Bonsai repotting time, duration, root treatment and other methods
The editor will answer your questions about bonsai making, including the time, duration, and root treatment methods for repotting bonsai. Let's follow the editor to see the specific content!
(1) Repotting Time
Repotting time varies depending on the species of trees. It is usually done during the spring and autumn seasons when tree growth is slow. Generally, cold-tolerant species such as elm can be repotted earlier, while warm-loving species like Fujian tea, crape myrtle, and boxwood should be repotted later, close to the beginning of summer.
(2) Repotting Duration
The duration for repotting should be determined based on the size of the bonsai, the type of tree, and its growth. Generally, large pots should be repotted every 3-5 years, medium pots every 2-3 years, and small pots every 1-2 years. Trees with fast growth can be repotted every 1-2 years, while those with slow growth can be repotted every 3-5 years. Vigorous bonsai can have their repotting duration extended. For trees with declining growth, hard potting soil, and poor ventilation and drainage, the repotting time should be shortened.
(3) Removing Old Soil
Every time repotting, depending on the specific situation, remove 1/3-1/2 of the old soil and replace it with new soil.
(4) Root Treatment
Bonsai trees that have been cultivated for one or two years often have old roots that fill the bottom of the pot, which affects the absorption of water and nutrients. Therefore, it is necessary to剪除 old and rotten roots during repotting to promote the growth of new roots. The roots are best treated with medical eye ointment or sulfonamide ointment for disinfection. The purpose of using medication to disinfect the trimmed roots is to prevent bacterial infections.
(5) Pot Bottom Treatment
The drainage holes at the bottom of the pot should be covered with tiles or other thin materials that can prevent soil loss during watering. At the same time, coal cinders or coarse sand can be placed at the bottom of the pot to aid in drainage.
(6) Cleaning and Disinfecting the Bonsai Pot
Used bonsai pots must be cleaned before reuse, as they can easily transmit bacteria.
(7) Moisture of Potting Soil
Both overly wet and overly dry potting soil is not conducive to repotting. Excessively wet soil is prone to sticking to the roots, which is not conducive to root pruning and removing old soil; excessively dry soil can damage the roots during repotting. It is best to water the pot thoroughly before repotting, and then repot when the soil is moderately wet.
(8) Management After Repotting
After repotting, the bonsai should be placed in a semi-shaded and well-ventilated area and watered thoroughly with a fine spray. Only after new roots have sprouted can it be gradually moved to a sunny area for care.
The above content about the time, duration, and root treatment methods for repotting bonsai is hoped to be helpful to greenery enthusiasts!