Is it easy to care for a high mountain banyan bonsai?
Summary: This article discusses whether it is easy to care for a high mountain banyan bonsai and provides some basic knowledge on caring for high mountain banyans. Let's delve into the details below.
Also known as the large leaf banyan or the great green tree, the high mountain banyan is cultivated in many regions of our country. The plant can reach a height of 25 to 30 meters and is relatively thick, with a diameter of about 40 to 90 centimeters. Its bark is gray and very smooth. In addition to outdoor planting, high mountain banyans can also be grown at home. Below is an introduction to the cultivation methods and precautions for high mountain banyans.
I. Cultivation Methods
1. Soil
The high mountain banyan does not have high requirements for soil, and many gardening enthusiasts prefer to mix their own nutrient-rich soil. The composition of the nutrient-rich soil includes decayed leaf soil, yellow soil, river sand, and coal slag, mixed in a ratio of 1:1:1:1. This type of soil is loose, breathable, has good drainage, and strong water retention, making it more suitable for the growth of high mountain banyans.
2. Watering
High mountain banyans are drought-tolerant but not flood-tolerant. When watering, be careful with the amount of water. Generally, water when the potting soil is completely dry, and do not keep the soil moist for extended periods, nor should there be standing water in the pot. In spring and autumn, water once a week; in summer, water twice a day, and also spray water mist on the plant surface and around the plant to increase humidity.
3. Temperature
Maintaining a temperature between 20 to 30°C is most conducive to the growth of high mountain banyan plants. If the temperature drops below 14°C, it is necessary to keep the plant warm. If the temperature exceeds 32°C, it is necessary to cool down.
4. Light
Adequate light supply is necessary for the robust growth of high mountain banyans. However, during the hottest part of the day in summer, when sunlight is strong, it is necessary to provide some shade to avoid scorching the plant.
5. Fertilizing
Fertilizing high mountain banyans mainly involves using nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizers. During its growing season, apply monopotassium phosphate once a month and also spray an appropriate amount of growth regulator to make its appearance more attractive.
II. Precautions
1. Soil replacement and root lifting
Every two to three years, it is necessary to replace the potting soil of the high mountain banyan and perform root lifting. Stop watering two weeks before replacement, and after the potting soil is dry, separate the pot from the soil by tapping the pot walls. Replace 2/3 of the soil in the pot with new, well-mixed soil. Root lifting is done on the premise that the potting soil has good drainage, and by pouring a large amount of water at the root area, the roots can be flushed out. Note that the bottom of the pot should be elevated when repotting.
2. Diseases and pests
During the growth of high mountain banyans, some diseases and pests may occur. If leaf spot disease or powdery mildew occurs, remove the affected leaves and then spray with Bordeaux mixture. If there are scale insects on the plant, spray with dimethoate.
3. Overwintering
As winter approaches and the weather gets cold, move the high mountain banyan pot indoors. Also, make sure the pot is not too close to radiators or coal stoves.
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