How to water a turtle
Dioscorea elephantipes is a unique tuber plant named for its resemblance to a tortoise shell. Its watering needs are different from other plants and require special attention. The following is a detailed guide on watering turtle-shell dragons, combining hot topics and hot content in the past 10 days.
1. The growth cycle and watering needs of Turtle-shelled Dragon

The growth cycle of the turtle-shelled dragon is divided into a growth period and a dormant period, and the watering frequency needs to be adjusted according to the season:
| growth stage | time | Watering frequency |
|---|---|---|
| growth period | Autumn to Spring | 1-2 times a week |
| Dormant period | summer | Once a month or completely cut off water |
2. Watering method
1.Watering during the growing season: The growth period is the stage when turtles need water the most. It is recommended to use the "soaking pot method", immersing the flower pot in water for 10-15 minutes, allowing the soil to fully absorb water, and then draining the excess water.
2.Watering during dormant period: When the temperature is high in summer, the turtle enters the dormant period and the leaves wither. At this time, it is necessary to reduce watering or even stop watering completely to avoid tuber rot.
| Watering method | Applicable stage | Things to note |
|---|---|---|
| dip pot method | growth period | Avoid standing water |
| spray method | Dormant period | Moisten top soil only |
3. Water quality and water temperature
1.water quality: Turtle-shelled dragons are sensitive to water quality. It is recommended to use rainwater or tap water that has been left standing, and avoid using tap water containing chlorine directly.
2.water temperature: When watering, the water temperature should be close to room temperature to avoid excessive cold or heat irritating the root system.
| Water quality type | Applicability |
|---|---|
| rain | Best |
| Let tap water stand | Available |
| direct tap water | Not recommended |
4. Common watering misunderstandings
1.over watering: The tubers of Turtle-shelled Dragon are easy to accumulate water and rot, especially during the dormant period, so the amount of water needs to be strictly controlled.
2.Ignore ambient humidity: Turtle-shelled dragons like dry environments, so watering frequency needs to be reduced in areas with high humidity.
3.Improper watering time: It is recommended to water in the morning or evening to avoid root damage caused by watering at high temperatures at noon.
5. How to judge whether watering is needed
1.Observe the soil: Insert 1-2cm into the soil with your finger, water if it feels dry.
2.Observe the leaves: Wilting leaves during the growth period may be a sign of water shortage, but wilting leaves during the dormant period is normal.
| Judgment method | Applicable stage |
|---|---|
| soil drying method | growth period |
| blade state method | growth period |
6. Summary
The watering of turtles needs to be adjusted flexibly according to the growth cycle. Keep the soil moist during the growth period and reduce watering during the dormant period. Only by choosing appropriate water quality and watering methods and avoiding common misunderstandings can the turtle-shell dragon grow healthily.
Through the above structured data and methods, you can easily master the watering skills of Turtle-shelled Dragon and let your plants thrive!
check the details
check the details