Japanese maple, also known as red maple, is deeply loved by gardening enthusiasts for its beautiful autumn leaves. The choice of potting soil is crucial in maintaining Japanese maple bonsai, as it directly affects the growth and ornamental effect of the maple. This article will provide a detailed introduction to the potting techniques for Japanese maple bonsai, helping you create a beautiful art piece of maple leaves.
Principles of Potting Soil for Japanese Maple Bonsai1. Good drainage: Japanese maples are not tolerant to waterlogging, so the potting soil needs to have good drainage to prevent root rot.
2. Moderate aeration: Soil with good aeration is beneficial for root respiration and promotes the growth of the maple.
3. Proper pH value: Japanese maples prefer acidic soil, with a pH value of 5.5-6.5 being suitable.
Ingredients for Potting Soil for Japanese Maple Bonsai1. Decomposed leaf soil: Decomposed leaf soil is rich in organic matter, has good aeration and water retention, and is the preferred soil for Japanese maple bonsai.
2. River sand: River sand has good drainage and can improve the aeration of the soil.
3. Perlite: Perlite is a lightweight material that can increase the aeration and drainage of the soil.
4. Broken brick: Broken brick can increase the aeration and drainage of the soil, while also playing a role in fixing the roots.
Proportions of Potting Soil for Japanese Maple Bonsai1. Decomposed leaf soil : River sand : Perlite = 4 : 1 : 1
2. If using broken brick, the proportion of decomposed leaf soil can be appropriately increased, such as 4 : 1 : 1 : 1.
Precautions for Potting Soil for Japanese Maple Bonsai1. Before potting, the ingredients such as decomposed leaf soil, river sand, and perlite need to be thoroughly mixed.
2. Fertilizers such as bone meal and superphosphate can be added to the soil during potting to supplement soil nutrients.
3. After potting, the soil needs to be compacted to ensure root growth space.
Maintenance of Potting Soil for Japanese Maple Bonsai1. Regular watering: Keep the soil moist but avoid waterlogging.
2. Fertilization: Apply a compound fertilizer once a month to supplement soil nutrients.
3. Pruning: Trim dead and diseased branches in a timely manner to maintain a beautiful tree shape.
Potting soil for Japanese maple bonsai is both an art and a science. Mastering the correct potting techniques can make your maple bonsai grow robustly and blossom beautifully. It is hoped that this article can provide useful references for your maintenance of Japanese maple bonsai.
References:
Gardening: An Introduction, China Agricultural Press, 2018 edition.
Bonsai Art, Shanghai Science and Technology Press, 2017 edition.