How to Grow White Jade Orchid (Michelia alba)? A Detailed Guide to Its Growth Habits and Cultivation Methods
White Jade Orchid (Michelia alba) is a highly ornamental evergreen tree that generally blooms in summer, with a long flowering period. It is very suitable for planting in courtyards. The Yangtze River basin and areas south of the Yangtze River in China are all suitable for growing White Jade Orchid. So how can you grow a White Jade Orchid well? Below is an introduction to the growth habits and cultivation methods of White Jade Orchid.
1. Soil: White Jade Orchid likes loose, airy, fertile, slightly acidic soil. If grown in a pot, you can use a mixed soil of leaf mold plus a small amount of river sand. If the soil in a courtyard planting site does not quite meet the standard, you can apply more organic fertilizer to improve the soil environment and make it loose and airy.
2. Sunlight and temperature: White Jade Orchid likes sunlight, so it is recommended to plant it in a sunny spot. Sufficient sunlight is good for its growth. White Jade Orchid is not cold-tolerant. In areas where the winter temperature is below 5°C, it is necessary to take cold-protection measures. If grown in a pot, it is recommended to move it indoors. If grown in a courtyard, you can use straw, plastic film, etc. to cover the tree.
3. Water: White Jade Orchid is not tolerant of drought and is also afraid of waterlogging. When watering, follow the principle of watering when dry and letting it dry between waterings. Water thoroughly each time without allowing water to accumulate, and wait until the soil is almost dry before watering a second time. You can also judge whether White Jade Orchid is short of water by its leaves. Drooping leaves are a symptom of water shortage, so replenish water in time. Reduce watering frequency in winter, and also pay attention to the water temperature.
4. Fertilizing: If you want White Jade Orchid to grow well, fertilizing is also very important. The vigorous growth periods of White Jade Orchid are spring and autumn each year, which is when the temperature is neither too cold nor too hot and most comfortable. Apply a nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium compound fertilizer once every half month, about 5 grams per plant. To avoid burning the roots, the fertilizer should be diluted with water.
The above are the growth habits and cultivation methods of White Jade Orchid. We hope they are helpful to everyone. White Jade Orchid is relatively sensitive to chlorine, and our tap water is disinfected with chlorine, so do not water it with freshly drawn tap water. It is best to use cooled boiled water or let tap water sit for two days until the chlorine dissipates before watering.