Repotting season has started

The repotting season has started. Deciduous Shohin bonsai are lined up. Where repotting is needed it is executed now.  It is time just before the leafs opens, showing full activity in the tree. Only trees that have a rootball making a health problem are repotted. Or when a new pot is a priority because of aesthetical reasons. As long as any corrections of the rootball isn’t necessary, as it shouldn’t be at established bonsai, there are no need for regular repottings. The longer the roots can be left undisturbed and healthy, the better the tree will be in good health and growth.

There are no rigid rules that can tell when repotting is needed.

It has much to do with observing the trees. Knowing their growth pattern and health.

Also a conifer is on the worktable for a repotting. In opposition to many other conifers preferring a later repotting, the needle juniper, Juniperus rigida, reacts better on early repotting.

Shohin height

A small correction of the height of the tree was done, so it fits the Shohin category that allows trees at a maximum around 20cm (give and take). A few small branches were removed, and the top lowered by simple wiring and repositioning them slightly. After that repotting into a bonsai pot. With such a small work it is not a problem to repot a healthy growing bonsai, that also shows a very healthy rootball. If the rootball shows signs of weakness with dead roots, then make just a secure repotting in the original or a slightly larger training pot to better the condition and growth. (Pictures in the gallery below the article).

Lowering the height of the tree from app. 22 cm to 19 cm making it fit the Shohin bonsai category.

Acer palmatum, Japanese maple.

Juniperus rigida, needle juniper.