Cultivation methods and precautions of Tortoiseshell Peony

1. Maintenance methods

1. Flower pot selection: The tortoiseshell peony has very thick taproots, so a deeper flower pot is more suitable for it. The flowerpot should have good water permeability. You can choose a clay pot or a tile pot for planting. It would be better if it has holes in the bottom. Remember not to use plastic pots. It is recommended to replace the flower pots every year.

2. Substrate selection: It is more suitable for lime-containing soil and sandy soil. When planting, you can smash the stones into blocks and put them into the flowerpots, which can increase the air permeability of the soil. Choose sandy soil to improve drainage, but also make sure the soil is slightly acidic when planting.

3. Temperature management: It prefers a warm environment, and the temperature can generally be controlled between 15-23℃. The sunlight is relatively strong in summer, so appropriate shade and cooling should be provided. The temperature should not exceed 25℃. In winter, the temperature should be kept above 5℃.

4. Nutrient management: It has a low demand for nutrients and does not require frequent fertilization. On average, apply low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus and potassium compound fertilizer once every 15 days. It is best to dilute the fertilizer in a container before watering. The fertilizer should not be too concentrated. To protect its ornamental value, fertilize it at the roots and avoid spreading it on the flowers and leaves.

2. Breeding techniques

1. Repotting: In order to maintain the nutrients it needs for growth, it is necessary to repot every one or two years. The pot you change every other year should be larger than the previous one to ensure that it has sufficient growing space.

2. Pruning: If yellow, dry or rotten leaves appear during the growth period, they should be pruned in time to avoid the spread of bacteria. For newly bought plants, the roots need to be trimmed thoroughly, removing miscellaneous roots and rotten roots, leaving only the main root, and placed in a cool and ventilated place to dry before putting it into the pot.

3. Problem Treatment

1. Powdery mildew: Due to excessive moisture, mold and powdery mildew are prone to occur. After discovery, seriously infested leaves should be removed to prevent infection. Spray water mixed with lime sulfur in proportion for treatment.

2. Scale insects: Scale insects are the most common pest of cacti and are prone to occur in greenhouses or plastic sheds. The hatching period is from April to September every year, when the number of insects increases greatly. They survive by sucking plant sap, causing the host to turn yellow or even die. Once discovered, they should be removed manually immediately and the plants should be placed in a ventilated and well-lit place. If necessary, chemical treatment can be used.

IV. Other issues

1. Can it be grown at home: It will grow well in a warm and ventilated environment. It is suitable to be raised in a warm and ventilated home. In addition, its flowers are very beautiful and suitable for viewing at home.

2. Can it be given as a gift: It belongs to the Cactaceae family and is an expert in absorbing radiation. Placing it next to the computer can reduce the computer's radiation to the human body. It is suitable to give it as a gift to office workers!