Bonsai, as a traditional art form in China, has been passed down through the ages and is deeply loved by a wide range of gardening enthusiasts. In the process of making bonsai, the selection of soil is crucial as it directly affects the growth condition and ornamental value of the bonsai. What kind of soil is commonly used in Chinese bonsai? This article will unveil this mystery for you.
Common Soil Types Used in Chinese Bonsai1. Loess
Loess is a common soil type in the northern part of China, with good breathability and drainage, making it suitable for the growth of most bonsai plants. The pH value of loess is generally between 6.5-7.5, suitable for the growth needs of most bonsai plants.
2. Decomposed Leaf Soil
Decomposed leaf soil is a type of soil with high organic matter content, rich in nutrients, which is beneficial to plant growth. The pH value of decomposed leaf soil is usually between 5.5-6.5, suitable for acid-loving bonsai plants such as azaleas and camellias.
3. Mountain Clay
Mountain clay is a type of soil rich in minerals and organic matter, with good water retention and breathability. The pH value of mountain clay is generally between 5.5-6.5, suitable for the growth of most bonsai plants.
4. Perlite
Perlite is a lightweight, porous mineral with good breathability and drainage. Perlite is often mixed with other soils to improve soil breathability and drainage.
5. Broken Brick and Tile
Broken brick and tile is a commonly used soil conditioner for bonsai, with good breathability and drainage. The pH value of broken brick and tile is generally between 6.5-7.5, suitable for the growth of most bonsai plants.
Precautions for Soil Selection in Chinese Bonsai1. Soil Texture: When selecting soil, pay attention to its texture to ensure the soil's breathability and drainage. Generally speaking, sandy soil has good breathability but poor water retention, while clay soil has good water retention but poor breathability.
2. Soil pH Value: Choose the appropriate soil pH value according to the growth needs of the bonsai plants. Acidic soil is suitable for acid-loving plants such as azaleas and camellias, while neutral soil is suitable for the growth of most bonsai plants.
3. Soil Nutrients: Choosing nutrient-rich soil is beneficial for the growth of bonsai plants. It is appropriate to add decomposed leaf soil, organic fertilizers, etc., to increase the nutrient content of the soil.
4. Soil Disinfection: Before planting bonsai, the soil should be disinfected to prevent the occurrence of diseases and pests.
The common soil types used in Chinese bonsai include loess, decomposed leaf soil, mountain clay, perlite, and broken brick and tile. When selecting soil, pay attention to aspects such as soil texture, pH value, nutrients, and disinfection to ensure the healthy growth of the bonsai plants. It is hoped that this article will be helpful to your journey of bonsai cultivation.