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Planting and Care Guide
- Cuttings should lie to dry
in a cool place, from one to two weeks before planting.
- Plant the cutting about one
and one half inches deep in a 4" or larger container.
- Potting soil should be a
light mix. We recommend 1/3 potting soil, 1/3 perlite, and 1/3 small
bark. Our potting kit contains this mix.
- After planting new cuttings
withhold water for about a week, and then start watering carefully. Be
stingy with water at this point. Drainage is extremely important.
Excess water must drain away quickly to avoid rot.
- Once you have started
watering, never let them dry out completely. Epis go dormant in
November and December.
When plants are not in bloom, their branches enjoy being hosed down.
When in bloom, carefully water in the container only to avoid damage
to the bloom.
- Semi-shade conditions with
filtered sunlight and good air movement are ideal. Morning sun is OK,
but never direct afternoon sun.
- You will not need to
fertilize for the first nine months. The potting mix has sufficient
nutrients. After that, fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer
like 10-10-10. In November and early spring fertilize with 0-10-10 or
2-10-10. This will promote bud growth and ultimately flowers. Do not
fertilize in December and January.
After your plant has finished flowering then fertilize once again with
a balanced fertilizer, 10-10-10, or 8-8-8, etc.
- Watch for snails, scale and
aphids. Control as needed to insure healthy plants.
- A more detailed
care guide is included with the shipments.
Some epiphyllums will
show new growth within a few months. Others might take longer. Some might have
flowers after a year of growth while most will take two or three years. Be patient and
enjoy the beauty and splendor of their growth.
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