Yellow apricot blossoms are an indispensable symbol of the Tet holiday, bringing a festive and warm atmosphere to the first days of the new year. To own an apricot blossom tree that blooms magnificently during Tet, in addition to careful watering and fertilizing, reasonable leaf-picking is also very important.
**Guide to picking apricot leaves for better blooming**
Leaf-picking is not just a simple task, but also a way to optimize the tree’s energy and focus it on flowering, thus helping the flowers bloom beautifully and exactly when you want them to.
**Choosing the right time to pick apricot leaves**
Picking apricot leaves at the right time plays a crucial role in helping the tree divert its energy to the flowers. You shouldn’t pick the leaves too early, as the tree needs them for photosynthesis and to produce the necessary nutrients for growth. The ideal time to start picking apricot leaves is when they start to turn yellow or fall off by themselves. At this point, the tree will not need to retain the less vigorous leaves, and it will be able to concentrate all its energy on developing the flower buds.
The apricot tree needs to absorb enough energy from its leaves to perform photosynthesis and produce nutrients throughout its growth process. However, when the tree starts preparing for the flowering season, you can remove some leaves, especially those infested with pests, yellowed, or no longer fresh. This helps the tree channel all its nutrients into flowering instead of nourishing the less useful parts.
**Pruning excess branches**
In addition to removing leaves, pruning excess branches is also essential for the vigorous and uniform blooming of the apricot tree. When the tree is too dense, air and light will have difficulty reaching the inner branches, causing improper blooming. You should use specialized pruning shears to cut off small, weak, or unhealthy branches. This action not only makes the apricot tree more airy but also allows the flower buds to receive more light and nutrients, contributing to vibrant blooming.
**Important notes after picking apricot leaves**
Fertilizing is one of the essential steps in apricot tree care. After leaf-picking, the tree will need a significant amount of nutrients to recover and grow vigorously. You should use organic fertilizer or specialized fertilizer for apricot trees, ensuring a reasonable N-P-K (Nitrogen – Phosphorus – Potassium) ratio. These fertilizers will provide sufficient nutrients for the apricot tree, helping it become strong and bloom splendidly.
– NPK 30-10-10 fertilizer: Supports the development of leaves and tree branches.
– NPK 10-30-10 fertilizer: Provides phosphorus, which helps stimulate flowering.
In addition, the apricot tree needs to maintain proper moisture. Avoid overwatering to prevent waterlogging, which can damage the roots and weaken the tree. It’s best to water in the early morning or cool afternoon to avoid heat stress.
The apricot tree also requires sunlight for photosynthesis, but direct sunlight should be avoided. Place the tree in a bright spot, avoiding dark areas. If you’re growing it in a pot, you can easily move it outdoors to absorb natural light, which will promote growth and stimulate flowering.
**Caring for the apricot tree during Tet**
The Tet holiday is a crucial period for the apricot tree to bloom on time. To ensure blooming during Tet, proper care from November to January is of utmost importance. Keep the tree in a warm environment, protecting it from cold winds and frost. If it’s in a pot, move it to a cool place while still ensuring sufficient light for its development.
Caring for the apricot tree requires patience and attention to detail, especially in leaf-picking, pruning, fertilizing, and watering. By applying the above tips on apricot tree care, you’ll easily own a beautiful apricot tree that blooms right on Tet, bringing luck and prosperity to your family.
The Magic of Vietnamese Epiphyllum in an Australian Garden: A Mother’s Journey
“The enigmatic and captivating Epiphyllum, or Queen of the Night, as it is often called, takes its sweet time to reveal its true beauty. According to Ms. Nguyet, when propagated from leaves, this extraordinary plant may take 2 to 3 years to grace its owner with a magnificent floral display. It’s a testament to the rewards that come with patience and a nurturing green thumb.”