How to plant crape myrtle seeds? Detailed explanation of sowing methods and steps
Everyone must be very familiar with crape myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica). There are now many varieties of crape myrtle, and each variety has a relatively wide planting area across various regions of China. Crape myrtle not only has strong ornamental value but also certain medicinal effects. When planting crape myrtle, how to propagate it is quite important. Among the common propagation methods is sowing propagation, so how should crape myrtle seeds be planted? Below, the editor brings you the simple process of seed propagation. Let's take a look!
1. Land preparation and bed making
Crape myrtle has relatively strong growth ability and can quickly adapt to various soils, and it can grow in drier and colder environments. However, if artificial cultivation is intended to improve the ornamental value of crape myrtle, then the first thing is still to choose deep soil with sufficient fertility and slightly acidic sandy soil. A suitable environment can ensure robust growth of crape myrtle, enhance flower quality, and increase the flowering rate. After selecting the land, carry out land preparation work, loosen and level the soil, then control the width well, dig the sowing furrows, apply sufficient base fertilizer, and prepare for sowing.
2. Seed collection and seed soaking
The flowering period of crape myrtle is relatively long compared with other flowers, generally about 2-4 months, existing in the form of simultaneous flowers and fruits. In late autumn each year, when the fruit color gradually darkens and individual fruits begin to crack, harvest them in time. After harvesting, take out the seeds and wash off the pulp mucus on the seed coat. In order to improve the seed germination rate and advance the germination time, before sowing, the seeds need to be subjected to germination promotion and disinfection work. First soak the seeds in potassium permanganate solution for about 24-48 hours, then wash off the residual liquid medicine on the seeds, and then put the seeds into warm water at about 48 degrees for the same length of time. After soaking, dry them and prepare for sowing.
3. Sow at the right time
The sowing time of crape myrtle is generally in spring. Spread the seeds comprehensively and evenly into the previously prepared seedbed. Place two seeds about every 4 cm. After sowing, cover with about 3 cm of fine soil to prevent the seeds from being exposed to the air. They will germinate after about half a month. After emergence, keep the soil moist and water in time. When the seedlings grow about two true leaves, thin them in time to provide sufficient growth space for all robust seedlings. Improve the permeability of the seedbed, promote ventilation, and provide sufficient light.
4. Seedling management
During the seedling growth period, management work must be done well. During high-temperature and drought in summer, topdressing should be done in time, and the number of topdressings must not be less than two. Also pay attention to the soil moisture content and water frequently, but also be careful not to overdo it, to prevent severe water accumulation, which can cause seedling root rot and affect normal growth. Under normal management, generally in the winter of the same year, the seedlings can grow to about 65 cm, and strong young trees can also bloom. Then in winter, do a good job of clearing the garden, prune the young trees to help them overwinter, and then in the spring of the second year, transplant them appropriately according to the actual situation.
The above is a brief introduction to how to plant crape myrtle seeds. Crape myrtle also has various propagation methods such as cutting propagation and grafting propagation. The main thing is still to choose a suitable propagation method according to your own planting situation, ensure normal growth, and improve planting benefits. That is all for today's introduction. This article is for reference only, and I hope it can help everyone!