What Fertilizer to Use When Repotting a Banyan Tree
As a representative of tropical evergreen plants, the banyan tree is deeply favored by horticulture enthusiasts for its unique aerial root formation. Repotting and fertilizing are among the most critical steps in maintenance, directly affecting the plant's nutrient absorption efficiency and growth vitality. Choosing the right type of fertilizer and mastering scientific application methods can make the banyan tree's roots stronger and leaves more lustrous.
Guide to Fertilizer Selection for Repotting Banyan Trees
1.1 Analysis of High-Quality Basic Fertilizers
Bean cake fertilizer contains 18% crude protein and various trace elements, which can promote root branching; bone meal is rich in tricalcium phosphate, which can enhance xylem development; fully decomposed chicken manure contains beneficial microorganisms and is recommended to be mixed with garden soil in a 3:1 ratio. Special attention should be paid to organic fertilizers sold in the market, which should have a "fully fermented" label to avoid root burn risks.
1.2 Golden Ratio for Adding Basic Fertilizers
The matrix preparation is recommended to use a structure of peat soil: perlite: basic fertilizer = 5:3:2, with no more than 800 grams of bean cake fertilizer or 500 grams of bone meal added per cubic meter of matrix. For large pots (diameter > 50cm), the amount can be increased by 20%, while for mini landscapes, it should be halved.
Core Techniques for Topdressing Management
2.1 Fertilization Plan During the Growth Cycle
From March to October during the growing period, follow the principle of "light and frequent fertilization," applying a nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium 15-5-10 compound fertilizer solution (0.2% concentration) every 15 days. During the leaf expansion stage, additional phosphorus-potassium fertilizer should be applied, and for fruiting varieties, calcium-magnesium fertilizer should be supplemented. Fertilization should be strictly stopped during the winter dormancy period, and field-grown plants can be applied with overwintering organic fertilizers.
2.2 List of Fertilizer Usage Taboos
Unfermented raw fertilizers can produce hydrogen sulfide that damages the roots; a concentration of fast-acting chemical fertilizers >0.3% can cause salt damage; alkaline fertilizers can change the soil pH value. If the leaf edges become scorched, immediate root washing and repotting should be done, combined with brassinolide for repair.
Dealing with Special Maintenance Scenarios
Apply indole butyric acid during the aerial root development stage to promote growth, and use slow-release fertilizers during the transition from hydroponics to soil culture. In case of fertilizer damage, rinse the matrix three times with the siphon method, cut off the blackened roots, and apply charcoal powder for disinfection. Regularly check the EC value to keep it between 1.2-1.8mS/cm.
Through scientific proportioning of basic fertilizers and precise topdressing management, combined with regular soil loosening and aeration, the banyan tree can maintain a vigorous growth state. It is recommended to replace the potting soil every 2 years, combined with root pruning, to perfectly present the charm of the ancient tree in a small pot.