Acer palmatum, a Japanese maple, is a great tree to turn into a bonsai tree.As the season progresses, the small maple tree will change into the gorgeous fall colors.You only need a few things to complete the project.
Step 1: Take a cutting of maple in the early summer.
Maple trees are easy to grow.A maple tree branch that is appealing in shape is a good choice.The diameter of the branch is up to your little finger.There are many different types of Japanese maple.Some will grow larger than others, some have rough bark, and some need grafting.It's a good idea to take several cuttings, because sometimes the roots are weak, rot or simply don't form, and you will be assured that one will take well.Red-leafed Japanese maples tend to have weak root systems and are usually transferred onto other rootstocks.Unless you have someone knowledgeable to help you, it might be a good idea to avoid the red-leafed cultivars.
Step 2: Cut around the base of the branch.
Cut through the bark and into the hardwood.
Step 3: A duplicate cut should be made below the first cut.
Step 4: To connect the first two cuts, make a straight cut.
Step 5: Between the first two cuts, peel off the bark.
The bark should be easy to peel off.The green layer under the bark should not be left.
Step 6: Dust the top cut with rooting hormone or wipe it with a rooting gel.
Wrap the area with sphagnum moss, then wrap it with plastic and tie in place.The moss should be kept wet.You should see roots through the plastic after a few weeks.The branches can be put into a compost of good quality.This compost should be kept moist.If the stock is healthy and the conditions are warm and moist, expect roots to form within 2 to 3 weeks.
Step 7: The tree needs to be separated.
Cut off the new tree from the old one when the roots start to turn brown.
Step 8: The pebbles should be placed in the bottom of the pot.
A good mix consists of 80 percent bark and 20 percent peat, as this tends to promote fine feeders roots and give good drainage.If you want to plant a new tree without disturbing the roots, unwrap the plastic and add more soil.sphagnum moss is helpful in hard water areas.
Step 9: Put a small stake in it.
A stake is needed to keep the tree from moving.
Step 10: Enjoy your new tree!
A porch, garden bed area or patio is a good place to keep your bonsai.If brought indoors, only keep them inside for a couple of days, and only bring them in during the winter.The maple tree should be sheltered for the first few years.This can kill it if it is left outside for the first 2 to 3 years.Don't let the plant sit in the sun for the whole day if you place it anywhere windy.After the buds form, feed a balanced feed.Feed with a low- or zero-nitrogen feed during winter.Don't let a tree dry out.It needs to be moist at all times.Rainwater is better for the tree than tap water.It's helpful for healthy growth to have regular spraying with water.As the tree gets established, learn to style it.To give a tree the look of a real tree, you have to reproduce what nature does.Pruning and wiring are included.It can take a lot of practice to get this aspect right, but it's part of the fun of growing your own bonsai.