Among numerous plants, woody plants, with their unique ornamental value and vitality, are favored by many. However, some people encounter many difficulties in caring for woody plants, lamenting "woody plants are not easy to grow." Why are woody plants difficult to cultivate? How should we deal with these issues? This article will reveal them one by one.
Reasons why woody plants are difficult to cultivate1. Long growth and development cycle
Compared with herbaceous plants, woody plants have a longer growth and development cycle. From sowing to flowering and fruiting, it often takes several years or even decades, which requires more time and effort from caregivers.
2. Complex root system
The root system of woody plants is relatively complex, including main roots, lateral roots, and fibrous roots, etc. These roots are intertwined in the soil, requiring a high demand for nutrients and water. The roots are easily affected by diseases and pests, leading to poor plant growth.
3. Poor adaptability to the environment
Woody plants have high requirements for the environment, such as light, temperature, and humidity. Once environmental conditions change, the growth and development of the plant will be affected. Woody plants also have certain requirements for soil pH and texture.
4. High maintenance difficulty
The difficulty in maintaining woody plants is mainly reflected in the following aspects:
(1) Pruning: To maintain an aesthetically pleasing shape, caregivers need to prune woody plants regularly. During pruning, attention should be paid to the cut surface and pruning methods to avoid affecting plant growth.
(2) Fertilization: Woody plants have a high demand for fertilizer. Caregivers need to fertilize rationally based on the plant's growth stage and soil fertility.
(3) Disease and pest control: Woody plants are easily affected by diseases and pests. Caregivers need to inspect regularly and take measures to prevent and control them in a timely manner.
Coping strategies1. Choose suitable varieties
When purchasing woody plants, varieties with strong adaptability should be selected based on local climate and soil conditions. In the north, choose cold and drought-resistant varieties, while in the south, choose heat and humidity-resistant varieties.
2. Optimize the soil environment
Improving the soil environment is the key to increasing the survival rate of woody plants. Specific measures are as follows:
(1) Loosening the soil: Regularly loosen the soil to increase aeration, which is beneficial for root growth.
(2) Fertilization: Fertilize rationally based on the plant's growth stage and soil fertility to supplement nutrients.
(3) Drainage: Ensure good soil drainage to prevent root waterlogging.
3. Prune in a timely manner
Pruning is an important part of maintaining woody plants. The following points should be noted when pruning:
(1) Cut surface: The cut surface should be smooth to avoid causing wounds.
(2) Pruning methods: Choose suitable pruning methods based on tree shape and growth habits.
(3) Timing of pruning: Spring and autumn are the best times for pruning.
4. Strengthen disease and pest control
Disease and pest control is key to ensuring the healthy growth of woody plants. Specific measures are as follows:
(1) Regular inspection: Detect diseases and pests in a timely manner and take preventive and control measures.
(2) Chemical control: Use chemical pesticides for control when necessary.
(3) Biological control: Use biological methods, such as natural enemies, to control diseases and pests.
Although woody plants are not easy to maintain, proper maintenance methods can make them grow robustly. I hope this article can provide some help for you in the process of caring for woody plants.