How to care for white magnolia (Michelia alba) in spring? Care methods and precautions

I. Increase light

In spring it will gradually resume growth, and by late spring it is already in its peak growing period. Although it is not tolerant of strong light, appropriate light is beneficial to its metabolism. So at this time, ensure at least four hours of light per day. The morning and afternoon sun is not strong, so it can be exposed directly, but the strong light at noon needs to be shaded.

II. Repotting

After temperatures rise in spring, it should be repotted. The old pot is no longer enough for its growth, and repotting during the growing period helps it adapt to the new environment. When repotting, gently hold its base with your hand, then turn it upside down and tap the side of the pot lightly with a wooden stick. Once it has separated from the pot, clean the soil off the roots, prune away the rotten and dried branches on the roots, and then replant it into a new pot.

III. Watering

After it wakes from dormancy, gradually increase the amount of watering. At first, water once a week; by late spring when temperatures rise sharply, water once every two days. When watering, avoid heavy watering, as heavy watering causes waterlogging in the potting soil and will rot its roots. After the temperature exceeds 20°C, also water the branches and leaves to prevent them from drying out.

IV. Fertilizing

The nutrients in the soil alone cannot meet its needs during the growing period, so fertilizing is necessary. When repotting, mix base fertilizer into the soil. After it has adapted to the new potting soil, apply fertilizer once; the fertilizer effect does not need to be too strong, and it is best to use a mild natural fertilizer. In spring, there is no need to apply foliar fertilizer.