When does the white orchid (Michelia alba) bloom? An introduction to its flowering period

Flowers & Gardening Jan 1, 1970 0 views

It usually produces flowers in summer and autumn, and the flowering period generally lasts about one month. To help it bloom, you need to pinch off the growing tips, add fertilizer, water it, give it enough light and provide appropriate shade, and only then can the white orchid successfully produce flowers.

I. When it blooms

It generally blooms in summer and autumn each year, and the farther south the location, the earlier the blooming time. If it is planted in Shenzhen, you can see its flowers in midsummer. Its flowering period is relatively long and can even last 1 month. In daily care, be careful not to plant it in too wet, low-lying land, and unless there is a drought, there is no need to water it artificially. Fertilizing should also be done in moderation.

II. How to help it bloom

1. Pinching off the growing tips

If you want to move it out of the shed, it is best to do so during the period from the Spring Equinox to Qingming (Tomb-Sweeping Day), preferably on an overcast or cloudy day. Let it adapt outdoors for two or three days, then help it by removing the old leaves, keeping only a few young leaves at the tips of the branches. After the flowers fade, also remove some old leaves to help new branches and buds grow. During its growth period, pinch off the growing tips frequently, which can help remove apical dominance.

2. Adding fertilizer

This is a relatively important step. Because its flowering period is relatively long and the number of flowers is relatively large, it needs to be given enough nutrients regularly. In addition to adding enough base fertilizer when potting it up, you should also give it a liquid fertilizer once a week during the flowering period, rich in phosphorus and potassium. You can apply a smaller dose of fertilizer first, then a more concentrated one. Do not give it raw fertilizer, otherwise the roots will be burned.

3. Watering

It has fleshy roots, so while it needs water, it is also afraid of water. From early summer to late autumn, water it once a day. Keep the soil moist. During the dog days of summer, you should water it once in both the morning and the evening, and at the same time also sprinkle water on the leaves and the ground to provide sufficient humidity. If it is tap water, you need to be careful, as it may very likely cause the soil to become alkaline. In seasons with a lot of rain, do not let water accumulate, otherwise the roots will rot.

4. Light

It is a sun-loving flower and needs enough sunlight. Place it in an area with long sun exposure and sufficient intensity, especially during the flowering period when light is even more necessary. It cannot be given less than 6 hours of light per day. If it is often placed in a dark area, it will only grow leaves and not flowers, or it will have very few flowers.