How to plant crab claw orchid
Schlumbergera truncata (scientific name: Schlumbergera truncata) is a common ornamental plant. It blooms in winter and has bright colors, so it is very popular among flower lovers. This article will introduce in detail the cultivation method of crab claw orchid, including soil selection, light requirements, watering frequency and other key information to help you successfully grow crab claw orchid.
1. Basic information about crab claw orchid

Cactus is native to Brazil and belongs to the Cactaceae family. However, its growth environment is different from ordinary cacti. It prefers a humid and semi-shady environment. The following are the basic characteristics of crab claw plant:
| Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Family | Cactaceae |
| flowering period | Winter (usually November to February) |
| Lighting requirements | Semi-shady environment, avoid direct sunlight |
| suitable temperature | 15-25℃ |
2. Cultivation steps of crab claw orchid
1.soil selection
Crab orchid prefers loose, airy and well-drained soil. It is recommended to use the following soil mix:
| Ingredients | Proportion |
|---|---|
| peat soil | 50% |
| perlite or vermiculite | 30% |
| humus soil | 20% |
2.Lighting management
The crab claw orchid is suitable to be placed in a bright diffused light environment and avoid direct sunlight. Shade is required when the temperature is high in summer, and light can be appropriately increased in winter to promote flowering.
3.Watering frequency
Crab claw orchid has a high demand for water, but avoid water accumulation. The following are watering recommendations for different seasons:
| season | Watering frequency |
|---|---|
| spring | 1-2 times a week |
| summer | 2-3 times a week (need to increase when the temperature is high) |
| autumn | 1 time a week |
| winter | Once every 10 days or so |
4.Fertilizer Tips
Crab orchid requires moderate fertilization during the growing season (spring to autumn) to promote growth and flowering. The following fertilizers are recommended:
| Fertilizer type | Frequency of use |
|---|---|
| Diluted liquid fertilizer (Ruhuaduoduo) | Once every 2 weeks |
| slow release fertilizer | Once every 3 months |
3. Propagation method of crab claw orchid
Crab claws can be propagated by cuttings or grafting. The following are the steps for propagation by cuttings:
1. Select a healthy stem section and cut off 2-3 sections with sterilized scissors.
2. Dry the cut stem segments for 1-2 days until the wound heals.
3. Insert into a moist cutting medium (such as perlite or vermiculite) to maintain humidity.
4. After taking root in about 2-3 weeks, you can transplant it into a flower pot.
4. Common problems and solutions
1.Leaves turn yellow
Possible causes: Overwatering or insufficient light. The solution is to reduce watering and adjust lighting.
2.No flowers
Possible reasons: Insufficient light or insufficient nutrients. It is recommended to increase light and supplement phosphorus and potassium fertilizers.
3.pests and diseases
Common pests and diseases of crab claws include red spider mites and scale insects. Use alcohol swabs to wipe or spray insecticide.
5. Summary
The crab claw orchid is a plant that is easy to cultivate and has high ornamental value. As long as you master the skills of soil, light, watering and fertilization, you can make it grow healthily and bloom beautiful flowers. I hope this article helps you successfully grow crab claw plants!
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