What are the precautions for growing dwarf sunflowers?
The dwarf sunflower is a relatively new ornamental flowering plant for growing at present. To help everyone understand it better, the editor will introduce the precautions for growing dwarf sunflowers. Let's take a look together!
1. Precautions for growing dwarf sunflowers
Dwarf sunflowers can be planted in soil ranging from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, with reasonable water and fertilizer management in normal care. Water demand is high in late spring and early summer, and the topdressing period cannot be neglected either. Biological and pesticide control should be based on the specific disease, and never used at will.
2. Introduction to the key points of growing dwarf sunflowers
1. Growth habits
Dwarf sunflowers like a sunny and warm environment, are not tolerant of shade or cold, and the suitable temperature is between 15-30°C. Dwarf sunflowers are propagated by sowing, generally sown in April around the Qingming period, and the suitable germination temperature is 15-20°C.
2. Potting soil selection
The potting soil used for raising seedlings should be loose, have good water retention, and be sterile. For transplanting, a sandy soil rich in humus and with good drainage is best. When planting out, apply sufficient base fertilizer at the bottom of the pot; when lifting the seedlings, carry as much soil as possible and damage the roots as little as possible, to help the plants recover faster.
3. Pest and disease control
During the growing period, dwarf sunflowers should be fertilized once every two weeks, but before the flowering period they should be given 2-3 topdressings of dilute phosphorus and potassium fertilizer. Keep the soil moist at all times, especially in high temperatures and drought, when watering should be timely. To make the main stem thick and grow healthily, side buds can be removed and supports set up to prevent the plants from being blown over by the wind. Common pests and diseases include powdery mildew and black spot; when they occur, remove the diseased remains and spray 75% chlorothalonil wettable powder at 500 times or 70% thiophanate-methyl wettable powder at 800 times for control. The main insect pests are plant bugs and red spider mites, which can be controlled by spraying 40% dichlorvos emulsifiable concentrate at 700 times or 75% propargite emulsifiable concentrate at 1500 times.