How to Care for Summer Xianren Flowers
Summer is the peak growing season for Xianren flowers, but the high temperature and humidity also make maintenance more challenging. As a representative of the cactus family, these succulents require ample light while being sensitive to extreme weather. Mastering scientific management techniques is essential for ensuring the plants survive the summer safely. This article systematically analyzes the four core maintenance points, from shading and temperature control to water and fertilizer management.
I. Light and Temperature Management
1.1 Avoid Direct Sunlight at Noon
Between 11-15 hours in summer, the UV intensity reaches its peak, so the plants should be moved to an east-facing/north-facing balcony or use a sunshade net with 50% light blocking rate. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause irreversible yellowish-brown sunburn spots on the epidermis.
1.2 Temperature Difference Control Techniques
Maintaining an 8-10°C temperature difference between day and night is more beneficial for nutrient accumulation, and the plants can be placed in a well-ventilated area at night. When the temperature continuously exceeds 35°C, it is recommended to turn on a circulating fan to help cool down.
II. Scientific Water Management
2.1 Accurate Watering Timing
Water the plants after sunset or before sunrise to avoid stimulating the roots with cold water. Using the immersion pot method is safer, with the water level not exceeding 1/3 of the height of the pot, and lasting for 20 minutes each time.
2.2 Special Water Control Situations
During the plum rain season, extend the watering interval to 5-7 days, and stop watering during continuous rainy weather. For newly planted plants, keep the soil slightly moist for the first two weeks.
III. Nutrition Supply Strategies
3.1 Fertilizer Selection Criteria
Use slow-release fertilizers with a high phosphorus and potassium ratio (N-P-K=5-15-10), and combining it with decomposed sheep manure fertilizer can achieve better results. Loosen the soil to a depth of 3cm before fertilizing to ensure nutrient penetration.
3.2 Fertilization Taboos
Do not fertilize on high-temperature alert days (35°C+) and within 12 hours after rain. For newly repotted plants, wait for one month before applying additional fertilizer.
IV. Pest and Disease Prevention System
4.1 Common Disease Prevention and Treatment
For the early stage of (T-J) disease, spray the plant with a 800x solution of Mancozeb. For root rot, change the pot and remove the necrotic roots. Check the stems weekly for brown soft spots.
4.2 Comprehensive Pest Control
For scale insects, apply 75% alcohol, and for red spider mites, spray with 2000x Abamectin solution. Hang yellow sticky traps around the pot to prevent whitefly infestations.
Through light adjustment, precise water control, scientific fertilization, and pest and disease prevention, Xianren flowers can not only survive the summer safely but also accumulate energy for the autumn bloom. It is recommended to take growth record photos every 10 days, compare and adjust the maintenance plan, and let these desert sprites show their unique charm in summer.