How to Create an Osmanthus Bonsai
In the golden autumn, the fragrance of osmanthus flowers fills the air. How to transform this traditional famous flower into an elegant bonsai? Through the perfect combination of scientific cultivation and artistic shaping, an osmanthus bonsai can present the greenery of all seasons and the intoxicating scenery of blooming branches. Mastering the correct creation method, you can also make the osmanthus in your courtyard glow with the unique charm of bonsai art.
The Four Steps of Creating an Osmanthus Bonsai
Selecting Materials and Cultivation
Quality bonsai materials can be obtained through various methods: seeds require 3-5 years to mature, while cuttings can be shaped the following year. Old stem osmanthus grafts found in the wild are the most visually appealing, and it is necessary to preserve a soil ball of over 50cm when digging. It is recommended to choose 3-8-year-old healthy plants, with a main stem diameter of 2-5cm being most suitable for shaping.
Matching Pots with Art
Purple sand and glazed ceramic pots are the preferred choices, with a depth of 30-50cm to ensure root growth. Square pots are dignified, while round pots are elegant. The pot color is recommended to be ocher or deep purple to contrast with the green leaves and golden flowers. The pot diameter should be 2/3 of the tree crown's shadow, with special attention to ensuring that the drainage holes occupy 1/5 of the pot base area.
Scientific Potting Process
The matrix formula should contain 40% humus soil, 30% river sand, 20% perlite, and 10% bone meal. Before potting, disinfect with a potassium permanganate solution, and place a 3cm layer of陶粒 (陶粒 means ceramsite) at the bottom of the pot for drainage. When planting, keep the original soil ball intact and cover the soil to 2cm from the pot edge. Key steps: watering the roots should be done in three stages, with 10-minute intervals to ensure complete penetration.
Technique Analysis for Shaping
Main shaping techniques include: 1) Wiring with metal wire to form a curved trunk style, 2) Pruning and branch training to cultivate an oblique trunk style, and 3) Pinching and removing buds to shape a cloud-like appearance. The best shaping period is one month after flowering, when the sap flow slows down. Key treatment: twist the vigorous branches, apply healing agent to the cuts, and maintain ventilation and light in the tree canopy.
Key Points for Post-Care
In spring and autumn, apply soybean cake fertilizer every month, and switch to potassium dihydrogen phosphate in summer. For shaped trees, adjust the roots every 2 years when repotting, cutting off 1/3 of the old roots. In winter, if the temperature drops below -5°C, the plant needs to be moved indoors, ensuring 4 hours of direct sunlight daily. Through systematic care, an osmanthus bonsai can maintain its ornamental value for decades.
From material selection to shaping, every step requires meticulousness. Mastering the three essentials of temperature control, watering, and pruning, combined with artistic审美眼光 (esthetic vision), will surely make the osmanthus bonsai both naturally interesting and rich in cultural connotation. Advanced enthusiasts can try creating combination bonsais, pairing them with rocks and moss to create a miniature ecological landscape.