what is the best way to care for an adenium?

Question:

Answer: Adeniums or desert rose are enduring, succulent ornamental plants. They are popular for potted plants. They can survive for 2 months or more without being watered because of drought tolerant characteristics There are several species of Adenium: Adenium swazicum, Adenium somalense, Adenium arabicum, Adenium boehmianum, Adenium multiflorum, Adenium crispum, Adenium obesum. Adeniums have many spectacular hybrids. The basic culture is very similar to orchids. A small pot with excellent drainage is a must. Adeniums do not like both over-watering or drying-out. There is a little 'secret' how to create a weird shape of base: just lift the plant a bit every time you re-pot the plant, so the upper parts of roots will be a little exposed. The plant will form more roots that will go down. To make your plant develop a large swollen base/trunk, you need a good quality fertilizer. Fertilizer requirement for swelling up trunks is also used to increase flowering. It shouldn't be too hight in nitrogen, the middle number should be the highest. Never apply fertilizer directly on roots and do not liquid feed when a plant is thirsty: always water first slightly to avoid root burn and leaf drop. Do not wet leaves. Adeniums need lots of light for heavy flowering. Most hybrids and species start blooming in the spring when the conditions are warm and days get longer, and continue blooming through the fall and winter in warmer climates. Adeniums like a neutral to hard water. Acidic water tends to sour the soil too fast and may cause root rot. Water plants preferably in the early morning, and allow them to drink up throughout the day. Watering can be done daily to every few days. Never allow your plants to sit in a saucer of water, neither allow them to dry out too often - this causes adeniums to go into early dormancy. Adenium hybrids can be multi-grafted with several colors/varieties on the same plant. The swollen base will be formed only when the rod stock plant is grown from seed

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