Indoor Cultivation Methods and Precautions for米兰
As a widely popular aromatic plant,米兰 often exhibits issues such as yellow leaves and failure to bloom when cultivated indoors. Actually, by mastering a few core points, one can ensure that this evergreen shrub grows healthily in a residential environment. Through practical cultivation experience, this article provides you with a complete knowledge framework for the cultivation of米兰.
Ⅰ. Four Pillars of Successful Cultivation
Soil Selection Determines Life and Death
米兰's root system is highly sensitive to soil, and it is recommended to use the golden combination of「peat soil + perlite + decomposed leaf soil」（proportion 4:3:3）. Every spring, supplement with 5cm of decomposed pine needles to increase acidity and improve drainage. Avoid using heavy garden soil, as it can easily cause root rot.
Watering Depends on Bud Points
Observing the new bud points is a clear indicator for watering: water thoroughly when the bud tips show slight wrinkling, and supplement with foliar spraying in summer. During the bud differentiation period (March-April), control watering for 20 days to promote flowering by creating short-term drought.
Fertilization in Stages
Apply a balanced nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium fertilizer every 10 days during the growing period, and switch to potassium dihydrogen phosphate (0.1% concentration) after budding. After flowering, promptly supplement with bone meal + ferrous sulfate to restore vitality and adjust the soil pH value.
Light Control for Preventing Excessive Growth
Ensure 4 hours of direct sunlight daily, and it is recommended to place it on an east-facing windowsill. When using grow lights, maintain a distance of 30cm and limit daily supplemental lighting to no more than 3 hours. Insufficient light can cause internodes to lengthen and leaf spacing to increase.
Ⅱ. Maintenance Principles for Continuous Health
The pot replacement cycle is suggested to be controlled within 18 months, choosing a new pot 5cm larger than the original. When repotting, retain 1/3 of the protective soil, trim dense roots, and soak with carbendazim. In daily maintenance, rotate the pot regularly to ensure even light exposure for the plant.
Through systematic maintenance management, not only can米兰 maintain its evergreen appearance indoors throughout the year, but it can also achieve the astonishing performance of blooming 3-4 times a year. The key lies in understanding its growth patterns, establishing a scientific maintenance rhythm, and allowing this fragrant plant from the subtropics to truly adapt to modern household environments.