Bonsai, as a traditional art form in our country, is loved by gardening enthusiasts for its unique artistic charm and profound cultural heritage. During the maintenance of bonsai, watering issues often plague many beginners, especially the phenomenon of soil compaction, which not only affects the growth of bonsai but may also cause root rot. What should be watered to prevent compaction in bonsai? This article will provide you with a detailed explanation.
Understanding the causes of soil compactionBonsai soil compaction refers to the phenomenon where particles in the potting soil stick together tightly due to improper watering, leading to poor soil aeration and the inability of roots to breathe normally. The main reasons for soil compaction are as follows:
1. Excessive watering: Frequent watering keeps the soil in a moist state for a long time, causing the air in the soil to be squeezed out and forming compaction.
2. Poor soil quality: Using soil with high stickiness, such as clay, is prone to compaction after watering.
3. Improper watering method: Watering directly from above with a strong impact of water flow can easily cause soil compaction.
Prevention methods for soil compactionHaving understood the causes of soil compaction, let's explore how to prevent it.
1. Choose suitable soil: Select soil with good aeration and drainage, such as peat soil and coarse sand, to reduce the incidence of compaction.
2. Control the watering frequency: Reasonably control the watering frequency based on the growth stage of the bonsai and climatic conditions. Generally, watering is more frequent in spring and autumn, while it should be reduced appropriately in summer and winter.
3. Watering method: Use the immersion method for watering, which involves placing the bonsai in a container filled with clean water and allowing the soil to absorb moisture naturally. This method can reduce the impact of water flow and lower the risk of compaction.
4. Use root stimulants: When watering, you can add root stimulants such as root powder or root solution, which help promote root growth and improve soil aeration.
5. Regularly loosen the soil: Regularly use a small spade to gently loosen the surface of the potting soil to help improve soil structure and prevent compaction.
What should be watered to prevent compaction in bonsai? The answer is to choose suitable soil, control the watering frequency, use the immersion method for watering, use root stimulants, and regularly loosen the soil. By using these methods, you can effectively prevent soil compaction in bonsai and make your bonsai vigorous.
References:
1. "Bonsai Art," China Forestry Publishing House, 2018.
2. "Bonsai Maintenance Techniques," Shanghai Science and Technology Publishing House, 2017.
3. "Bonsai Horticulture," People's Post and Telecommunication Press, 2016.