Pruning the bonsai.
Follow these instructions from bonsai master Robert Langholm for caring for a miniature C. sinensis plant at home.
Position: Place camellias in an airy, cool location, with partial sun. Keep sheltered from strong winds. Ideal temperature range is 40-60F.
Water: Because camellias have fine superficial roots they should not be allowed to dry out. In order to keep the soil uniformly moist, water as soon as the surface of the soil appears dry. Plants will need less water in winter depending on the temperature. Use “soft” water as camellias do not tolerate alkalinity. Likes an occasional misting, but do not mist while in bloom or the flowers will wither.
Fertilizer: Apply a fertilizer for acid loving plants every two to three weeks after flowering, continuing on into the main growing season. Do not fertilize during the winter or when the plant is in bloom.
Transplanting: Repot ever two to three years in late winter or early spring, after flowering. Root pruning can be done at this time but should be light.
Soil: Camellias are acid loving plants so use a mix of acidic humus-rich soil.
Pruning: Camellias do NOT respond well to hard pruning. Immediately after flowering or during the growing season, prune back the branches of young plants when they have developed at least four to six leaves, leaving two to three leaves in place. Light root pruning can be done yearly.
Wiring: In late spring to autumn when branches have become woody but not brittle. Wire with care so that they are not damaged. Pruning of established bonsai is best done following flowering, pruning only once and then allowing new shoots to set buds.
Propagation: Seed, hardwood cuttings can be taken from winter to summer.
Care for a Cup of Tea from Your Very Own Tree?
This is a recipe from bonsai master Saburo Kato’s mother who job was to serve tea to the master and his apprentices.
- Pick young shoots from your Camellia bonsai or hedge.
- Pour boiling water over the leaves.
- Crush the leaves in your hand until nearly dry.
- Place the leaves in the oven on a tray and dry until crisp whilst retaining their color.
