How to care for florist's azaleas? Detailed guide to growing methods and precautions
I. Growing methods
1. Fertilizer
During its growth period, apply fertilizer once every fifteen days. Its roots are relatively thin, so the fertilizer must not be too concentrated, otherwise it cannot absorb it, and in severe cases the branches and leaves will scorch. If it is after flowering, apply nitrogen fertilizer. To make it more robust, from the end of August when flower buds appear until flowering, apply phosphorus and potassium fertilizer, which can make the flowers look better. When the winter temperature is below 15°C or during the hot summer season, no fertilizer is needed.
2. Watering
It is best to water in the morning or evening. Be careful not to water at noon when the weather is hot, because the roots will be damaged and the flowers will also be harmed. You should water thoroughly, and do not water if there is moisture. In spring and autumn, water more, once every two or three days, but when it is flowering it must not be too much, otherwise the flowers will quickly wither. Summer is the growing season, and the air is relatively dry, so water once or twice. If there is no rain for a long time, spray water on the leaves, and also water around the flower pot, which can increase humidity. In rainy weather, drain the accumulated water. After autumn arrives, water still evaporates quickly, so water frequently as well. When flower buds grow, control water to help its differentiation. After October, move it indoors and reduce water, which can help the tissues grow and resist cold.
II. Precautions
1. Its fastest growth period is from April to June, which is the best season.
2. It likes fertile soil with strong air permeability and drainage, such as sandy soil. You can also mix it yourself by combining rotten leaves, animal manure, garden soil and sand. It is best to ensure its pH value is 5-5.5, and it should be on the acidic side.
3. It likes a moist and wet environment. During its growth period, that is, summer and autumn, if it is very hot and very dry, spray water for it and the surrounding environment to ensure normal humidity, preferably 70-90 percent. If it is too dry, its leaves will not be so green, and may even fall off.
4. It likes a temperature of 12 to 25°C. From April to September, it needs 18 to 25°C, and from October to March of the following year, it needs 12 to 18°C. It likes the sun, but cannot have too strong light. During spring and autumn, give it about 50 percent shade, and it also needs air circulation and ventilation. Only let it receive light in the morning and evening. If it does not see light for a long time, although the leaves will grow very densely, it will not bloom. If the sunlight can be blocked during the flowering period, this can lengthen the flowering time.