Methods and techniques for cultivating bonsai of Phlox

Phlox paniculata, also known as Phlox paniculata, is an evergreen shrub or small tree. Its lush green leaves are pleasing to the eye, and many people have potted plants in their homes. Here are some tips and tricks for growing Phalaenopsis bonsai.

1. Soil

The soil for the pot of Phalaenopsis should be loose and fertile, rich in humus, and have good drainage and air permeability. You can use leaf mold or peat soil plus river sand, and mix in a small amount of rotted chicken or cow dung as base fertilizer.

2. Lighting

Phlox likes bright light and avoids strong direct sunlight. It is suitable for planting on north and east-facing balconies. In summer, be careful to avoid direct exposure to strong sunlight outdoors. Insufficient light can easily cause the stems and leaves to grow too long and the leaf sheaths to become dull. At the same time, avoid strong sunlight exposure, especially after a long rain, to prevent the leaves from being burned.

3. Temperature

The growth temperature of Phlox is 15-30℃, of which it can be maintained at 20-30℃ from April to October, and the temperature can be maintained at 13-20℃ from October to April of the following year. In winter, the room temperature should not be lower than 10℃. When the temperature reaches above 32℃ in summer, it should be shaded and placed in a cool place. Water should be sprayed around to cool down and create a cool micro environment. In late autumn and early winter, when the temperature drops to 15℃, it is necessary to keep the plants warm in time to prevent them from being damaged by cold.

4. Watering

Phlox prefers a relatively moist soil and air environment. There must be sufficient water supply during the growing period. Water it after the surface of the potting soil becomes dry. It is okay if the soil is slightly dry, but do not water it too much to avoid waterlogging and root rot. The temperature is high in midsummer, so watering is necessary. In addition, the leaves should be sprayed with water once a day. In late autumn and early winter, control watering when the temperature drops below 15℃. In winter, watering should be reduced, or spraying should be used instead of watering, and the soil in the pot should be kept slightly moist and slightly dry.

5. Fertilization

From April to June, when the plant grows vigorously, it can be irrigated with a thin cake fertilizer liquid once a month. You can also use fermented low-concentration poultry fertilizer liquid. Organic fertilizer should not be allowed to get on the leaves. For household potted plants, you can water them with a mixture of 0.2% urea and 0.1% potassium dihydrogen phosphate, or you can sprinkle or bury a small amount of multi-component slow-release compound fertilizer granules on the surface of the potting soil. Stop applying nitrogen fertilizer after Mid-Autumn Festival and apply phosphorus and potassium fertilizers 1 to 2 times to increase the plant's cold resistance and enable it to survive the winter smoothly. After winter, the plant has stopped growing and it is necessary to stop fertilizing to avoid damaging the roots.

6. Pruning

The philadelphus grows rapidly. If you want it to have many branches and a fuller leaf crown, you can do some shaping and pruning in early summer. Cut back one-third of the branches and wait for new buds to grow before pruning again. After 2 to 3 times of such pruning, you will have more branches, lush foliage, and a beautiful plant shape.

7. Notes

During the rainy season or when there is continuous rainy weather, inspections should be strengthened. If water is found in the pot, it should be poured out in time and the pot should be turned over and the soil changed to avoid leaf falling or root rot. Generally, the soil should be changed every two years in spring.

That’s it