How to care for banyan tree bonsai
Introduction: This article covers the planting of banyan trees for bonsai making, how to care for banyan tree bonsai, with specific details as follows:
Banyan tree bonsai have a unique appearance and are highly valued for their ornamental beauty. Among household plant bonsais, banyan tree bonsai are particularly popular due to their evergreen characteristic. The leaves of the banyan tree are leathery, deep green, and glossy, remaining evergreen throughout the year. The bark is dark brown, the branches are soft, and the tree has powerful aerial roots. Some aerial roots hang down and enter the ground, resembling pillars; others twist and turn downward, intertwining roots, which is quite spectacular. Banyan tree bonsai symbolize a living landscape, and many enthusiasts are eager to learn how to care for them.
1. Light and ventilation: Banyan trees are subtropical plants that prefer a sunny, well-ventilated, warm, and humid environment. They are drought-tolerant and can tolerate semi-shade. They should generally be placed in a well-ventilated and well-lit area with some humidity. Insufficient sunlight, poor ventilation, and lack of humidity can cause the plant to turn yellow and dry, leading to diseases and pests, and eventually death.
2. Watering: When planted in a pot, the banyan tree will wither due to lack of water if it is not watered regularly. Therefore, it is important to observe and water based on the soil's moisture level to maintain soil humidity. Water until water seeps out of the bottom drainage hole, but avoid watering only halfway (i.e., wet on top and dry on bottom). After watering once, wait until the surface of the soil turns white and the top layer of soil is dry before watering again. Do not wait until the potting soil is completely dry to water. In hot seasons, frequently spray water on the leaves or surrounding environment to cool down and increase air humidity. Water less in winter and spring, and more in summer and autumn.
3. Fertilizing: Banyan trees do not require heavy fertilizing; applying 10-20 compound fertilizers per month is sufficient. When fertilizing, bury the fertilizer near the edge of the pot and water immediately afterward. Fertilizers are mainly composed of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
4. Pruning: Pruning is a very important process in transforming wild stakes into a stake landscape. In the first year, focus on cultivating the base and nourishing the vitality, removing only the buds that are not in the right position. Pruning can begin in the second year when the branches have thickened and lignified. Pruning should be the main method, with binding as auxiliary. It's best to prune once a year, but vigorous plants can be pruned twice. After pruning, when the new branches grow strong, prune again. With proper and timely pruning, a good bonsai can be created within four years.
Special note: Banyan tree bonsai should generally be placed in a well-ventilated and well-lit area. If the soil is sandy, more water can be given, while for clay soil, less water is needed because clay soil has poor drainage, and excessive watering can cause root rot. Maintain a certain level of humidity in the space. Insufficient sunlight, poor ventilation, and lack of humidity can easily cause the plant to turn yellow and dry, leading to diseases and pests, and eventually death. If problems arise, carefully observe the specific causes and treat them accordingly.
The above experience and knowledge on how to care for banyan tree bonsai, hoping this article can provide you with some help!