During long hot, dry spells ( if we are lucky enough to get any ) I stand my pots in an old aluminium pan half filled with water for several minutes to give them a good soak. I add liquid feed to the water once a week.

Mist spraying is also beneficial, again do this in the evening. I do not spray oaks as they are prone to mildew, I just wet the leaves when I water them.

FEEDING

Most Bonsai require feeding every two weeks from spring to autumn. Exeptions are Pines which need only be fed once a month.

Liquid feed (CHRYSAL)is best although in very hot weather pellets can be used. these are placed on the surface of the soil and the nutrients are washed in during watering. Also a granular feed such as Chempak Bonsai Food is a good all-round alternative as this partially disolves in water but is retained longer in the soil.

POSITION

Use my species guide to determine where to place your Bonsai. They may look good displayed together in a sunny spot but some will inevitably suffer.

 

Carefully remove the Bonsai from its pot and comb out the roots using a root hook. At least a third of the old soil should be removed. Then cut the longest roots back to create a compact root ball with a flat base. The basic idea is to encourage fine roots which grow quickly to give the tree vigour. If thick roots are cut use a wound sealant to stop "bleeding" and reduce the chance of infection.

 

Position the Bonsai in its pot on a layer of  fresh soil and anchor it with copper wire threaded through the holes in the pot and through the roots. This will hold the tree in position until the new root growth begins. Top up the pot with soil and water well.

 

Protect from frost for a few weeks and keep well watered.

 

I have been using Akadama, authentic clay based Japanese potting medium. Maples love it and mine have done really well growing in it. I have also experimented using it for an Elm and results are good so far.