The Care and Management of Banyan Bonsai
Banyan bonsai is favored by horticulture enthusiasts for its robust and ancient appearance, but its care process requires a grasp of scientific methods. As a typical subtropical plant, banyan has special requirements for temperature and humidity control and root care. This article systematically sorts out seven core management points to help you create a lush and flourishing banyan bonsai.
I. Environmental Regulation of Banyan Bonsai
1.1 Temperature and Humidity Control
The optimal growth temperature for banyan is between 18-28°C, with a day-night temperature difference controlled within 10°C. In the north, it is recommended to use a humidifier to maintain air humidity above 60%. In winter, it needs to be moved into a greenhouse and floor heating should be installed. In summer, a water tray can be placed under the pot to evaporate and cool down.
1.2 Light and Ventilation
In spring and autumn, ensure 4-6 hours of scattered light daily, and use a shade net to filter 30% of the light in summer. It is suggested to rotate the bonsai 90 degrees weekly to ensure even exposure to light, and a circulating fan should be used in enclosed environments to maintain air circulation.
II. Water and Fertilization Management Standards for Banyan
2.1 Scientific Watering Techniques
Use the 'bamboo skewer test': Insert a bamboo skewer 2/3 into the potting soil, and if it does not stick to soil when pulled out, water thoroughly. Spray the leaves twice a day in summer, and use warm water at 25°C every 10 days in winter. Special-shaped bonsai can combine the immersion pot method to replenish water.
2.2 Precise Fertilization Plan
In the growing season (March-September), apply a diluted solution of NPK compound fertilizer (10-15-10) monthly, and combine it with EM bacteria solution to improve the soil. In late autumn, apply monopotassium phosphate to enhance cold resistance, and stop fertilizing during dormancy. Under the principle of applying thin and frequent fertilization, dissolve 2g of fertilizer in 500ml of water for a safe concentration.
III. Key Points of Banyan Root Care
3.1 Substrate Proportion Optimization
Use the '221 golden ratio': 2 parts of decomposed leaf soil + 2 parts of red jade soil + 1 part of river sand, and add 5% bone meal every 2 years when repotting. Laying moss on the surface is both aesthetically pleasing and can monitor humidity; when the moss turns white, it is time to water.
3.2 Root Disease Prevention and Treatment
Regularly check the 'three roots': cut off blackened and rotten roots (dead roots), thin out entangled roots (weak roots), and disinfect cut surfaces (injured roots). If root rot is found, immediately apply a solution of metalaxyl-M at 1500 times the concentration to the roots, and accompany it with 10 days of water cutoff care.
IV. Shaping Pruning and Pest Management
4.1 Pruning Timing Techniques
In spring, retain 2-3 buds, pinch back in summer to control excessive growth, and trim heavily in autumn to shape. Use the 'three-level pruning method': primary branches retain 15cm, secondary branches 8cm, and tertiary branches 3cm. Apply healing agent to the wounds to prevent sap flow.
4.2 Comprehensive Disease and Pest Control
Establish a 'prevention-monitoring-control' system: spray with matrine monthly for prevention, use 43% dinotefuran suspension at 3000 times the concentration to kill red spider mites, and use 75% alcohol cotton swabs to physically remove scale insects. Regularly apply systemic insecticides to the roots to establish a protective barrier.
Through systematic care and management, banyan bonsai can maintain its ornamental value for decades. The key is to understand its growth habits and establish a regular care calendar. It is recommended for beginners to start with keeping a care log, gradually mastering the precise timing of watering and pruning, to keep this 'living sculpture' forever vibrant.