Desert roses, named for their resemblance to blooming roses and their origin in dry tropical desert regions, are not actual roses but resemble them. They are beautiful, easy to care for, and have gained popularity among flower enthusiasts. So, what are the cultivation methods for desert roses? Let's find out.
Cultivation Methods for Desert Roses
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Potting Soil: Desert roses prefer well-drained sandy loam rich in calcium. For home cultivation, a mixture of fertile, loose sand and humus soil is suitable.
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Temperature and Light: Desert roses thrive in hot, dry, and sunny climates, with an optimal growth temperature of 25-30°C and a winter temperature above 10°C. Regarding light, it's best to provide at least 10 hours of sunlight daily, without shading even during hot summer days.
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Watering: Desert roses are highly drought-resistant and dislike waterlogging. Therefore, they do not need frequent watering. It's best to wait until the soil is nearly dry before watering, and watering should be thorough. In spring and autumn, when desert roses are in their growth peak, they require more water, so watering frequency can be increased accordingly.
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Fertilization: Desert roses thrive with fertilization. During the growing season, apply compound fertilizer once a month. Adhere to the principle of thin fertilization and frequent application. When flower buds appear, a potassium dihydrogen phosphate spray can be applied to promote robust growth, lush foliage, and vigorous flowering.
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Pruning: During pruning, remove the apical buds to prevent uneven nutrient distribution and excessive branch growth. Then, remove lateral buds, leaving only three or four on the main branch. Finally, promptly remove all diseased and dead branches to prevent the spread of pathogens to healthy ones.
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Repotting: Desert roses should be repotted every 1-2 years. The repotting process is simple: remove all the old soil, trim the fine roots, and prune excessively long main roots. Once the wounds have dried or the fine roots have completely dried, plant the desert rose in new potting soil.
In summary, desert roses come in various colors, bloom beautifully for an extended period, and are relatively easy to care for. By mastering some detailed cultivation methods, you can easily cultivate thriving desert roses.
