A Detailed Guide to When to Sow February Orchid and How to Grow It in Pots

February orchid is also called Zhuge Cai, and it is a flower with very strong vitality. The reason it is called February orchid is that it is a plant that blooms in February, but by the lunar calendar. February orchid often appears in parks, residential communities, scenic spots and other places. It is a widely used ornamental flower, not only for its bright colors and seas of purple blooms, but also for its long flowering period. It grows well without much care. So when is February orchid generally sown? And what are the growing methods?

1. When is February orchid generally sown?

February orchid is not sown in February, but in summer and autumn, and generally 8-9 months is the most suitable time. Generally speaking, 1g of seed contains about more than 300 seeds, and one mu of land needs about 2 jin.

The reason February orchid is often used outdoors is that it has strong adaptability to the environment and can grow well even in cold winter. It can bloom beautifully the following year without much care. February orchid also has low soil requirements and can adapt even on barren slopes, as long as there is some light. At the same time, February orchid rarely suffers from pests and diseases and is shade-tolerant, making it an ideal flower for planting and able to provide a good landscape effect.

2. What are the methods for growing February orchid in pots?

1. Soil requirements

As mentioned above, February orchid has low soil requirements when cultivated in open ground, but the soil requirements for pot cultivation are higher. Generally, sandy soil with good drainage, good looseness and relative fertility is suitable. Remember, sufficient base fertilizer must be placed in the pot.

2. Watering

When watering potted February orchid, water when the soil is dry and let it dry out between waterings. Usually keep the potting soil moist but leaning dry. Do not water too much at one time, so as to avoid waterlogging and root damage. Do not wait until the soil is completely dry before watering; generally water when the surface is slightly dry. Increase the frequency in summer and reduce the frequency and amount of water in winter.

3. Light conditions

Generally speaking, February orchid can grow very well with just scattered light. We can move it outdoors appropriately before the flowering period, but it does not need long sunlight. After the flowering period, it can be kept indoors.

4. Suitable temperature

February orchid is cold-resistant and can grow well even when the temperature is too low. Generally, around 25°C is best. If the summer temperature is too high, move it indoors to a cool place for care.

5. Pruning

To maintain good ornamental value, February orchid must be pruned. At the same time, pruning overly dense plants can ensure better growth and more balanced nutrients.

6. Fertilizing

As a flower that likes fertilizer, February orchid needs topdressing in addition to base fertilizer. Generally, topdressing is needed during the seedling-strengthening stage, bud stage, after flowering, and fruit-setting stage.

7. Preventing pests and diseases

Common pests in February orchid cultivation include cabbage caterpillars, aphids, leafminers, snails and others. If pests are found, correct treatment methods should be used and medication should be applied in time.

In summary, February orchid is a very easy flower to grow and is a good choice for people who love flowers but are not good at growing them. Plant a pot quickly; it can not only decorate the interior, but also add a bit of interest to life.