Speaker
Caring for your Herbal Bonsai
Shaping: I use basic Bonsai techniques in
shaping the herb into a tree, keeping in mind the individual character of each
herb. Every species has its own unique qualities, just like human beings!
I prune the weak branches and straight, long, pruning in a cycle for the least
amount of stress. Herbs are very forgiving, but too much stress can cause
weakness or a slow recovery. For ground cover, I use edible low growing
herbs that have a bushy, clumping quality that spreads over the soil and around
rocks creating a lovely landscaped appearance. Using a variety of colors,
shapes and textures adds interest and herbal choices for use in larger
containers.
Pruning & Trimming: Prune above joint, cutting one side of split growth off creating a new tip, and use cuttings for fragrance, teas, cooking, potpourri, insect repellent or to start new plants. The more you prune and use your herbs the stronger and healthier they become. It's a perfect marriage!
Root Pruning: When pruning the roots for potting in a container, carefully separate soil from roots at base of plant and trim 1/3 off. Position your Herbal Bonsai in container with fresh bonsai soil combo, secure with floral pins or wire through base of container. Give your bonsai landscape 1-3 months to re-establish itself in its new environment. If desired placement an depth is not achieved with first planting, remove tree and follow same root-pruning and repotting techniques to optimum position.
Soil: A combination of bonsai soil (Haydite, Turface, Sized Bedrock), and good quality organic potting soil. This mixture will give your herbal bonsai the nutrients its roots require for proper growth.
Light: Herbs require 5 hours of sunlight, preferably afternoon sun (outdoors in summer, indoors in winter).
Feeding: Basic (20-20-20) 2-3 times/week during spring/summer months. Continue feeding during fall/winter, but cut back frequency to 1-2 times/month.
By following these techniques, your Herbal Bonsai will thrive and become an edible, fragrant conversation piece to enjoy in your home for many years!!
The Creative Bonsai
Sylvia A. Braderman, Herbal Bonsai Artist
717-652-2250
email: bonsai129@aol.com
Hosting by The Herbal Connection