What are the cultivation methods and precautions for Crassula ovata 'Gollum'?
Crassula ovata 'Gollum', also known as the money tree, horseshoe corner, horseshoe red, and jade tree curl, is a foliage-focused succulent that is deeply loved by people. Its leaves are emerald green and evergreen throughout the four seasons. It is mostly used as a decorative piece for offices, living rooms, and balconies, and a small number are used to make succulent bonsai. It is a very popular premium succulent. Many people want to grow Crassula ovata 'Gollum', but do not know its cultivation methods and precautions. Today let us learn about them together.
I. Cultivation methods for Crassula ovata 'Gollum'
1. Soil
It prefers loose, well-aerated, slightly acidic soil. Some leaf mold or peat soil should be mixed into the soil. Note that Crassula ovata 'Gollum' must not grow in alkaline soil for a long time, and it also needs sandy, loose loam with good drainage.
2. Light
It very much loves a sunny environment. Except in summer, Crassula ovata 'Gollum' can generally receive full sun in spring, autumn, and winter, while in spring it can be appropriately shaded to prevent Crassula ovata 'Gollum' from being sunburned.
3. Watering
When watering normally, it is also essential to ensure the water is weakly acidic. During the summer dormant period, water less or even not at all; during the growing period, water can be sprayed on the leaves to increase humidity. Be careful never to water too much.
4. Fertilizing
Every plant needs fertilizer to supply its growth. Although Crassula ovata 'Gollum' does not like heavy fertilizer, it still needs an appropriate amount of organic or chemical fertilizer each month, such as diluted cake fertilizer water and diammonium water. To keep its soil acidic, potassium dihydrogen phosphate or ferrous sulfate can be used to adjust it, applied once a month.
5. Temperature
It is relatively tolerant of high temperatures, but the temperature should not exceed 35°C. At the same time, watering should be gradually stopped, and when autumn arrives, watering can gradually resume. In winter, the temperature can be kept above 5°C. If the temperature falls below 5°C, watering must be stopped, otherwise frost damage may occur.
II. Precautions for cultivating Crassula ovata 'Gollum'
1. Crassula ovata 'Gollum' is generally propagated by stem cuttings (beheading). This can be done throughout the year. Let the wound dry, then insert the cutting into slightly moist soil and wait for it to root. Cut a section of healthy fleshy stem for cuttings, insert it into coarse sand sterilized with boiling water or directly into plain soil. When inserting, first make a hole to avoid damaging the cutting.It roots in about half a month, and after one month it can be transplanted. When transplanting, injure the roots as little as possible and keep more soil around them. Place it in a semi-shaded spot to recover, and once the leaves are firm and new leaves grow, normal care can be resumed.
2. Crassula ovata 'Gollum' can be repotted about once every 2 years. Each time, the pot diameter should be about 10cm larger than the crown width, and the money tree will grow faster. During the growing period, it can be fertilized once a month with diluted cake fertilizer water or a special succulent fertilizer, and the money tree will quickly fill the pot.
3. Crassula ovata 'Gollum' likes a dry, acidic potting soil environment, generally using a mix of leaf mold, peat, and granules. It requires relatively abundant sunlight, so the leaf color will show red and be more beautiful and vivid. Lack of light will cause the leaves to become loose and lack luster. Normally, water thoroughly only after the soil has dried out, and do not allow water to accumulate. In winter, placing it in an environment above 5°C is relatively safe for overwintering. If the temperature is below 5°C, then watering should be cut off.