How to grow Cuncunjin (dried branches) in water? With an introduction to its botanical name
Cun Cun Jin, whose scientific name is Salix leucopithecia (silver bud willow), also known as cotton willow, is a deciduous shrub in the genus Salix of the family Salicaceae. Its appearance is very distinctive: the slender branches are densely covered with flower buds, and before they open, the buds are wrapped in a layer of silvery white fuzz. As the buds gradually open, small golden-yellow flowers poke out from the fuzz, scattered like stars and dazzlingly bright, giving a brilliant visual treat, and it is no wonder it has been given such a lovely name as "Cun Cun Jin" (inch by inch of gold).
The flowering period of Cun Cun Jin is usually in winter and early spring, lasting about 20 - 30days. Its ornamental period is relatively long, and whether it is used as a cut flower in a vase or grown as a potted plant, it can add bright color to an indoor environment for a period of time.
Many people choose to buy dried branches of Cun Cun Jin to decorate their homes. Caring for dried branches is actually not complicated. First, prepare a clean and suitable container; generally a vase of moderate height will do. Then soak the dried branches in clean water for 2 - 3hours so the branches fully absorb water; this step can awaken the "sleeping" dried branches. After soaking, take the branches out and place them in a vase with an appropriate amount of clean water, with the water level at about one third of the vase's height. Replace the clean water once every 2 - 3days to keep the water clean and provide the dried branches with sufficient water.
If you want to extend the flowering period, you can add a small amount of nutrient solution or flower preservative to the water, using the amount specified in the instructions. As for placement, put it in a place with bright light but away from direct sunlight, and away from heat sources and drafts; this will keep the dried branches of Cun Cun Jin in good condition and allow them to bloom into beautiful flowers.
If it is a potted Cun Cun Jin, daily care requires more attention. As for soil, choose loose, fertile, well-drained soil; you can mix leaf mold, garden soil and river sand in a ratio of 3:2:1. Potted Cun Cun Jin likes ample light, so place it in a sunny spot such as a balcony or windowsill, ensuring at least 4 - 6hours of light per day, which promotes plant growth and flower bud differentiation. However, during the high temperatures of summer, provide appropriate shade to avoid strong light scorching the leaves.
Watering should follow the principle of "water when dry, and water thoroughly": that is, wait until the soil surface is dry before watering, and water thoroughly each time, but avoid waterlogging, otherwise it can easily cause root rot. During the growing season, apply a diluted liquid fertilizer once a month to provide the plant with sufficient nutrients and promote its growth. In winter, the plant enters dormancy, so reduce the frequency of watering and fertilizing.
In addition, potted Cun Cun Jin also needs regular pruning. After the flowers fade, promptly cut off the spent flowers and dead branches to reduce nutrient consumption. At the same time, shorten overly long branches to keep the plant looking attractive and promote the growth of side branches, making the plant shape fuller. Every 1 - 2years, you also need to repot the potted Cun Cun Jin and replace the soil to provide the plant with a better growing environment.