How to cultivate the Saoshi plant with variegation
Summary: This article shares the related experience of growing a plant with variegation called Saoshi, with detailed introduction below.
How to cultivate the Saoshi plant with variegation
Once the Saoshi plant with variegation is potted and successfully established, it can continue to grow, although it is slower than the normal形态 (morph) of the plant. Its growth rate mainly depends on the woodiness of the variegation plate. Relatively speaking, the growth rate of older variegated plants is slower, while young seedlings grow a bit faster. The rest of the growth habits are similar to those of normal Saoshi.
The Saoshi plant with variegation is quite rare. There are not many of these types of succulent plants on the market, and it also requires some luck and experience to grow them at home.
If the Saoshi plant at home develops variegation, more careful care is needed. Improper care can easily lead to many problems, and propagation of these plants should also be done with caution.
If not careful during propagation, the original plant with variegation may also encounter issues, which would be counterproductive.
Experienced gardeners use the "cutting" method to propagate variegated Saoshi, turning one pot into multiple, making the home a kingdom of variegated Saoshi. However, this method does carry risks and requires extra attention before and after propagation.
Suitable variegated Saoshi for topping and cutting
Variegated Saoshi that has just transitioned into this state is not suitable for propagation, as these plants are not strong or stable enough and are prone to propagation failure.
If gardeners attempt to propagate with such variegated Saoshi, it is difficult to succeed. Overall, it is better to choose plants that have been variegated for a while for propagation.
Such variegated Saoshi plants are stable in growth and do not have many other issues. During topping and cutting, the cuttings can also maintain a good state.
Using such cuttings is more likely to lead to successful propagation and is also very beneficial for the growth of the subsequent variegated Saoshi plants. The topped variegated Saoshi can also sprout branches and leaves more quickly without affecting subsequent growth.
Cautions when topping variegated succulents
① Predicting the shape after cutting
Before topping, everyone should consider the shape of the variegated Saoshi after the cut, so it's best to practice beforehand before making the cut.
Don't start cutting directly, as this will affect the sense of shape.
Based on the different variegated Saoshi and their growth forms, appropriate topping and cutting can be done to ensure that each cutting retains some branches and leaves.
② Sterilization and disinfection during cutting
When cutting variegated Saoshi, sterilization and disinfection should also be considered. This operation can effectively reduce the risk of fungal infections and pest infestations.
It's important to use a disinfectant after each cut and not forget this key point, as neglecting it can cause significant harm to the plant.
③ Air-dry before repotting
Some gardeners are eager when propagating cuttings and often go straight to repotting after cutting, which is actually a very incorrect approach.
It's essential to let the cutting wounds dry first, and they should be placed in a shaded and well-ventilated area to dry before repotting. This also helps increase the survival rate of the cuttings.
Cautions after variegated Saoshi cutting
① Avoid strong sunlight
For the "original" variegated Saoshi after cutting, it's also important to ensure they are not exposed to strong sunlight. Try to keep them in a shaded and well-ventilated area for the initial period, with some scattered light.
Only after new buds appear should they be returned to normal care. This is also to protect the state of the original plant and reduce issues with non-sprouting.
② Reduce watering of cuttings
After cuttings are planted, it's important not to overwater. The potting mix should be kept slightly moist, as excessive watering is not beneficial.
Too much water can cause the cuttings to rot and is not conducive to their subsequent growth. Maintaining the right moisture level is better for the plant to sprout and root.
③ Good ventilation is essential
After planting, it's important to maintain good ventilation for both the cuttings and the original plant. When the weather is suitable and conditions are good, they can be placed outdoors for care.
This can also help the plants maintain a better growth state, with each one sprouting new buds more quickly. Poor ventilation is not conducive to the growth of variegated Saoshi and cuttings.
④ Choosing the right pot
Some Saoshi varieties are prone to variegation, and the variegated state is even more enchanting. When caring for variegated succulents, the pot chosen must have good breathability, and materials such as terracotta, purple sand, or mud pots are best.
Whether to use a deep or shallow pot for caring for variegated succulents depends on the size of the plant.
If using a shallow pot, daily care and watering are easier and less likely to cause waterlogging. If only deep pots are available, they can also be used for planting.
If the plant has a crown diameter of 30 cm, using a square pot smaller than 35 cm would look better, and a tall pot should be used.
In summary:
When performing this operation, everyone should also have some determination, as propagating variegated Saoshi carries some risks.
This concludes the introduction on how to cultivate the Saoshi plant with variegation, for everyone's learning and reference!