Fragrance cultivation and maintenance techniques

Foam Cultivation and Maintenance Techniques:

1. To encourage the healthy growth of seedlings and help them develop into mature plants quickly, it's important to focus on proper pruning and fertilization. During the second and third springs, when repotting, use a base fertilizer such as cake fat, hoof, and bone powder. Additionally, perform artificial trimming by cutting the main trunk at about 15 cm from the top and leaving 3 to 5 axillary buds beneath it. This encourages new growth and helps expand the plant’s canopy. When the new shoots reach 5 to 8 cm in length, pinch out the growing tip and remove the top and side buds to shape the tree and promote early fruiting.

2. The fragrant foam thrives in acidic soil with a pH level around 5.3. The soil should be well-draining and rich in nutrients, and can include loam, sandy soil, or clay. A recommended potting mix is 60% humus soil, 30% Hesha, and 10% peat or furnace ash. Water the plant every ten days or so, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Water the surface of the soil thoroughly once, and maintain consistent moisture throughout the year without frequent watering.

3. The ideal humidity for the fragrant foam is between 70% and 90%. During dry seasons, mist the foliage one to two times daily or sprinkle water around the area to increase air humidity. The optimal temperature range is 15°C to 30°C. In hot weather, move the plant to a cool, shaded, and well-ventilated area. If temperatures drop below 5°C, protect it from cold. It prefers sandy loam soil at altitudes between 800 and 1200 meters, in a warm and humid climate with plenty of rainfall.

4. Propagation through cuttings is the most common method for fragrant foam. Use thick, green, and glossy one-year-old branches, ideally taking cuttings from the middle section. These can be made just before or after the summer solstice during regular pruning. Cut the stems to about 12–15 cm, remove the leaves, leaving only the petioles, and insert half of the stem into the soil. Press the soil gently around the base, and bury the top of the cutting about 1.5 cm deep. Alternatively, cuttings can be taken up to 18–20 cm long and planted in plain sand, inserting about 15 cm into the soil. After planting, ensure regular care such as weeding, fertilizing, and monitoring. It usually takes 2–3 years before the plant is ready for transplanting.

5. The fragrant foam is prone to yellow leaf disease and leaf drop. If yellowing occurs, apply a 1% ferrous sulfate solution. If root rot is suspected, carefully remove the plant from its pot, rinse the roots, trim away any rotten parts, disinfect the remaining roots, and replant in disinfected sand. This helps the plant gradually regain its health.

Historically, the citron was cultivated in Yijiazhaizi. As a special product in the stockade, it was often given as a tribute during weddings and celebrations, symbolizing good fortune and joy.