Japanese bonsai: how to grow
Miniature trees serve as an unusual element for decorating rooms. They require regular care and a lot of attention. The process of their formation is not only difficult, but also fascinating.
Japanese bonsai: how to grow
The main task when growing a miniature tree is to preserve its natural appearance. It should be indistinguishable from a natural tree. The trunk must be strong and powerful, the root system must be developed. Bonsai branches are tough and visible even in dense canopy. The root is superficial.
Japanese bonsai are grown in special bonsai trees
Dwarf trees vary in size. The smallest specimens do not exceed 5 cm in height. Large plants can grow up to 1,2 meters. It is possible to limit the development of the root system when grown in small vessels. It is better to use seeds for propagation. The Japanese bonsai tree is finally formed in the 4th year of life. For its growth, it is necessary to provide suitable conditions:
- the soil is loose and does not impede free air circulation. It can include sand and peat;
- lighting – the plant needs a lot of sunlight and a long day of light;
- the temperature should not fall below 18 degrees;
- moisture – the soil should be moderately moist, but not retain water.
Bonsai can be grown by cuttings. This method is less preferable than seed propagation. Cuttings of miniature trees do not take root well and often die during transplantation.
The advantage of sakura is the abundant flowering. The diameter of the flowers of the miniature plant is up to 1 cm. The flowers can be arranged separately or collected in inflorescences. They are colored violet, pink, magenta, red and green, depending on the variety. Japanese bonsai are grown in stages:
- Seed preparation – for better germination of seeds before sowing, they are kept for 100 days in a cool place. Before planting, the seeds are immersed in warm water for a day.
- Sowing is carried out to a depth of no more than 1 cm. The soil must be pre-moistened.
- Diving seedlings – overgrown roots are shortened with scissors and the seedlings are transplanted into individual bonsai trees.
- Top dressing – after 2 months, fertilizers can be applied.
To form a tree, you can shorten or pinch young shoots. Wire is installed on the fragile trunk. The bonsai is formed only after flowering.
Sakura is the most suitable plant for growing bonsai. It grows slowly and tolerates indoor conditions well.