Material selection and preparation, transplantation and pruning, maintenance and management of bonsai, as one of the traditional arts of China, has attracted the attention of countless enthusiasts with its unique artistic charm and profound cultural heritage. Saplings, as the basis of bonsai production, are of great importance to selection and maintenance. This article will provide you with a detailed analysis of how to cultivate saplings into exquisite bonsai, so that you can enjoy the art of bonsai while also experiencing the fun of creating it yourself. Material selection and preparation 1. Selection of seedlings Selecting suitable saplings is the first step in making bonsai. Saplings should be selected from varieties that grow healthily, have beautiful shapes, and are easy to survive. Common bonsai saplings include pine, cypress, plum, bamboo, etc. When selecting saplings, the following points should be paid attention to: -Age of saplings: Generally speaking, it is more appropriate to choose 2-3 years old saplings. Too small or too large saplings are not conducive to making bonsai.
- Shape of saplings: Choose saplings with straight trunks, lush branches and leaves, and unique tree shapes.
- Health status of saplings: Ensure that the saplings are free of pests and diseases, dead branches, and pests.
2. Preparing tools To make bonsai, you need to prepare the following tools: -Bonsai pot: Select the appropriate bonsai pot according to the size and shape of the saplings.
- Sapling transplantation tools: such as shovels, hoes, etc.
- Cutting tools such as scissors and saws.
- Fertilizers, fungicides, etc. Transplantation and pruning 1. Transplantation Transplant the selected saplings into a bonsai pot, noting the following points: -Sapling transplanting time: Generally choose spring or autumn for transplanting, when the saplings grow vigorously and are easy to survive.
- Planting depth: The root neck of the saplings should be level with the pot surface to avoid being too deep or too shallow.
- Fixing: Use string to fix the saplings in the pot to prevent the wind from blowing them down.
2. Pruning and pruning is a key link in making bonsai. The following are some pruning techniques: -pruning time: Usually pruning is carried out in spring or autumn, when the saplings grow vigorously and the pruning effect is better.
- Pruning method: Trim according to the shape and needs of the saplings, such as pruning branches, adjusting tree shapes, etc.
- Trim tools: Use sharp scissors or saw to trim to avoid damaging the saplings. Maintenance and management 1. Watering is an important part of bonsai maintenance. The following are some watering techniques: -Watering time: Generally choose to water in the morning or evening. At this time, the temperature is suitable and the water evaporates slowly.
- Watering method: Use dipping basin method or spraying method to ensure that the roots of the saplings fully absorb water.
- Watering frequency: Adjust the watering frequency according to the growth of the seedlings and climatic conditions.
2. Fertilization and fertilization help the growth and development of saplings. The following are some fertilization techniques: -Fertilization time: Fertilization is usually carried out in spring and autumn, when the saplings grow vigorously.
- Fertilization method: Use liquid fertilizer or solid fertilizer and adjust it according to the growth needs of saplings.
- Fertilization frequency: Generally apply fertilizer 1-2 times a month.
3. Prevention and control of pests and diseases are important factors affecting the growth of bonsai. The following are some prevention and control skills: -Observe saplings: Regularly observe the growth status of saplings and detect pests and diseases in a timely manner.
- Control methods: Adopt physical control, biological control and chemical control methods to control pests and diseases.
Making bonsai is a challenging and fun activity. By selecting suitable saplings, transplanting, pruning, maintenance and management, we can cultivate saplings into exquisite bonsai. I hope this article can provide some useful reference for the majority of bonsai lovers. Let more people enjoy the charm of bonsai art.