Lunar New Year is a time when most families buy peach branches to display and enhance the festive atmosphere in their homes. One of the common practices many people carry out before arranging the branches is to burn their stems. But why is this done, and what purpose does it serve?
Should You Burn the Stems of Peach Branches?
Burning the stems of peach branches is a traditional practice rooted in the belief that when a branch is cut from the tree, the sap will flow out and harden, resembling a plug that seals the vessels responsible for transporting water and nutrients to the branches, leaves, and flowers. Therefore, it is thought that burning the stem before placing the branch in a vase will melt the hardened sap, unblocking the vessels and allowing the branch to continue absorbing water and nutrients, resulting in more vibrant and long-lasting flowers and buds.
Should you burn the stems of peach branches before displaying them for Lunar New Year?
In reality, while burning the stems may help eliminate bacteria and fungi, preventing their invasion of the branch’s vascular system and reducing sap flow, the potential harm outweighs the benefits. The intense heat from burning can kill the branch’s cellular tissue, impeding its ability to absorb water and nutrients, which, in turn, affects its growth, flowering capacity, and overall health during the festive season, especially for smaller branches.
With proper care and attention, peach branches can thrive and bloom beautifully without the need for stem burning. Below are some tips to ensure your peach branches flourish during the Lunar New Year celebrations.
Caring for Your Peach Branches During Lunar New Year
Here are some essential steps to help your peach branches stay vibrant and bloom beautifully during the festive season:
Trimming and Treating the Stems: It is important to neatly trim the stems of the peach branches to facilitate better water and nutrient absorption. To prevent the branches from wilting quickly, cut the stems at a 45-degree angle, increasing the surface area in contact with the water and enhancing water absorption.
Using Clean Water: Providing ample clean water is crucial for the longevity of your peach branches. Ensure you thoroughly clean the vase or container and use fresh water for your display. Change the water regularly to avoid any contamination that may cause the flowers to wilt. Aim to replace the water every two days, and remember to rinse the stems each time you change the water to prevent bacterial growth or mold.
Nutrient Supplementation: If you are unable to change the water as frequently as recommended, you can add a small amount of sugar or a floral nutrient solution to the water. This will provide the branches with an easily accessible source of nutrients and help maintain the freshness of the flowers. However, keep an eye on the water, and if it starts to develop an odor, replace it immediately.
Adding nutrients to the water is crucial for beautiful blooming flowers. (Photo: Minh Đức)
Choosing the Right Location: To ensure the longevity of your peach branches, place the vase or container in a cool, shaded area, away from direct sunlight. Excessive heat and direct sun can cause the flowers to wilt prematurely, ruining their display.
On the other hand, placing the branches in an extremely cold location can hinder the flowers from blooming on time. Throughout their care, shield the branches from cold drafts. The ideal temperature range for optimal growth is between 18°C and 20°C (64°F and 68°F).
Humidity Control: During winter, indoor air tends to be dry, which can cause moisture loss and accelerate wilting in peach branches. To counteract this, consider using a humidifier in the room or placing a small bowl of water near the branches to increase humidity. Alternatively, lightly mist the leaves and branches in the morning to help them retain moisture. Just be cautious not to over-mist, as excessive moisture can promote fungal growth.
Pest and Disease Control: Peach branches are susceptible to pests and diseases, so regular inspections are essential to maintaining their health. Keep an eye out for signs of leaf yellowing, wilting, or the presence of mold. If you spot any issues, use a clean cloth to gently wipe down the leaves, or apply a mild insecticide to the affected areas. However, avoid using strong chemicals, as they may interfere with the flowers’ blooming process.
Removing Wilted Flowers: During the care process, some flowers may bloom and wilt prematurely. To maintain the overall freshness and aesthetics of the display, remove any wilted flowers. This not only helps the branch conserve its energy but also creates space for new flowers to grow and flourish.
Additionally, removing wilted flowers helps preserve the visual appeal of the branch, preventing it from looking sparse or unevenly bloomed.
By following these care tips, your peach branches will thrive and add a vibrant touch to your Lunar New Year celebrations.
According to VTC News
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