How to Grow and Prune Aglaia odorata (Mock Lime)

1. Suitable Soil

Aglaia odorata needs to grow in suitable soil; use a loose, well-draining, well-aerated, slightly acidic sandy loam. Never use compacted soil with a high salt-alkali content. After about one to two years of growing, repot it with suitable potting soil.

2. Plenty of Light

Growing Aglaia odorata requires plenty of light. During the growing season, it needs 8-12 hours of sunlight every day. Only with sufficient light will it grow robustly, with deep green leaves and abundant blooms. It can be kept on a balcony or a sunny windowsill. Although it cannot grow in a shaded environment, the summer sunlight is intense, so direct strong light must be blocked.

3. Temperature Requirements

It likes warmth, with a suitable temperature range of 20°C-35°C. When the temperature is above 30°C, it produces more flowers with a rich fragrance. It does not like cold weather, so keep it warm in winter and move it to a warm indoor spot promptly when the temperature drops.

4. Timely Watering

During the growing season, keep the potting soil moist, so water promptly and do not let the potting soil stay dry. After the temperature drops in winter, water evaporates more slowly and growth slows down, so watering should be controlled.

5. Reasonable Fertilizing

Ensure sufficient fertilizer during growth, and apply fertilizer reasonably by following the principle of frequent applications of dilute fertilizer.

6. Pruning Branches

Start pruning and shaping Aglaia odorata from the seedling stage, and also prune regularly during normal growth, promptly removing dead branches, diseased branches, and the like.