How to grow a Corpuscularia lehmannii? Master the cultivation methods to make it grow well
Corpuscularia lehmannii, also known as xunboju, is a succulent plant of the genus Corpuscularia in the family Aizoaceae, native to the southwestern region of South Africa. As a potted plant it is suitable for indoor viewing in winter, and can also be grown as a hanging basket plant, making it look even more full of vitality and presenting a festive atmosphere. It is also often used to arrange specialized succulent gardens. Below, let us take a look together at the cultivation methods and precautions for Corpuscularia lehmannii!
Growth habits of Corpuscularia lehmannii
Corpuscularia lehmannii prefers a warm, dry environment with plenty of sunlight. It is not cold-tolerant, is drought-tolerant, and fears high temperatures. In summer, pay attention to shading, otherwise the surface tends to wrinkle. It requires fertile, loose sandy loam soil, and in winter the temperature should not be lower than 15°C.
Propagation methods of Corpuscularia lehmannii
Corpuscularia lehmannii is commonly propagated by sowing and cuttings. Sowing is generally done indoors in pots from April to May, and germination occurs about 10 days after sowing. The seedlings have fine, shallow roots and need to be watered carefully, and should be transplanted after 1 month. Cuttings are best taken in spring and autumn. Select plump stem nodes, cut them into 8-10 cm lengths, and insert them into a sand bed. Roots can form in about 15-20 days, and when the roots are 2-3 cm long they can be planted in pots.
How to cultivate a Corpuscularia lehmannii well?
1. Soil: For cultivating Corpuscularia lehmannii, loose and breathable sandy soil is best. Of course, it does not necessarily have to be sandy soil; the soil mix can be the same as for other succulents.
2. Environment: Corpuscularia lehmannii should be kept in an environment with plenty of sunlight. If it is newly planted, it can be placed in a cool, ventilated place to recover.
3. Watering: Corpuscularia lehmannii does not need the soil to remain moist for a long time; the soil should be kept on the dry side. Therefore, watering requires restraint. It is drought-tolerant and not easily killed by drought, but is prone to root rot due to water accumulation.
4. Pests and diseases: When potted Corpuscularia lehmannii is exposed to excessive humidity, root-knot nematode disease often occurs, which can be controlled with 3% carbofuran granules. Among insect pests, there is damage from scale insects, which can be sprayed and killed with a 1500-fold dilution of 55% fenitrothion emulsifiable concentrate.
Four-season care of Corpuscularia lehmannii
1. Spring: Repot every spring and prune the whole plant, adding a mixed soil composed of fertile peat soil or leaf mold and coarse sand, then lightly spray with water. During the spring growth period, keep the potting soil from drying out, and spray water on the ground frequently to maintain a certain air humidity.
2. Summer: In summer, Corpuscularia lehmannii enters a semi-dormant state. It can be placed in a semi-shaded area for care, keeping the potting soil from becoming excessively dry.
3. Autumn: After autumn, Corpuscularia lehmannii begins to grow again. Fertilize once every half month.
4. Winter: As winter approaches, the stems and leaves of Corpuscularia lehmannii enter a vigorous growth period and begin to bloom. When the indoor room temperature is kept at 15-20°C in winter, it blooms continuously. After 2-3 years in a pot, it needs to be re-propagated by cuttings for renewal.
Precautions for Corpuscularia lehmannii
1. If Corpuscularia lehmannii is potted, the soil in its pot needs to drain and be ventilated, and must not accumulate water. The soil should not be acidic; neutral is fine. The soil should not contain too much humus; ordinary soil is enough. The size of the pot depends on the length and size of its roots.
2. Corpuscularia lehmannii does not like being wet or dry. It is generally recommended to water only when the soil is dry. In summer, a certain humidity should be maintained, and more water can be sprayed on the leaves.
3. For the growth of Corpuscularia lehmannii, it is generally recommended to use half sunlight. In summer, because the temperature is too high, it is recommended to place it in a cool place for cultivation, keeping the soil from drying out. In spring and autumn, growth is vigorous, so appropriate sunlight can be given.
4. During the growth period of Corpuscularia lehmannii, it is generally recommended to fertilize in spring and autumn. The fertilizer should be a thin fertilizer, applied once every half month or 1 month.
5. The recommended growing temperature for Corpuscularia lehmannii is around 20°C. If it is below 15°C, it will not grow, but if it is below 5°C, then it will stop growing and may even develop wrinkles. In summer, place it in a ventilated and cool place as much as possible.