How to Care for the Golden Branch and Jade Leaf
Among the numerous succulent plants, the Golden Branch and Jade Leaf is highly favored for its unique fleshy leaves and twisted branches. This plant, native to South Africa and belonging to the Crassulaceae family, can serve as a desktop greenery to decorate living spaces or be shaped into an elegant bonsai art through pruning. However, to maintain its emerald-like leaf color and graceful shape, one needs to master scientific care methods.
Adjusting the Growing Environment for Golden Branch and Jade Leaf
Substrate Ratio and Pot Selection
The ideal substrate should maintain a balance between breathability and water retention. It is recommended to use a golden ratio of humus (40%), vermiculite (30%), coarse river sand (20%), and bone meal (10%), which meets the respiratory needs of the roots and also provides nutrients. Terra cotta pots are the preferred choice due to their good breathability, which can prevent root rot from excessive water, and a 3cm thick layer of volcanic rock should be placed at the bottom of the pot for drainage.
Light Intensity and Cycle Management
In spring and autumn, the plant should receive 4-6 hours of scattered light daily, use a 50% shade net to filter strong light in summer, and can be kept in full sunlight in winter. Remember to rotate the pot 180 degrees every two weeks to ensure even exposure to light. When there is insufficient light, the leaf spacing will increase, and etiolation may occur.
Accurate Supply of Water and Nutrition
Smart Watering Plan
Use the "wet-dry alternation method": keep the substrate moisture at 30%-50% in spring and autumn, water thoroughly when the top 3cm of soil is dry; increase air humidity to 60% during high summer temperatures, and control water to 15% substrate moisture in winter. It is recommended to use a long-spout pot to slowly pour water along the edge of the pot to avoid water accumulation in the leaf heart.
Scientific Fertilization System
During the growing season (March-October), apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted 2000 times every 20 days, and complement with monthly foliar applications of calcium and magnesium fertilizers. Stop fertilizing during dormancy, and maintain basic nutrients by adding slow-release granular fertilizers. Note that newly repotted plants should not be fertilized for 2 months.
Artistic Shaping and Health Management
Bonsai Shaping Techniques
Begin shaping when the main stem diameter reaches 1cm: use the aluminum wire wrapping method to adjust the direction of the branches, retaining 3-5 main branches to form a cloud-like structure. Pruning should be done in spring, and apply a healing agent to the cut surfaces to prevent infection. Regularly remove old leaves from the bottom to promote ventilation.
Key Points for Disease and Pest Control
Maintaining good ventilation can prevent 80% of diseases. Use 75% alcohol cotton swabs to remove scale insects, and use matrine solution to control aphid outbreaks. In the early stages of root rot, cut off the decayed part, soak in a carbendazim solution, and then repot.
How to Care for the Golden Branch and Jade Leaf