Key Points for Caring for Azalea 'Anku' in Summer
The article provides experience in green plant care for the key points of caring for Azalea 'Anku' in summer. Here are the detailed explanations from the editor.
Yesterday, a flower enthusiast asked, what is the reason for the burnt edges on the leaves of Azalea 'Anku'? Not knowing how to care for Azalea 'Anku' in summer, today, we will introduce the key points for summer care of Azalea 'Anku', hoping it will be helpful to you.
Key Points for Caring for Azalea 'Anku' in Summer
Compared to Western Azaleas and Belgian Azaleas, which are relatively difficult to manage, Azalea 'Anku' is much tougher and can bloom throughout the year. It blooms abundantly in spring and autumn and slightly in summer. Compared to Western Azaleas, Azalea 'Anku' is also more sun-resistant. Even新手 flower enthusiasts can easily raise it in summer by paying attention to the following points.
1. -- Maintain Adequate Fertilization and Watering --
Azalea 'Anku' is in the growing period in summer and therefore requires a fair amount of fertilizer and water. With the hot weather and high evaporation rate in summer, it is essential to maintain sufficient water to prevent yellowing leaves, leaf edge burn, and wilt.
For example, in the picture above, the edge and tip of the leaves of Azalea 'Anku' show clear signs of burn, and it is evident that the potting soil is quite dry. This plant's leaf burn is due to the enthusiast's reluctance to water, leading to dry soil.
In summer, for Azalea 'Anku' grown outdoors, it is recommended to keep the potting soil slightly moist. Water when the surface of the soil becomes dry. For indoor care, because of the relatively poor ventilation, the soil dries slower, and you can water when the top 2cm of the soil is dry, ensuring thorough watering.
In hot weather, a soluble fertilizer can be used at a dilution of 1500 times, applied every 7-10 days, or slow-release fertilizer can be applied on the surface of the pot to meet the growth needs of Azalea 'Anku'. It is important to note that Azalea 'Anku' has a moderate tolerance for fertilizer, and the concentration of soluble fertilizer should not be too high at any season, adhering to the principle of frequent application of thin fertilizers.
2. -- Pay Attention to Sun Protection and Cooling --
Azalea 'Anku' has a relatively strong tolerance for sun exposure. For ground-planted Azalea 'Anku', full sun is not a problem, and even if there is sunburn, it will not die. For potted Azalea 'Anku', it is recommended to provide some shade in summer.
If not shaded, it is suggested to place it in a semi-sunny position in the morning, avoiding western exposure. At the same time, place a large pot around the flower pot to block heat and prevent the roots from being scorched by the pot wall. It's best not to elevate the pot or place it on a shelf, and avoid direct contact with the concrete ground to prevent root damage.
3. -- Appropriate Supplement of Iron Fertilizer --
Azalea 'Anku' also prefers acidic soil. If the potting soil becomes alkaline or the pot temperature is too high, causing root damage, iron deficiency can occur, manifesting as yellowing and loss of green in new leaves. It is recommended to apply phosphorus-iron every 15 days to maintain soil acidity and use chelated iron to spray on the leaves in summer to supplement iron and prevent and correct iron deficiency.
4. -- Appropriate Pruning --
Azalea 'Anku' grows vigorously in summer and easily forms flower buds at the top of the branches. For young Azalea 'Anku' seedlings, it is possible to sacrifice flowering in summer and prune the branches to promote branching and achieve a full crown. A full crown will result in more flowers in autumn.
However, for large Azalea 'Anku' seedlings, it is not recommended to prune in summer. They can bloom in summer, and by autumn, they will bloom early. Pruning after flowering will not affect the flowering period.
5. -- Prevent Pests and Diseases --
Azaleas are susceptible to infection by the azalea bug in summer, which has symptoms similar to spider mites, with many yellow spots appearing on the leaves. It is recommended to maintain good ventilation for Azalea 'Anku' in summer and observe regularly. When spraying pesticides on other plants, also spray on the杜鹃. If infection is detected, apply efficient cypermethrin for pest control.
In summary, Azalea 'Anku' is easy to care for, blooms frequently, and is a very rewarding variety of flowers.
The introduction above provides a detailed explanation of the key points for summer care of Azalea 'Anku' and the summer care strategy for achieving year-round blooming.