How to grow Ranunculus asiaticus (Persian buttercup)? The latest cultivation methods and precautions
After seeing the title, did fellow flower lovers immediately think of the celery we often eat? But it is not celery. Its leaves look very much like celery, and its flowers look like peonies, so people named it Ranunculus asiaticus (Persian buttercup). There are many varieties of this type of peony-like flower, and the leaf colors vary widely. Today, Shuaishuai will introduce the cultivation methods and precautions for Ranunculus asiaticus to fellow flower lovers. Let's take a look!
I. Cultivation methods
1. Light management
Although Ranunculus asiaticus likes light, it cannot tolerate strong light exposure, so in the hot summer we need to provide shading measures to prevent intense sunlight from scorching it. Except in summer, it can be given full light in all other seasons, which allows its flower buds to differentiate as early as possible and thus advance the flowering period. If the light duration is too short, the flowering period will be delayed, side buds will grow wildly, more flower buds will germinate, and the number of flowers will increase accordingly. It can be seen that the longer the plant's light duration, the more the flowering period can be advanced, but short light can increase flower quantity. Each has its own advantage, so when choosing light for it, we can choose from the two perspectives of flowering period and flower quantity.
2. Water management
This flower is different from other flowers. Most flowers may like a humid environment, but Ranunculus asiaticus is very different. Not only does it not like it, it is afraid of moisture, and it is tolerant of drought. However, its drought tolerance has a certain limit, and it cannot be too dry. Especially in the late growth stage, if the soil is too dry, it will enter a dormant state, thereby affecting the quality of the bulbs. After planting, it should be given a first thorough watering, and each watering must be timely. The soil must not be too dry or too wet, and the standard is simply to ensure that the leaves do not wilt.
3. Fertilizer management
Before planting it, fully apply enough base fertilizer. Generally, commonly used ones include cake fertilizer or livestock manure. Then after transplanting, once the plant grows new leaves, we can appropriately apply additional fertilizer, once every 7 days. In winter, attention should be paid to changing the fertilizer. Chlorine-containing compound fertilizer is prohibited. After it blooms, apply potassium fertilizer 1-2 more times to facilitate bulb growth.
4. Temperature management
It likes cool shade, and the temperature level must be well controlled. The temperature difference between day and night should not be too large. If it is very cold at night, be sure to bring the flower back into the bedroom, or wrap it with insulating plastic film. During the day, control the temperature at 15°C to 20°C, and at night 7-8°C is sufficient.
5. Flowering period management
After it blooms, appropriately adjust the indoor temperature. 15°C is the optimal temperature, which can extend the flowering period. Diseased plants and spent flowers should be dealt with promptly, and watering should be even, with balanced dry and wet conditions.
II. Precautions
1. Water control
As mentioned earlier, although it is very drought-tolerant, it should not be in an overly dry environment. Especially in the late growth stage, even more attention should be paid to ensuring sufficient and moderate water, otherwise it will affect bulb growth.
2. Summer withering
Summer temperatures are high, which can easily cause flowers and leaves to dry up. If this happens, do not panic; it is very normal. Many plants are in a dormant state in summer. At this time, we can cut off the dead stems and leaves, then place it in a cool place and let it slowly air-dry.
The above are the cultivation methods and precautions for Ranunculus asiaticus. The biggest difference between this flower and other flowers is that it is very afraid of moisture, so it cannot be watered frequently like other moisture-loving flowers. It is enough to keep the potting soil and leaves from being dry. Ranunculus asiaticus is still quite easy to grow. It does not have any very serious pests or diseases, so cultivation saves a lot of unnecessary trouble.