A Detailed Guide to Growing and Caring for Belgian Indica Azaleas
Because of its very long blooming period, the Belgian indica azalea is loved by growers all over the world. Its flower colors are extremely vivid, red like flames, the blooms are very lush, and the branches and leaves grow very densely. Grown as a potted plant, it looks just like a big rose. So how should this flower be grown? Below, Shuaishuai will tell everyone about the growing methods for the Belgian indica azalea!
1. Growing Methods
1. Fertilizer
During its growth period, it should be fertilized once every half month. Its roots are relatively thin and slender, so they cannot tolerate fertilizer that is too concentrated. It is recommended to apply only nitrogen fertilizer, and not to buy concentrated fertilizer, otherwise the plant's root system will not be able to absorb it, and in serious cases it will burn the roots. During the period after blooming, apply nitrogen fertilizer as much as possible. In order to make it grow more robustly, phosphorus and potassium fertilizer should be applied when it is blooming, as this can make the flowers look better. When the winter temperature is below 15 degrees and the summer temperature is above 35 degrees, fertilization can be stopped, because beyond that temperature range the plant will enter a dormant state.
2. Watering
There are two times each day for watering: one is around 10 a.m., and the second is around 9 p.m. When the weather is hot, do not water at noon, especially during the period from noon to 2 p.m., when the temperature is at its highest. Watering during this period will damage the roots, and the flowers will be harmed as well. Watering should be done thoroughly. If the soil has not dried out completely, do not add water. Be sure to wait until it is completely dry before watering, roughly once every two or three days. However, when it is blooming, do not water too much, otherwise the flowers will fade very quickly. In summer, when the weather is relatively dry and hot, water about twice a day. On rainy days, watering can almost be skipped. The area around the flowerpot should also be watered, as this can increase the humidity in the air. During periods with a lot of rain, pay attention to drainage. Do not let water accumulate in the potting soil, to avoid root rot. After autumn arrives, moisture evaporates quickly, so watering should also be done frequently.
3. Light
The Belgian indica azalea does not have very high light requirements, but the time it receives light during the day must be sufficient, meeting about six hours of light each day. If the summer sunlight is too strong, it can be moved back indoors to prevent scorching. In winter, placing it indoors to receive light is enough; there is no need to put it outside, such as on a balcony or in other light-transmitting places.
2. Precautions
1. The time when it grows fastest is from April to June each year. April to June is the best growing season.
2. For the soil, choose soil with strong air permeability and good drainage, and the soil's fertility must keep up. The more fertile the soil, the better, but concentrated fertilizer must not be applied. Ensure that the soil's pH remains between 5 and 5.5, and choose slightly acidic soil as much as possible.
3. The Belgian indica azalea likes a somewhat humid environment, especially during its growth period. The Belgian indica azalea's growth period is summer and autumn. If the weather is very dry, spray water around it to maintain humidity. It is best to keep humidity at 70 percent to 90 percent.
4. It likes the temperature to remain at 12-25 degrees. If it is from April to September, then it should remain at 18 degrees to 25 degrees, and relatively good ventilation and air permeability should also be maintained. If it can be shaded during the blooming period, the blooming time can be greatly extended.
The above are the growing methods and precautions for the Belgian indica azalea. If the Belgian indica azalea is grown well, its blooming period can also be greatly extended. We need to grasp its growing environment and growth habits, and put more effort into aspects such as fertilizing and watering. Plants can only grow well when their growing environment is good.