From the name of this evergreen high bush it becomes clear where it was brought from. Ornamentally deciduous shrub, and sometimes a low tree, unfortunately, blossoms with small flowers that do not differ in particular beauty, but its foliage at any time of year is juicy and bright. The peculiarity of the plant is that by the method of pruning it is possible to form a shrub of any shape depending on the gardener's imagination.
Spindle: home care
When choosing a place for a plant, give preference to sills with scattered light, because the direct rays of the sun can lead to yellowing of the foliage and the appearance of spots-burns. In the shadow of the spindle, the Japanese room quickly fades, losing its bright color of leaves. Considering that the plant likes free spaces, the best solution will be wide window sills, a balcony or an open ground in the garden.
The temperature for the spindle must be about 18-20 ° C in the warm months, whereas in the cold season, when the growth of the plant slows down and it passes into a state of rest, it will be better if the temperature is 2-4 ° C. Often, the spindle tree feels well in the gardens, where it is wrapped for the winter or transplanted into a suitable pot and brought to the balcony or veranda.
For a plant such as Japanese spindle grass, care is not difficult. Watering shrubs should be moderate, and in the winter months occasionally, making sure that the land does not dry out. The peculiarity of the leaves is that the plant is not afraid of low humidity and it feels great even near the heating batteries. However, it will be better if the bush is regularly sprinkled with soft water, especially if the temperature in the room rises above 25 ° C.
During spring and summer, spindle sprouts can be fed with mineral fertilizers no more than once a month. It should be noted that with increased nitrogen content, the foliage of the plant can lose its variegated color and become completely green.
How to plant a spindle grass?
In order to plant a spindle, it is necessary to acquire cuttings cut from the bush in the summer months. It is possible to plant 2-3 pots from different plant varieties in one pot, as they grow up they will differ in leaves and create a beautiful composition. Initially, the cuttings should be planted in a mixture of sand and peat, and then, when they take root and start the first shoots, they can be planted in ordinary flower pots. The peculiarity of the root system of the spindle is rapid growth, so the plant needs to be transplanted once a year, and if necessary too long roots can be shortened, it will not harm the bush.
Noteworthy is the fact that pinching and pruning of lateral and apical shoots makes it possible to form the crown of the bush at its discretion. In addition, using a cord and pegs, you can give the required direction of growth to young shoots. Pinching the tip of the shoot stimulates the growth of the lateral, which means that the bush can be lush and low, its appearance completely
Diseases of Japanese spleen
Hard leaves of an evergreen shrub are not very attractive for insects, especially if there is a plant with softer and juicy foliage next to it, so the spindle leaves do not overwhelm the disease. The most common problems are related to improper conditions of maintenance, improper temperature, excessive watering or too much light. If you notice that the plant is affected by aphids, a scabbard or a spider mite, it is required to immediately treat the bush from parasites in order to avoid damage to its crown.