How much does a pot of the gymnosperm Podocarpus nagi cost on the market? Reasons for the high price and bedroom care
Podocarpus nagi, also known as Luohan chai and coconut tree, is a common gymnosperm in Guangdong, Guangxi, Sichuan, Hunan and other places. It is widely cultivated for its air-purifying, mosquito-repelling and pollution-resistant effects. So how much does a pot of Podocarpus nagi cost on the market? Why is it so expensive? Can it be placed in the bedroom? How do you care for it?
Latest market prices:
Prices differ for each size, and also depend on the tree shape. Generally, a tree shape of 10 cm costs 200 yuan at our place of origin, 13 cm costs 450 yuan, and 15 cm costs 1000 yuan. If it is a small potted plant, the price will be cheaper, roughly from just over ten yuan to thirty yuan.
Why is it so expensive?
Because Podocarpus nagi is an ancient gymnosperm, known as a “living fossil”, a precious, rare and endangered tree species, and a Class II nationally protected plant in China. Therefore, its price is somewhat higher. However, there are also some small seedlings that are relatively cheap.
Can it be placed in the bedroom?
Podocarpus nagi can be placed indoors in the bedroom. It can be planted in warm spots in parks and green spaces, preferably mixed with other coniferous and broadleaf tree species, or planted in pairs or rows in slightly bright, wind-sheltered spots by tall buildings, and it is also suitable for potted ornamental display. Its branches and leaves are emerald green and glossy, its crown is dense, its tree shape is attractive, its foliage is lush and its shade is deep, and it is easy to grow, making it very suitable for indoor cultivation to decorate the home. But it is best to open the windows for ventilation. Cypress trees can secrete some aromatic substances, and inhaling too much of them is not good.
Care tips:
1. Temperature
The suitable growing temperature for Podocarpus nagi is between 18°C and 26°C. It has poor cold tolerance and can withstand a minimum low temperature of minus 7°C.
2. Light
Podocarpus nagi is fairly shade-tolerant and dislikes scorching sun exposure. From May to September, pay attention to shading. You can set up a shade net or place the flower pot in a spot without direct sunlight for care, so as to avoid strong direct light burning the roots and stems and causing the plant to die.
3. Watering
Podocarpus nagi likes a moist growing environment, but during regular care you must avoid waterlogging. You must pay attention to grasping the proper watering amount and watering frequency. Water again after the soil dries. On ordinary days, you can spray water on the leaves more often to increase air humidity, making the leaf color dark green and glossy.
4. Soil
Podocarpus nagi has relatively strict soil requirements and prefers deep, fertile, loose, acidic sandy loam.
5. Fertilizing
Potted Podocarpus nagi generally does not need fertilizing, but to ensure its leaf color is dark green, you can apply alum fertilizer water 2-3 times during its peak growing season.
6. Pruning
In winter, Podocarpus nagi enters a dormant or semi-dormant state. At this time, you can prune weak branches, diseased and pest-infested branches, overly dense branches, dead branches, etc., which not only maintains an attractive plant shape but also prevents the occurrence of pests and diseases.