From my perspective as an Aglaia odorata, my roots crave a home that is both secure and breathable. Please select a pot with ample drainage holes; I dread having my roots sit in water. A pot that is 2-4 inches wider than my current root ball is ideal—too large, and the excess soil stays wet for too long, risking my health. As for my soil, I yearn for a mix that is my perfect anchor: well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral, and rich in organic matter. A blend of high-quality potting soil, perlite, and a handful of compost or peat moss will make me feel perfectly supported and ready to thrive.
My relationship with water is one of delicate balance. I enjoy consistent moisture but will suffer greatly if overwatered. Please water me deeply when the top 1-2 inches of my soil feel dry to your touch. Allow the water to flow through my pot's drainage holes, ensuring my entire root system gets a drink, and then let me be until I need more. I am not a glutton, but I do appreciate being fed. During my active growing season (spring and summer), a monthly serving of a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, diluted to half-strength, gives me the energy to produce my fragrant, tiny yellow blooms.
I am a sun-worshipper at heart, but I prefer the gentle warmth of the morning or late afternoon. A spot with bright, indirect light for most of the day is my paradise. I can tolerate some direct morning sun, but the harsh, intense afternoon rays can scorch my beautiful, glossy leaves. I am a tropical being, so I thrive in temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C - 29°C). Please bring me indoors well before the first frost if you live in a cooler climate, as I am highly sensitive to the cold.
I am a naturally compact and bushy plant, but I welcome an annual trim to maintain my elegant shape and encourage fuller growth. The best time for this is in the spring, just as I begin my most vigorous growth period. You can gently prune my stems back, and I will readily respond by producing new shoots and leaves. This is also an excellent opportunity to remove any leggy, damaged, or dead branches, which allows me to direct my energy toward healthy new growth.
Every few years, I may start to feel a bit cramped in my pot. You will know it's time when my roots begin to circle the inside of the container or grow out of the drainage holes. When repotting me, please be gentle with my root system. Choose a new container that is only one size larger, refresh my soil, and place me back in my favorite sunny spot. This refreshment of my environment invigorates me and supports my continued growth and well-being for seasons to come.
