How much do Epiphyllum seeds cost? Detailed planting methods
Epiphyllum, also known as Qionghua, Guizaihua, Weituohua, etc., is an epiphytic succulent shrub of the genus Epiphyllum in the cactus family, native to the tropical deserts from Mexico to Brazil in the Americas, and enjoys the reputation of “Beauty under the Moon”. Its entire flowering process lasts only about 4 hours, hence the saying “a flash in the pan” (Epiphyllum appearing briefly). It is now commonly cultivated in various provinces and regions of China. Let us take a look at Epiphyllum seed prices and planting methods together below!
How much does one Epiphyllum seed cost?
The price of Epiphyllum seeds is about 0.1 to 0.2 yuan per seed, but prices vary depending on seed quality, variety and market conditions. After flowering, Epiphyllum produces many seeds. After collecting the seeds, soak them in water, and once the shells become soft they can be planted. The soil should be kept moist, and generally germination occurs about 2 to 3 weeks after sowing. However, Epiphyllum grown from seed grows slowly, taking 4 to 5 years from sowing to flowering, and is often used for hybrid breeding. Production cultivation mostly uses cuttings for propagation.
The growing habits of Epiphyllum
1. Soil: Epiphyllum prefers loose, fertile, well-drained soil. When potting, the growing medium can be a mix of 2 parts peat soil and 1 part coarse sand and 1 part cinder, with sufficient base fertilizer applied.
2. Humidity: Epiphyllum is a shade-loving plant. In summer, potted Epiphyllum can be placed under tree shade or under eaves, but should avoid being hit by rainwater, so as to prevent the plant from exposing its roots and toppling over, which would affect growth.
3. Temperature: Epiphyllum does not have high temperature requirements. In spring and summer, its suitable growing temperature is 21 to 24°C during the day and 16 to 18°C at night. In winter, it should be moved into a greenhouse and placed in a sunny spot, with the temperature kept at 10 to 13°C.
4. Light: Epiphyllum prefers sunny, warm environments. But it should not be exposed to harsh sun. On hot summer days it should be placed under a shade screen for care, or cultivated in a place without direct sunlight.
Planting methods for Epiphyllum
1. Soil: Epiphyllum cultivation does not have high soil requirements, but the potting soil should preferably be slightly acidic sandy soil rich in humus, with good drainage and loose and fertile texture, otherwise roots are prone to rot. A commonly used mix is 2 parts peat soil and 1 part coarse sand and 1 part cinder.
2. Light: Epiphyllum prefers partial shade. In spring and autumn, place it outdoors in a semi-shaded spot to prevent direct sunlight. In summer, it is best placed indoors in a bright, well-ventilated spot, or on a north-facing balcony or under the shade of a large tree, but strong light exposure should be avoided.
3. Watering: In spring and autumn, water Epiphyllum by the "dry-wet" principle. In summer, water a little more, but the pot must not accumulate water, otherwise the roots rot easily. In dry, hot seasons, spray the plant with clean water once each morning and evening to increase air humidity, which helps growth and flowering.
4. Fertilizing: Epiphyllum prefers fertilizer. Rotted organic fertilizer plus a small amount of bone meal or superphosphate is best. During the growing period, apply dilute cake fertilizer water once every half month. After buds appear, apply 1 to 2 additional doses of 0.2% potassium dihydrogen phosphate. After the flowers fade, apply 1 to 2 more doses of liquid fertilizer.
5. Pruning: Proper pruning of Epiphyllum can keep its overall appearance attractive. Generally, after flowering, remove old branches promptly, thin out weak buds at the top and upper part of the modified stems, and keep the strong buds in the middle and lower parts. At the same time, because the leaf-like stems of Epiphyllum are weak, supports should be set up.
Precautions for Epiphyllum
1. Epiphyllum is not cold-tolerant. Before “Frost's Descent” (mid-October), it needs to be moved indoors for the winter. A room temperature of about 15°C is suitable for overwintering, and it can also overwinter safely if kept above 5°C.
2. Although Epiphyllum likes sunlight, it is also afraid of harsh sun. Harsh sun makes the stems and branches turn yellow. In summer, the temperature should not exceed 35°C, otherwise the plant is prone to shriveling and scale insects and other problems may occur.
3. When watering Epiphyllum indoors in winter, the amount of water must be controlled. The potting soil should preferably be kept on the dry side. Generally, water once every 10 to 15 days, and this can be done at noon on a sunny day. In severe cold, watering should be stopped.