The Cultivation Method of Euphorbia vermiculata
As a perennial herbaceous plant with high ornamental value, Euphorbia vermiculata is favored by gardening enthusiasts for its unique silver-green leaves and robust vitality. This article will systematically explain the key techniques for scientifically cultivating this succulent plant from three dimensions: environmental control, water and fertilizer management, and pest and disease control.
Key Elements of Environmental Control
Soil Matrix Selection
It is recommended to mix peat soil with perlite at a ratio of 3:1, with a 3cm thick layer of ceramsite at the bottom as a drainage layer. The potting soil needs to be replaced every two years, and retaining 1/3 of the soil around the root ball can reduce the risk during the adaptation period. When cultivating outdoors, ensure that the groundwater level is below 80cm to avoid waterlogging during the rainy season.
Temperature and Humidity Control
Maintain an ideal growth temperature of 15-25℃ in spring and autumn, provide shade and ventilation when temperatures exceed 32℃ in summer, and keep the temperature above 5℃ in winter. Control the air humidity between 40-60%, and locally increase humidity by placing wet gravel in a tray, avoiding direct spraying on the leaves.
Scientific Water and Fertilizer Management Plan
Principle of Precise Irrigation
Adopt the 'thoroughly wet' method, water when there is no dampness 3cm deep into the potting soil with a bamboo stick. Water every 20 days in winter and every 7-10 days in summer. It is recommended to use a long-spout pot to slowly pour water along the edge of the pot until water seeps out from the bottom drainage hole.
Strategy for Nutrient Supply
Apply a diluted 2000-fold 20-20-20 water-soluble fertilizer monthly during the growing period, and add phosphorus and potassium fertilizers during the budding period. Apply bone meal in autumn to supplement trace elements, with no more than 50g per pot. Organic fertilizers must be fully decomposed to avoid root burn.
Key Measures for Pest and Disease Control
Disease Treatment Plan
Spray 62.5% mancozeb wettable powder 800 times solution in advance during the high-incidence period of rust disease, and promptly remove and destroy the affected leaves. After continuous rainy days, use 70% methyl thiophanate-methyle 1000 times solution to prevent the occurrence of (T-J) disease.
Methods for Pest Control
Spray 5% emamectin benzoate micro-emulsion 3000 times solution during the caterpillar stage of the樗蚕, and use yellow sticky traps for physical control of刺蛾. Regularly check the back of leaves, and immediately remove any eggs found with a 75% alcohol cotton swab.
By precisely controlling the cultivation environment, implementing standardized water and fertilizer management, and establishing a pest and disease prevention system, the ornamental quality of Euphorbia vermiculata can be significantly improved. It is recommended to prune the plant shape monthly, promptly remove dense branches to promote ventilation, and rotate the pot to achieve balanced lighting, thereby cultivating high-quality plants with full shape and beautiful leaf color.