Nasturtium, also known as "Golden Lotus", "Lotus Lotus", "Lotus Lotus", is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Nasturtaceae family. It is characterized by a plant height of about 30 cm, a fat and round leaf, a blunt apex, **shiny, 5 veins, and all green. The peduncle is long and villous. Flowers orange-red or yellow. Aachenes black.
Growing environment
Nasturtium prefers a warm, humid and sunny environment, with strong cold tolerance, and avoids high temperature and humidity. Its suitable growth temperature is 18-2 4C, and it needs proper shade and avoid direct sunlight during the high temperature in summer. Nasturtium is not very demanding on the soil, but it grows best in loose, fertile, well-drained soil.
Methods of reproduction
The propagation method of nasturtiums mainly adopts the sowing method and the cutting method. Seeding propagation takes place in the spring, where the seeds are evenly sprinkled on the surface of the soil, covered with a thin layer of soil, lightly compacted. Propagation by cuttings takes place in the summer, where healthy shoots are selected, cut into 8-10 cm long cuttings, inserted into loose soil, kept moist, and ready to take root after about 2 weeks.
Conservation management
Nasturtium needs plenty of water during the growing period to keep the potting soil moist but avoid standing water. In the vigorous growth period, fertilization is applied once every half a month, mainly with well-rotted organic fertilizer or compound fertilizer. At the same time, it is necessary to prune the withered yellow branches and leaves regularly to keep the plant beautiful. In winter, nasturtium enters the dormant period, watering should be reduced to keep the potting soil dry.
Pest and disease control
Common pests and diseases of nasturtium include aphids, spider mites and powdery mildew. For aphids and spider mites, imidacloprid or avermectin can be sprayed. For powdery mildew, it can be sprayed with ** ketone or carbendazim. In the prevention and control of pests and diseases, attention should be paid to the safe use of pesticides to avoid harm to the environment and the human body.
Ornamental value and application
The flowers of nasturtium are brightly colored, with orange-red or yellow petals standing out against the green leaves. Its flowers resemble dishes and have high ornamental value. In the garden, nasturtium can be planted in flower beds, flower landings or potted ornamental plants; In indoor potted plants, nasturtium is also one of the great flowering plants. In addition, nasturtium can also be used to make bouquets and flower arrangements, adding freshness and beauty to life.
As a plant with ornamental and practical value, the cultivation technology and maintenance management points of nasturtium include suitable growth environment, propagation methods, water and fertilizer management, pruning and pest control. Through reasonable maintenance and management, the healthy growth of nasturtium can be promoted, and its ornamental value and application range can be improved.