How to Bonsai a Newly Planted Garden Tree

Bonsai, the art of growing small trees in containers, is an ancient Japanese practice that has gained popularity all over the world. Bonsai trees can be grown from seeds, cuttings, or even by digging up an established garden tree and pruning it down to a smaller size. In this article, we will discuss how to bonsai a newly planted garden tree.

Choosing the Right Tree

The first step in bonsai-ing a newly planted garden tree is to choose the right kind of tree. Not all trees are well-suited for bonsai. Some trees grow too tall or too fast, while others have leaves that are too big or too small for the desired bonsai size. Some popular choices for bonsai include:

Maple

Birch

Juniper

Pine

Cherry

When selecting a tree, choose one that has a thick trunk and well-distributed branches. The trunk should have a natural taper from the base to the top. Avoid trees that have straight trunks or an awkward branching pattern.

Planting the Tree

Once you have selected a suitable tree, it's time to plant it in a container. Choose a pot that is proportional to the size of the tree. The pot should be shallow and wide. You can use a plastic, ceramic, or clay pot with drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogging.

Before planting the tree, prune its roots to fit in the container. Remove any broken or diseased roots. Spread the root system evenly in the pot and cover with well-draining soil. Water the tree thoroughly and place it in a bright spot where it can get enough sunlight.

Pruning and Wiring

The next step in bonsai-ing a newly planted garden tree is to prune and wire the tree. Pruning involves cutting back the branches and leaves to shape the tree into a desired form. Use sharp tools like scissors or pruning shears to make clean cuts. Avoid leaving stubs or jagged edges.

Wiring is an important technique in bonsai. It involves wrapping thin, flexible wires around the branches and trunk of the tree to bend them into a desired shape. Be careful not to wire too tightly or it can damage the bark. You can remove the wire after a few months once the branch has hardened into the desired shape.

Maintenance

Bonsai trees require regular maintenance to keep them healthy and attractive. Water the tree when the soil is dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, which can drown the roots. Fertilize the tree once a month during the growing season. Repot the tree every two to three years to refresh the soil and prune the roots.

In conclusion, bonsai-ing a newly planted garden tree is a rewarding hobby that requires patience, skill, and dedication. With these tips, you can turn an ordinary tree into a miniature work of art.