Crabapple, as one of China's traditional famous flowers, has enjoyed the reputation of "the fairy in flowers" since ancient times. Crabapple bonsai, as an important part of Chinese bonsai art, is deeply loved by a wide range of horticulture enthusiasts for its unique shapes and rich varieties. This article will provide a detailed introduction to the varieties of crabapple bonsai and their care techniques, helping you to better appreciate and care for these exquisite bonsai works.
Crabapple Bonsai Varieties1. Xifu Crabapple
Xifu Crabapple, also known as pink flower crabapple, is a common variety in Chinese crabapple bonsai. Its flowers are pink with layer upon layer of petals, resembling clouds and mist. Xifu Crabapple bonsai has high ornamental value and is suitable for viewing in spring.
2. Lizi Crabapple
Lizi Crabapple, also known as red crabapple, has large and bright flowers in deep red. Lizi Crabapple bonsai has high ornamental and collectible value, making it a gem among crabapple bonsai.
3. Lichun Crabapple
Lichun Crabapple, also known as four-season crabapple, has small and numerous flowers in pink or white. Lichun Crabapple bonsai blooms throughout the year, offering high ornamental value and a long viewing period.
4. Taoli Crabapple
Taoli Crabapple has small flowers in light pink or white. Taoli Crabapple bonsai has high ornamental value and is suitable for indoor placement.
5. Jinsi Crabapple
Jinsi Crabapple has light yellow flowers with golden edges on the petals, as if镶嵌 with golden threads. Jinsi Crabapple bonsai has high ornamental and artistic value.
Crabapple Bonsai Care Techniques1. Pot and Soil Selection
For crabapple bonsai, it is recommended to choose a ceramic pot with good breathability and drainage. Use fertile sandy soil with good drainage, and you can add some decomposed leaf soil and garden soil.
2. Watering and Fertilizing
Watering crabapple bonsai should follow the principle of "water when dry, keep moist", avoiding waterlogging. Apply a compound fertilizer once a month during the growing season, and increase the application of phosphorus and potassium fertilizers before and after flowering.
3. Light and Ventilation
Crabapple bonsai should be placed in a well-ventilated and sunny area. Avoid direct sunlight in summer to prevent leaf burn, and reduce watering in winter to keep the soil dry.
4. Pruning and Shaping
Pruning crabapple bonsai should follow the principle of "remove the weak, retain the strong, remove the diseased, retain the healthy". Adjust the length and direction of branches according to the shaping needs of the bonsai. When shaping, follow the principle of "sparse and dense, high and low undulations" to give the bonsai more artistic beauty.
5. Disease and Pest Control
Crabapple bonsai may encounter diseases and pests during growth. It is important to observe and deal with them in a timely manner. Biological or chemical pesticides can be used for prevention and control.
Crabapple bonsai is a wonder in the realm of Chinese bonsai art, possessing extremely high ornamental and collectible value. Understanding the varieties and care techniques of crabapple bonsai can help us better appreciate and care for these exquisite works. It is hoped that this article can provide some assistance for your journey in bonsai care.