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from
the growers
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Cultural Information – Epiphyllum
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our epiphyllum department
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Light:
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Partial sun (east or west exposure).
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Temperature:
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As a potted plant, maintain indoor
temperatures above 35°.
In winter grow in an area that has night temperatures below 60°
and above 32°
on a consistent basis.
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Humidity:
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They will tolerate low levels with no
harm, even preferring dryness.
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Watering:
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Bring soil to a state of dryness between
watering. When watering,
thoroughly saturate soil until a little water runs out of the bottom of
the pot. They prefer more
moisture in the summer. In
the winter, from November to March, totally restrict water.
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Fertilizer:
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They are moderate feeders so 1/4
tsp./gallon once a week is a general recommendation.
In winter discontinue feeding.
Use a balanced fertilizer i.e. 15-15-15 or a blooming fertilizer
like Dyna
Gro 7-9-5 or Electra 5-10-3.
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Pruning:
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Usually little pruning is needed unless
height is a concern or the plant is sprawling out of its growing area.
The best time to prune is right after flowering.
E. oxypetalum forms tall upright stems on which the flat leaves
emerge. These can be removed to maintain a manageable height.
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Insects and
Disease:
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Epiphyllum have some susceptibility to
mealy bug. They also are
susceptible to fungal leaf spot especially during the winter months
under excessive humidity and cool conditions.
If grown too wet under cool temperatures they also can have
problems with root and stem diseases.
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Comments:
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Epiphyllums are easy plants to grow,
loving dry conditions and some direct light.
The flowers form at the notches on the flat or triangular leaves
of last year. To help induce
blooms grow dry and cold in the winter with nights below 60 degrees and
above freezing. Once buds
are clearly visible watering can be resumed.
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