Dragon Bone Flower Cultivation Methods and Which Month to Prune
SummaryPruning time: The dragon bone flower can be pruned at any time, but it is better to do so in spring from March to May. When the height reaches 10-15cm, the top needs to be pinched off, and when the branches grow to 20-15cm, pinch off the top again. Old branches and weak branches that do not bloom much should be removed in time. Cultivation methods: The dragon bone flower can be planted in soil mixed with coarse sand, decomposed soil, and an appropriate amount of decomposed farmyard manure. During the growth process, it needs sufficient light, but in summer it needs appropriate shading. In spring, water once every half month; in summer, water every day; in winter, water less.
I. Propagation Methods
The dragon bone flower is generally propagated by cuttings. The specific steps are as follows.
1. First, cut a section of branch from the mother dragon bone flower plant, about 5-6cm in length.
2. After wrapping the wound with plant ash, place it in a ventilated place to dry, and then it can be used for cuttings.
3. Insert the branch directly into the prepared soil, then water it appropriately, and place it in a cool, ventilated place for care.
4. After about a week, when the potting soil becomes dry, water appropriately. Do not overwater, otherwise water accumulating at the bottom of the pot can easily cause rot, so water must be controlled. It will take about 30 days to take root.
II. Soil
Before planting the dragon bone flower, suitable potting soil should be selected. Soil rich in humus, fertile, loose, and well aerated is preferable. It can also be mixed by yourself by choosing coarse sand, decomposed soil, and an appropriate amount of decomposed farmyard manure, and mixing them evenly in a certain proportion.
III. Light and Temperature
1. The dragon bone flower needs sufficient light during its growth process, but under high summer temperatures, it should be appropriately shaded and should not be exposed to direct strong light, otherwise the plant can easily turn yellow. In the other three seasons, it can receive full sun, which is more conducive to plant growth.
2. The dragon bone flower is relatively sensitive to temperature and is not cold-tolerant. If the winter temperature is below 10°C, frost damage can easily occur, thereby affecting the normal growth of the plant, or even causing death.
IV. Timely Watering
1. The dragon bone flower is a tropical plant and does not have high water requirements. In spring, watering once every 10-15 days is sufficient. In addition, to increase air humidity, water can be sprayed appropriately around the plant, which is more conducive to plant growth.
2. In the high-temperature environment of summer, water loss is relatively fast. To ensure the plant's water needs, it should be watered once a day, generally in the morning or evening. In winter, under low-temperature conditions, water less, and the soil should be kept moderately dry.
V. Timely Pruning
The dragon bone flower can be pruned at any time. It is best to prune when the temperature begins to rise in spring. This is mainly determined by the height of the plant. Each pruning should be done with care not to cut too long.
1. When a newly planted dragon bone flower grows to about 10-15cm in height, the top should be cut off. For the newly grown branches, only keep the three robust branches growing at each corner, and cut off all the others.
2. When the branches grow to about 20-25cm, pinch off the top again. This helps the dragon bone flower develop a full plant shape and improves its ornamental value.
3. Pruning can be carried out regularly according to the growth of the dragon bone flower to prevent the plant from aging prematurely. In addition, some old branches and weak branches that do not bloom much should be cut off to prevent nutrient loss and avoid affecting plant growth.
4. The dragon bone flower generally blooms from May to November, with a flowering period of about 7-8 weeks. About 20 days after flowering begins is the better harvest season.