How to manage azaleas during the bud stage? Master these key points
Azaleas prefer a cool and humid climate, and require acidic soil rich in humus, loose, moist, with a pH value between 5.5-5.6. They have certain requirements for light, are not tolerant of exposure to the sun, and are best cared for under semi-shade conditions. The bud stage refers to the period from the beginning of bud formation to the opening of most flowers, generally 90-120 days. The length of this period is greatly related to humidity and care. To make the flowers bloom well and for a long time, attention must be paid to bud stage management. The key points are as follows:
1. Light
Azaleas should not be cared for under semi-shade conditions. In the early bud stage, appropriately increase light, and reduce it during the bud swelling stage. Shading can delay flowering and prolong the flowering period, but it should not be too shady, nor should there be direct strong light. Flowering azaleas exposed to too strong light should be especially carefully ventilated, otherwise they are prone to stuffiness, causing leaf drop and greatly weakening the plant. Air humidity is best at 70-80%.
2. Water
Because azaleas have shallow, fine root systems, they are both afraid of drought and afraid of waterlogging. Improper watering can cause leaf drop in mild cases and death in severe cases. Therefore, whether watering is appropriate is one of the keys to growing azaleas well. During the flowering period, the potting soil should be kept moist, because azaleas produce many flowers and need a large amount of water. If water is insufficient, the petals will droop. Although immediate watering can make them stand up again, the petal edges will fade and then turn brown, resulting in poor ornamental effect. In severe cases, the plant may even fail to produce new shoots after flowering. Water should be applied directly into the pot, and must never be sprayed from above the canopy, to prevent water from entering the flower center, accumulating, and rotting, which shortens the life of the flowers. Generally, water once every two to three days, and check every day to give an appropriate amount of water. It is best to use water close to room temperature, and avoid watering in the early morning and evening; preferably after 10 a.m. and before 4 p.m.
3. Temperature
The timing of flowering is most closely related to temperature. High temperatures cause early flowering, and low temperatures cause late flowering, so controlling temperature can hasten or delay the flowering period. After flowering, the suitable temperature is 10-15°C during the day and 5-10°C at night. Too high a temperature instead promotes shoot growth and reduces flower buds. After flowering, low, cool temperatures help prolong the flowering period. Temperature changes in the care environment should not be too great, and cold air should also be avoided blowing directly on the plants; in windy weather, wind protection is necessary. Attention should be paid to weather changes and preventive measures taken at any time.
4. Pest and disease control
Azaleas like to grow in damp and shaded environments, so there are more opportunities for pest and disease infection, especially Western azaleas. During the bud stage, pay attention to preventing flower rot, so as not to shorten the flowering period or cause flowers to droop, wither early, and fall off. After petals are infected, the diseased part loses its luster, becomes water-soaked, soft, and faded, and finally rots and turns black. When humid, a gray mold layer grows on the surface, affecting ornamental value. Remove spent flowers promptly, and try not to get water on the petals when watering. Spray once a week with 600 times diluted Meiteiling solution or 50% Amobam 800-1000 times diluted solution to control the occurrence and development of the disease. Common pests include red spiders, lace bugs, and bud leaf-rolling worms. If any are found, treat them early; spray 1000-1200 times diluted omethoate.