How to choose the best Gloxinia? A detailed guide to growing and propagation methods
When people see a plant called Gloxinia (Sinningia speciosa) at the flower market, their first impression is that it is very unfamiliar, because in their memory this may be a rare flower. But if you mention "Liuxueni", then many flower lovers will start to recognize it. This flowering plant is native to Brazil and is a tropical plant. Once its flowers fully bloom, they are unforgettable, and its flowers look somewhat as elegant as peonies, while also coming in many colors, with very good ornamental value.
How do you choose a good pot of Gloxinia at the flower market? Generally speaking, both potted plants and tubers are available for purchase. When choosing a potted plant, it is best to choose one that is 50% in bloom and 50% in bud.
When choosing a good tuber, you can pick up a ruler and measure its diameter. It is best to choose one with a diameter of no less than 2 cm, fresh, plump, with clean skin, and a heavy, firm feel.
After buying it and bringing it home, generally there is no need to repot it. If you choose tubers, you can repot them when they sprout. It is generally recommended to choose a flowerpot with a diameter of 12-15 cm. A mixed soil of fertile garden soil, leaf mold, and river sand is fine.
For daily watering, follow the principle of keeping the soil moist as the best condition. During the flowering period, water twice a week. When watering, do not pour water from above the flowers, as this can easily cause "Mediterranean" problems. It is recommended to pour from the edge of the pot or through gaps between the leaves. Only in this way can the potting soil be evenly replenished with water. The principles of watering differ across the four seasons, and it is recommended to control it according to the overall temperature. You can touch the soil to judge the degree of dryness. For example, in summer or during the growing season, water is consumed relatively quickly, so more watering is needed. When autumn and winter arrive, the frequency of watering should be reduced.
The most important parts of growing flowers are fertilizing and pruning. During the growing season of Gloxinia, it is recommended to fertilize once every 2 weeks. The fertilizer solution should be applied in the same way as watering, and it must never stain the leaves. For pruning, if you do not keep seeds after flowering, promptly prune the spent flower stems. This can encourage new flower stems to form and allow the plant to continue blooming and the tuber to develop. At the same time, yellow leaves and spent flowers should be removed promptly.