When to Fertilize Potted Flowers
Scientific fertilization is a key link in the maintenance of potted flowers, directly affecting the growth momentum and flowering quality of the plants. Mastering the timing and skills of fertilization can make the roots of potted flowers strong, the leaves glossy, and the flowering period longer. This article will systematically analyze the core points of fertilizing potted plants from seasonal changes, fertilizer selection to operational details.
Guide to Seasonal Fertilization for Potted Flowers
Spring Vigorous Growth Period
When the temperature rises to 15-25℃, leaf-viewing and flower-viewing plants such as epipremnum and Chinese roses enter the rapid growth period. It is recommended to apply a balanced N-P-K fertilizer diluted 1500 times every 15 days, combined with mature rice washing water to supplement trace elements. Apply bone meal before the germination of new buds to promote root development.
Summer High Temperature Control Period
When the temperature exceeds 30℃, gardenias, jasmines, and others should switch to phosphorus-potassium fertilizers to enhance their resistance to stress. Adopt a strategy of applying thin fertilizers frequently, reduce the fertilizer concentration to 2000 times, and choose to water along the edge of the pot after 18:00 in the evening. Pause fertilization before and after heavy rain to prevent loss.
Autumn Nutrient Storage Period
September to October is a key period for camellias and orchids to accumulate nutrients, with an additional application of磷酸二氢钾 (potassium dihydrogen phosphate) twice a month (concentration 0.1%). The depth of organic fertilizer application should be controlled at 5cm, more than 3cm away from the main stem, combined with loosening the soil to enhance breathability.
Three Principles of Scientific Fertilization for Potted Flowers
Principle of Balanced Nutrition
Use N-P-K=20-20-20 compound fertilizer during the growing period and switch to a high-phosphorus formula during the flowering period. Regularly supplement humic acid to improve soil structure, alternate the use of earthworm fertilizer and microbial fertilizer, and establish a benign micro-ecological environment.
Dynamic Adjustment Principle
No fertilization is allowed within 30 days of potting new plants, and fertilization should be resumed after new roots have emerged from repotting. Stop fertilizing immediately when the plant shows yellow leaves or stiff seedlings, and use the siphon method to wash away salt from the potting soil. Stop fertilizing completely during the dormancy period of succulent plants.
Principle of Safe Application
After applying solid fertilizer, cover with 2cm of plain soil, and pour liquid fertilizer slowly along the pot wall. foliar fertilizer should be sprayed avoiding the strong sunlight at noon, and ventilation should be enhanced after spraying. If it rains within 24 hours after fertilizing, a supplement is needed.
By mastering the seasonal fertilization needs of potted flowers and matching them with scientific ratios of organic and inorganic fertilizers, the plants can continuously obtain growth momentum. It is recommended to establish a fertilization log, recording each fertilization time, category, and plant response to gradually form a personalized maintenance plan. Regularly test the soil EC value to keep the matrix salt concentration below 1.2mS/cm to ensure the healthy growth of potted flowers.