How to care for the tropical exclusive bonsai Cryptanthus: to grow it well, fertilizing and soil requirements are key

Cryptanthus, also known as purple-striped bromeliad, mainly originates from tropical regions, such as southern Brazil and other places. Its above-ground rhizome is almost negligible, so the exposed part of the plant usually consists of dozens of leaves of similar size, with the leaves mostly alternating brown and green. Potted Cryptanthus is a small plant, so its rather delicate form is also very suitable for ornamental use; it is a good choice for decorating the living room and bedroom.

I. Cultivation of Cryptanthus

Generally speaking, Cryptanthus can be propagated by sowing or cuttings. Because its seeds are relatively difficult to obtain, Cryptanthus seeds usually require artificial methods to be obtained, so potted Cryptanthus is usually grown by cuttings. Unlike most plants, which are propagated by cuttings taken from branches, Cryptanthus cuttings use offset-bud cuttings. The specific method is to cut from the rhizome part of the plant a leaf about 10 cm long with an offset bud, then disinfect the wound on the leaf to prevent bacterial infection. After the wound heals, insert it into the soil. Pour in an appropriate amount of water, and after one to two months, new roots can be seen in the pot. At this point, place the pot in a suitable spot for growth, and then carry out normal management.

II. Care of Cryptanthus

1. Soil requirements

Cryptanthus has relatively low soil requirements. If growing it as a household potted plant, it is best to choose relatively fertile soil, because more fertile soil is more favorable for plant growth, while poorer soil usually makes Cryptanthus grow more slowly. However, no matter which potting soil is chosen, the soil must have good air permeability. In addition, if conditions allow, it is best to add garden soil, river sand, humus soil, etc. The comprehensive capacity of a mixed soil made from multiple types of soil is also better than that of a single soil, and the probability of problems with the potting soil will be greatly reduced.

2. Light requirements

Light is especially important for the growth of Cryptanthus, directly affecting its leaf growth, plant form and the luster of the flowers. Generally speaking, Cryptanthus can grow under full sun conditions. For example, in spring and autumn, maintaining about 10 hours of light per day is very beneficial to the growth of Cryptanthus. However, the light should not be too strong. When summer comes, potted Cryptanthus growing in the sun needs shading measures, otherwise the plant is easily sunburned.

3. Water conditions

Water is also crucial for Cryptanthus. The water applied to the pot generally should not be tap water used directly for watering, but should be left to stand for two to three days before being added. On the other hand, because Cryptanthus is very afraid of waterlogging, when watering, also note that the speed should not be too fast. Usually water once every three days or so. From early summer to early autumn, the amount of watering should be appropriately increased. During this period, it is best to water in the early morning every day, which is most beneficial to the growth of Cryptanthus.

4. Fertilizing requirements

Like most plants, compound organic fertilizer should be chosen as the fertilizer for Cryptanthus. Whether nitrogen fertilizer or phosphorus and potassium fertilizer, all should be applied evenly to the potting soil. Generally, nitrogen fertilizer can be slightly more, because it can promote the growth of leaves and rhizomes.

Cryptanthus at the seedling stage should not be fertilized too much. Generally, it is fertilized only once every half a month to a month. When the plant has developed to a certain stage, such as when the leaves are more than 8 cm long, the amount of fertilizer can be gradually increased, but the principle of "light fertilizer applied frequently" should be maintained. Before the plant's flowering period, fertilization can be stopped.