Edible Mushroom Cultivation Methods and Tips for Preventing Bud Blasting in Clivia

Bud blasting refers to the phenomenon in which, when a Clivia sends up its flower scape, the scape cannot push through and instead blooms while trapped within the leaf base. The cause of bud blasting should be identified first, then addressed accordingly.

First, adjust the temperature. The optimum temperature for Clivia growth is 15-25°C. Below 15°C, it is very difficult for the flower scape to emerge; above 25°C, scape emergence is also hindered. If the temperature is low, place the pot on a radiator with a thin wooden board under the pot base so the temperature does not exceed 25°C; if the temperature is too high, place the pot 1 m in front of an electric fan to cool it with airflow.

Second, increase nutrients. Clivia needs more phosphorus and potassium fertilizer during its flowering period. If nitrogen fertilizer is applied heavily at this time while phosphorus, potassium fertilizer and trace elements are lacking, scape emergence and flowering will be affected. In autumn, increase the frequency of fertilization, preferably with a liquid fertilizer higher in phosphorus, and once the scape is seen emerging, spray the leaves with a 0.3% potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution.

Third, water moderately. The scape emergence stage requires more water. If water is lacking at this time, it will not only affect scape emergence but also cause the leaves to shrivel, wither, droop and curl. Increase the amount of watering, preferably with magnetized water every 3-5 days; the amount should not be too large, but the potting soil must never be allowed to dry out completely, so as to avoid bud blasting and impaired flowering.

In addition, when the pressure from the leaf sheath and pseudobulb is too great, the scape can also become trapped inside and fail to emerge. A sterilized blade can be used to cut the leaf sheath trapping the scape by 1-2 cm to relieve the pressure and promote scape emergence. (Source: Rural Dazhong)