A string of red, also known as Western red, firecracker red, or native to South America, is a popular flowering plant species. It is widely cultivated for its vibrant and colorful blooms, with varieties such as the "Betty," "Novice," "Saisa," "Outlook," and "Victoria" series being particularly popular. The flowers come in a wide range of colors, including scarlet, orange-red, lavender, purple, wine red, red and white, rose, white, and mixed hues, making it a versatile choice for gardeners and landscapers.
This annual herbaceous plant typically grows to a height of 25–30 cm, featuring a compact and attractive shape. Its inflorescences are arranged in clusters, with bright red blossoms that last throughout the season without wilting. Due to its appealing appearance, it is ideal for both open-field flower beds and container gardening.
A string of red thrives in full sun and prefers temperatures between 20°C and 25°C. It can tolerate high heat but may experience growth slowdowns when temperatures exceed 30°C. Growth halts above 35°C, while leaf yellowing occurs below 7°C, and frost damage may occur at temperatures below 3°C. Watering should be carefully managed—neither too dry nor overwatered. During the growing season, phosphorus and potassium fertilizers are essential for healthy development.
Propagation can be done through seeds or cuttings. For seed propagation, seeds can be soaked in warm water (25–30°C) for 6–8 hours before sowing. Alternatively, they can be germinated in a damp cloth in a warm environment (20–25°C), rinsed 2–3 times daily, and sown after about 5–6 days. Seedlings can be started in plug trays or directly in a seedbed made of yellow mud, peat, and perlite (4:2:1 ratio). Maintaining moisture and warmth is crucial for successful germination.
Cutting propagation involves selecting healthy, disease-free plants and taking 2–3 node cuttings. The cuttings are dipped in a rooting hormone solution and planted in coarse sand at 25–28°C. Rooting typically takes 8–10 days, after which they can be transplanted into pots.
For optimal growth, a mix of yellow mud, sawdust, and mushroom compost (6:3:1 ratio) is recommended, left to mature for six months before use. When transplanting, ensure the roots have grown to 5–7 mm in length. If using seedlings, transplant them when they have 2–3 true leaves. After planting, avoid direct sunlight and provide shade if necessary.
Pinching back the tips of the plant promotes branching, resulting in a more compact and bushy form. This helps control plant height, increase flower production, and improve overall aesthetics. Regular pruning of spent flowers encourages new blooms and conserves energy for further flowering.
Watering should be controlled to prevent yellowing and leaf drop, while phosphorus and potassium fertilizers should be applied regularly. A 0.2% solution of potassium dihydrogen phosphate can be used every 10 days. After each pruning, ensure adequate watering and follow up with a balanced fertilizer to support new growth.
A string of red requires ample sunlight, but in areas with intense light, partial shading is advisable. Temperatures above 5°C are generally safe, and the plant can thrive between 10°C and 30°C. However, extreme heat above 35°C is not suitable for most varieties.
To ensure timely blooming for major festivals, proper scheduling and pruning are essential. After the initial bloom, removing spent flowers encourages re-flowering. A well-managed schedule, such as the one used in Zhuhai, Guangdong, can help achieve precise flowering control.
Common diseases include damping-off, leaf spot, downy mildew, and mosaic virus. These can be managed with appropriate fungicides and insecticides. Pests like whiteflies, aphids, and spider mites should be controlled early to prevent damage. Insecticides such as 0.01% imidacloprid, 600–800 times diluted Wanling, and 0.01% dicofol are effective against these pests.
Regular monitoring, proper watering, and timely fertilization are key to maintaining healthy plants. By following these practices, gardeners can enjoy a continuous display of beautiful, vibrant blooms throughout the growing season.
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