The podocarpus bonsai is an upright, dense evergreen tree with pointed dark green and leathery leaves. It is one of the most preferred and popular variety among bonsai lovers and amateurs. The leaves of this plants is an exception, they are arranged on stiff and symmetrical branches that works as a screen, hedge or framing tree, making a shape of pyramidal to oval outline.
The growth of this tree varies with climate, the trunk and the bark formation takes quite a few years. The habit of compact branching and the dark green foliage makes this tree very dense in full sun. Podocarpus bonsai grows slow indoors but if planted in sunny areas they have faster growth rate.
Types of Podocarpus bonsai
Some species of podocarpus that can be used as bonsai are Podocarpus alpinus, Podocarpus nivalis, Podocarpus macrophylla, Podocarpus nagi and Podocarpus macrophylla Maki.
Ways to take care of Podocarpus bonsai
If you are willing to go for podocarpus bonsai, then you must know how to take proper care of this kind of bonsai so that its growth and health is maintained. The regular lighting just like any other bonsai is important. Podocarpus prefers direct sunlight. However, if exposed to extreme sun-intense areas, this bonsai can suffer leaf-burn; therefore shade should be provided to the plant during the hottest part of the day. You need to keep in mind that too little sunlight might result in large and elongated needles.
Watering - It is an essential part for the growth of podocarpus bonsai. This variety prefers moist soil, but there should be provision of adequate drainage. Misting everyday will prove good for the indoor plants. Gray needles are a sign of over watering.
Temperature - This bonsai variety can withstand light frost, and it can be grown indoors in well-lit spots. This bonsai variety prefers winter temperatures ranging from 61 to 68 F, keeping in above 55 F will give best results.
Roots - Since podocarpus roots easily grow, you can place the softwood cuttings in water till the roots are formed and then transplant it into bonsai soil. Podocarpus bonsais are often harmed by root rot on soils and mealy bugs and sooty molds.
Cutting - Young podocarpus has the tendency to grow up straight, which can be avoided by cutting them back hard, resulting in aggressive back budding. You can pinch back new growth and remove the oversized needles.
Fertilizers - Fish emulsion and fertilizer are good for the podocarpus bonsai. You can also use liquid bonsai fertilizer, which must be applied every two weeks and six weeks in summer and winter months respectively. Podocarpus has a likeness for acid soil and also needs additional iron and magnesium.
Thus, if you like bonsai growing, podocarpus is a good choice.
