How to water a potted white orchid (Michelia alba)? Keep these precautions in mind

As the saying goes: the white orchid (Michelia alba) is fragrant but hard to grow, and this is especially true when growing it in pots in the Yangtze River basin and areas to its north. However, as long as you understand its habits and care for it properly, you can still make it bloom with fragrance year after year. In fact, the key to success or failure in growing white orchid (Michelia alba) in pots lies in watering. Below are the watering precautions for potted white orchid (Michelia alba).

1. When potted flowers are brought indoors in winter, they need to be watered on a wet-dry cycle, that is, let the soil surface dry before watering, and water thoroughly when you do.

2. If the branch tips turn brown, shrink and wither, it is mostly caused by long-term excess moisture damaging the roots. Water should be controlled immediately, and the soil should be loosened.

3. If the leaves suddenly wilt, it means the plant is too dry; water immediately and place it in a shaded spot to recover.

4. If the leaves at the lower end of the branches gradually turn yellow and upward, drop off or dry at the edges, and the lower leaves and branches age prematurely, it is mostly caused by long-term water shortage or dehydration. Water timely and in appropriate amounts. On rainy days, prevent water from accumulating in the pot, and pour out any accumulated water at any time.

5. In midsummer, generally water once in the evening, and in the morning you still need to "look for water." So-called looking for water means properly adding a little water depending on the dryness or moisture of the potting soil and the weather conditions. If at noon the soil temperature is high and there is a sudden shower, the water temperature in the pot rises accordingly, which is extremely harmful to the roots, and you must water immediately to lower the temperature.

6. For watering, rainwater or river and pond water is best. If you use tap water, let it sit for two hours before watering. Never use dead water that has been stored too long, or water that contains many impurities or is somewhat alkaline. In summer, the water temperature should be slightly lower than the soil temperature, and in winter slightly higher.