How to grow crape myrtle seeds? A detailed guide to the latest planting methods
You are surely all very familiar with crape myrtle. There are now many varieties of crape myrtle, and each variety has a relatively wide planting area across all parts of our country. Crape myrtle not only has strong ornamental value, but also has certain medicinal effects. When growing crape myrtle, how to propagate it is relatively important. Among the common propagation methods is seed propagation, so how should crape myrtle seeds be grown? Below, the editor brings you the simple process of seed propagation. Let's take a look!
1. Land preparation and bed making
Crape myrtle has relatively strong growth ability and can adapt quickly to various soils. It can grow in relatively dry and cold environments. However, if artificial cultivation is intended to improve the ornamental value of crape myrtle, then the first step is still to choose slightly acidic sandy soil with deep soil and sufficient fertility. A suitable environment can ensure robust growth of crape myrtle, enhance flower quality, and increase the flowering rate. After choosing the land, carry out land preparation work, loosen and level the soil, then control the width and dig the sowing furrows, apply sufficient base fertilizer, and prepare for sowing.
2. Seed collection and seed soaking
The flowering period of crape myrtle is relatively long compared with other flowers, generally about 2-4 months, existing in a form where flowers and fruits coexist. In late autumn each year, when the fruit color gradually deepens and individual fruits begin to split, harvest them in time. After harvesting, take out the seeds and clean the pulp mucus on the seed coats. In order to improve the seed germination rate and advance the germination time, the seeds must be subjected to germination promotion and disinfection work before sowing. First, soak the seeds in a potassium permanganate solution for about 24-48 hours, then clean off the residual liquid medicine on the seeds, and then soak the seeds in warm water at about 48 degrees for the same length of time. After soaking, dry them and prepare for sowing.
3. Sow at the right time
The sowing time for crape myrtle is generally in spring. Spread the seeds fully and evenly into the previously prepared seedbed. Place two seeds about every 4 cm. After sowing, cover with about 3 cm of fine soil to prevent the seeds from being exposed to the air. They will germinate after about half a month. After seedlings emerge, keep the soil moist and water in time. When the seedlings grow about two true leaves, thin them in time to provide sufficient growing space for all robust seedlings. Improve the permeability of the seedbed, promote ventilation, and provide sufficient light.
4. Seedling management
Management work must be done well during the seedling growth period. During high-temperature and drought in summer, topdressing should be done in time, and the number of topdressings must not be less than two. Also pay attention to soil moisture content and water frequently, but also be careful not to overwater, to prevent severe water accumulation, which can cause seedling root rot and affect normal growth. Under normal management, generally in the winter of the same year, the seedlings can grow to about 65 cm, and stronger young trees can also bloom. Then in winter, do a good job of clearing the garden, prune the young trees to help them overwinter, and then in the spring of the second year, transplant appropriately according to actual conditions.
The above is a brief introduction to how to grow crape myrtle seeds. Crape myrtle also has various propagation methods such as cutting propagation and grafting propagation. The main thing is still to choose a suitable propagation method according to your own planting situation, ensure normal growth, and improve planting benefits. That is all for today's introduction. This article is for reference only, and I hope it can help everyone!