradually forming a personalized care plan.