How to Grow and Care for Zephyranthes candida
Zephyranthes candida is a green plant that looks very much like Chinese chives. It is also known as jiu lian, jiu cai lian, hua jiu, hong chang pu lian, hong chang pu, false saffron, and sai fan hong hua. Its plant form is elegant and highly ornamental, and it is often grown as a container plant. So what are its growing methods?
How to grow Zephyranthes candida:
1. Choosing soil
Zephyranthes candida is not strict about soil, but for better growth, it is recommended to use fertile sandy loam mixed with a certain amount of yellow sand (or with some small white foam particles added).
2. Temperature
The most suitable growing temperature for Zephyranthes candida is 22-30 degrees. After planting, pay attention to irrigation and maintain humidity. When the ambient temperature is below 10°C, it cannot overwinter safely, so at this time move Zephyranthes candida indoors and take good cold protection and warmth measures.
3. Watering
During growth, Zephyranthes candida needs enough water. It is recommended to keep the soil moist, but do not let water accumulate. In dry weather, spray water on the leaves to increase air humidity. Otherwise, the leaf tips dry out easily. Generally, water Zephyranthes candida once every 2-3 days in summer, and once every 7-10 days in spring and autumn.
4. Fertilizing
When potting each year, use soil replacement together with a base fertilizer. The fertilizer can be organic fertilizer, such as manure, or nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizers. Generally apply once every 2-3 months, increasing phosphorus and potassium in proportion, which can promote thicker bulbs and better flowering.
5. Repotting
Repot Zephyranthes candida once every 1-2 years, preferably in spring. This is its growing season, when its vitality is strong and the temperature difference is not large, which not only helps it recover from repotting but also improves the survival rate.
Generally, each bulb of a mature Zephyranthes candida plant can produce pink flowers. Its flowering period is from June to September, and it can bloom 2-3 times each year. It is a plant very suitable for growing in home containers and courtyard flower beds.