A detailed explanation of the planting methods for Cayratia japonica

Cayratia japonica, commonly known as five-clawed dragon, sow thistle, five-dragon grass and so on, is distributed across many provinces in China. Most of it grows beside lower mountain paths, and some is found along ditches or in thickets. When cultivated artificially, it is mostly used in pots or as decoration in courtyards. Below, Qinnong Web introduces the basic planting methods for Cayratia japonica.

I. Propagation methods

The propagation methods for Cayratia japonica are mainly cuttings and sowing:

1. Cutting propagation: Choose a semi-mature branch and cut it at 15 to 16 cm. It can be soaked for a while in carbendazim solution to promote rooting, then planted in a suitable flower pot.

2. Seed propagation: Cayratia japonica has seeds. Five or six days after the flowers fade, the seeds are generally mature. At this time the seeds are brown. After collecting them, they can be dried in the air first, and then sown.

II. Soil selection

Cayratia japonica has low requirements for soil. Ordinary vegetable garden soil and humus soil are both fine. At the very bottom of the flower pot, first spread a layer of coal cinder soil, then home-made fertilizer, that is, fermented fertilizer such as leaf, chicken and rabbit manure, and then spread a layer of humus soil. The potting soil is then ready.

III. Flower pot selection

Because the Cayratia japonica plant is not large, a flower pot with a diameter of about 30 is enough. It is best to use a clay pot. Although it does not look attractive, it is still relatively good for growing flowers. Clay pots have good air permeability and water permeability. The bottom of the flower pot must have a small hole, which is used for drainage. Before filling the pot with soil, find something to cover part of this small hole, but do not cover it completely.

IV. Seedling stage management

If it is sown Cayratia japonica, the seeds will germinate a few days after sowing. When you find the seeds germinating and emerging from the soil surface, remember not to remove the cover, and do not water. After it grows two or three tender leaves, let Cayratia japonica receive light, and then water appropriately. When it grows to about 10 cm and the seedlings become somewhat older, use a garden trowel to lift them out with the roots, transplant them into the prepared flower pot, water once again, and place them in a shady place. After the transplanted seedlings take root, they can be placed in the sun.

V. Daily care

Growing Cayratia japonica is actually very simple. It relatively likes warmth and sunlight. Ensure its light duration, and remember to water in time. Water again when the potting soil is dry. Too much watering will cause root rot. At the same time, remember to loosen the soil to avoid soil compaction. When there are weeds in the flower pot, remove them in time to avoid pests and diseases. If pests and diseases occur, spray pesticide as early as possible. Because the Cayratia japonica plant is relatively small, generally two or three plants are transplanted into one flower pot, and pruned in layers, so it looks a bit more beautiful.

The above is the introduction to the planting methods of Cayratia japonica brought to you by Qinnong Web. In southern regions, Cayratia japonica can be propagated by cuttings all year round, while sowing is mainly chosen in spring. It grows fastest when the temperature reaches 25°C, and by June or July of that year, the mature flowers can be seen in full bloom.