**Scientific Name:** *Chaenomeles japonica* (Thunb.) Lindl. **Family:** Rosaceae **Common Name:** Japanese Sea Otter **Origin:** Japan **Morphological Characteristics:** The Japanese Sea Otter, also known as *Chaenomeles japonica*, is a flowering shrub that closely resembles the Chinese sticky sea bream in flower appearance, but its leaves are slightly thinner and more oval in shape. The stems are densely clustered with multiple branches, and they often bear small, pod-like growths along with fine thorns. The flowers come in shades of red and pink, blooming from March to April. Each cluster contains several flowers that cling tightly to the branches, creating a charming and elegant display. After flowering, the plant produces round, yellow fruits with a diameter of approximately 3 cm. This plant is commonly used for ornamental purposes in gardens, along roadsides, on slopes, and as a potted plant for balconies or indoor decoration. Its compact size and attractive blooms make it a popular choice for landscape design. **Growth Habits:** The Japanese Sea Otter thrives in sunny conditions but can tolerate partial shade. It is moderately hardy and prefers well-drained, acidic to neutral soils. A recommended soil mix consists of 5 parts humus soil, 3 parts field soil, and 2 parts sand. It does not grow well in saline-alkali or clay-heavy soils. The plant enjoys moderate moisture but is sensitive to waterlogging. Flower buds begin to form between August and September. During this period, it's important to avoid excessive watering and heavy fertilization. Instead, water only when necessary, as overwatering can hinder bud development. Before the spring growth begins, pruning the branches by cutting off the top and leaving buds lower down can help maintain a healthy structure. Propagation is primarily done through cuttings, which should be taken in spring or autumn. Cut 10 cm sections of new growth, place them in plain sand, keep the soil moist, and provide shade. Roots typically appear within about 30 days, after which the cuttings can be transplanted the following spring. Grafting is also a common method, especially during the months of April to July. Vegetative propagation via runners (ramets) is another effective technique, best performed in spring or autumn, and it has a high survival rate. **Care and Maintenance:** One of the main pests affecting the Japanese Sea Otter is aphids. To control them, you can use a natural remedy such as soaking tobacco leaves overnight and using the solution to spray the plant. Avoid using dimethoate, as it may cause leaf drop. If infestations are light, manually removing the pests can be an effective solution. Regular monitoring and timely intervention are key to keeping the plant healthy and vibrant.

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