How to Repot Plum Blossom Bonsai
The plum blossom bonsai, as a perfect combination of classical art and plant cultivation, has its soil replacement operation directly affecting the health and shape maintenance of the plant. Mastering the correct timing and techniques for repotting can not only promote root development but also extend the artistic value of the bonsai. This article will illustrate the core operation essentials through diagrams and detailed text explanations.
Complete Process Analysis of Repotting Plum Blossom Bonsai
Criteria for Choosing the Best Timing
It is recommended to repot between the time of Jingzhe and Chunfen (with an average daily temperature of 12-18°C), when the plum blossom is in the early stage of germination, and the accelerated flow of sap is more conducive to root repair. Perform the operation on consecutive sunny days, with air humidity controlled between 50-65%. If it rains, postpone the operation to avoid infection of the cut surfaces with germs.
Professional Four-Step Repotting Method
Root Treatment Techniques
Use the pot edge tapping method to remove the plant from the pot, retaining 1/3 of the protective soil. When using a bamboo skewer to remove the compacted old soil, clean in a radial pattern from the main roots. Trim the roots to keep 3-5 main roots, with the length of thin and weak roots not exceeding 15cm. Cut surfaces should be 45° oblique and sealed with wood ash, with the drying time of the roots controlled between 2-4 hours.
Substrate Mixture Scheme
Recommended formula: Akadama soil 40% + decomposed leaf soil 30% + river sand 20% + bone meal 10%. New pot selection principle: A purple sand or ceramic pot with a diameter 3-5cm larger than the original pot, with a 3cm thick layer of ceramsite at the bottom for drainage. The soil should be sterilized with high-temperature steam or sunlight for 3 days.
Key Points for Shaping and Planting
Plant at the original planting depth and use root lifting to display the sturdy root base. When filling the soil, compact it in layers and use a bamboo skewer to make holes every 2cm for ventilation. After planting, implement the "three watering method for setting roots": water thoroughly the first time → water again after 1 hour → water in the early morning the next day.
Key Points for Post-Repotting Care
After repotting, place the plant in a diffused light environment for 15 days, maintaining a day-night temperature difference of no more than 8°C. After new buds sprout, apply diluted mature soybean cake water (1000 times), supplemented with chelated iron solution every 20 days. Perform the first shaping pruning in the spring of the following year, focusing on removing overgrown branches and dense buds.
With scientific repotting operations combined with meticulous care, the plum blossom bonsai can maintain vigorous vitality. It is recommended to repot every 2-3 years, combining root pruning to achieve dual optimization of the tree's form and physiological function, allowing the classical art of bonsai to thrive under modern cultivation techniques.