Michelia Alba Autumn Cultivation
As a fragrant ornamental plant, the care of Michelia Alba in autumn directly affects the quality of flowering the following year. As temperatures gradually cool down, the plant transitions from a period of vigorous growth to dormancy, and proper care methods can help it survive the winter safely. This article systematically analyzes the five core points of autumn care focusing on key elements such as temperature, light, and water and fertilizer.
Light Management and Temperature Control
Gradual Sunlight Adjustment
In autumn, the intensity of sunlight decreases by 3%-5% daily. It is recommended to adopt a stepped lighting strategy: maintain 5 hours of morning direct sunlight in September, extend to full-day scattered light in October, and avoid cold spells in November. Special attention should be paid to the fact that the intensity of UV radiation in the early autumn noon still reaches 80% of the summer level, and a shading net can be used to filter out 30% of the strong light.
Temperature Difference Adjustment Techniques
The ideal day-night temperature difference for Michelia Alba should be controlled at 8-10°C. When the nighttime temperature is below 15°C, it needs to be moved to the window indoors; if the daytime temperature exceeds 25°C, windows should be opened for ventilation. In the northern regions, it is recommended to start building a temporary insulation shed in mid-October.
Precise Water and Fertilizer Management Plan
Smart Watering System
Adopt the 'Three-Finger Detection Method': Insert the index, middle, and ring fingers into the second joint of the pot soil, and water if all three fingers do not feel moisture. It is recommended to use a long-spout pot to slowly pour water along the pot wall until water seeps out of the bottom hole. Reduce watering by 60% during consecutive rainy days.
Segmented Fertilization Strategy
In September, apply a flower-promoting fertilizer with N-P-K=15-30-15, in October switch to slow-release organic fertilizer, and stop fertilizing in November. Note that the dilution concentration should be half of the labeled value, and配合 monthly application of ferrous sulfate to prevent yellow leaf disease.
Key Techniques for Shaping and Pruning
Scientific Pinching Method
Choose a sunny morning to perform this, using a branch剪 that has been disinfected with alcohol, and make a diagonal cut 0.5 cm above the top bud. Focus on dealing with long and crossing branches, retaining 45-degree diagonal branches around the main stem. Apply healing ointment immediately after cutting to prevent infection.
Through light control, precise watering, segmented fertilization, and scientific pruning, the number of new buds of Michelia Alba in autumn can increase by 40%. It is recommended to combine regular pot rotation, leaf surface cleaning, and other detailed management to store sufficient nutrients for the plant to survive the winter. When the minimum temperature is consistently below 10°C, comprehensive cold protection measures should be initiated.