Cultivation techniques and precautions for weeping jasmine

Weeping Jasmine is also known as Brazilian Jasmine, Mirabilis jalapa, butterfly flower, etc. It is an evergreen shrub of the genus Mirabilis of the Solanaceae family. It is known for its unique flower shape, rich colors and elegant drooping flowers. It is a plant with both ornamental value and horticultural charm. Let’s learn the cultivation techniques and precautions of drooping silk jasmine.

1. Breeding techniques

1. Lighting management

Weeping Jasmine likes an environment with sufficient light, but cannot tolerate strong sunlight. In spring, autumn and winter, at least 2 to 3 hours of direct sunlight are required every day, and in summer, shade is needed to avoid strong sunlight at noon that will burn the leaves.

2. Temperature control

The suitable growth temperature for weeping jasmine is 15℃-25℃, and the temperature in winter cannot be lower than 10℃. In frost areas, they need to be moved indoors before the temperature drops.

3. Soil selection

For potted weeping jasmine, you need to choose loose, fertile, well-drained, slightly acidic soil. You can mix peat soil, perlite and coconut coir in a ratio of 6:4.

4. Watering method

Follow the principle of "water thoroughly when dry" to keep the soil slightly moist but not too waterlogged. Increase watering frequency appropriately in summer and reduce watering in winter to avoid root rot caused by low temperature and humidity.

5. Fertilization tips

Weeping Jasmine likes fertilizer, and thin liquid fertilizer should be applied every 15-20 days during the growth period. Before flowering, increase the application of phosphorus and potassium fertilizers, such as potassium dihydrogen phosphate, to promote flower bud differentiation. Apply humic acid or ferrous sulfate once a month to prevent yellowing of leaves.

6. Pruning management

It grows rapidly in spring and autumn. It is recommended to carry out heavy pruning in mid-to-late September to cut off old leaves and overcrowded branches to promote the growth of new branches and differentiation of flower buds.

2. Precautions

1. Antifreeze and keep warm

Winter is the dormant period for weeping jasmine, so special attention should be paid to anti-freeze. Move it indoors and keep it in sufficient light to prevent the flower buds from freezing and falling off.

2. Pest and disease control

Weeping jasmine may occasionally be invaded by rust or aphids, which can be prevented by spraying carbendazim solution regularly.

3. Avoid stagnant water

When watering, avoid water accumulation in the tray to prevent root rot.

In addition, weeping jasmine needs proper shade in summer to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight to prevent sunburn on the leaves. It grows quickly and it is recommended to repot it every 1-2 years in spring, replacing it with new, loose and breathable soil.