If you put the branch of a corkscrew willow as a cutting in the propagation bed, it is not mandatory that it turns into a majestic ornamental shrub. Thanks to its diverse advantages, a Salix matsudana is definitely suitable for outdoor bonsai. You can find out how to implement the ambitious plan here.
A bonsai with pussy willow is a real feast for the eyes
This is how you direct a cutting towards a bonsai
At the beginning of its existence as a cutting, the branch is not yet aware that it will lead a life as a bonsai. Pruning and cultivation do not differ from the conventional process of vegetative propagation. How to proceed:
- Take a semi-lignified, non-flowering head cutting in early summer
- Place the scissors under a leaf knot over a length of 15-20 cm
- Remove leaves and buds from the lower half of the shoot
To ensure that the small branch is presented in proper style right from the start, fill the cultivation substrate in a bonsai pot. A mix of Akadama and Perlite (€37.51) in a ratio of 3:2 has proven to be a good bonsai soil. Finally, water a little and place the bonsai candidate in a partially shaded, warm window seat.
With the right care for a mini tree
A corkscrew willow bonsai spends the warm season on the balcony in a bright location that is not in full sun. Please keep the substrate constantly slightly moist, as it dries out quickly due to the small volume. From May to September, a bonsai liquid fertilizer keeps growth going. Since the little tree is constantly striving to become a big one, the following pruning program is the be-all and end-all in bonsai cultivation. That is how it goes:
Once the shoot has reached the desired growth height, it is consistently pinched during the summer. To do this, cut off each additional terminal bud. In this way, the bonsai is encouraged to develop more side shoots and less to strive upwards. Over time, the trunk grows in thickness and unfolds an enchanting crown of twisting branches.
tips
As long as bonsai substrate contains a proportion of organic components, there is a risk of infection with lurking pathogens of fatal diseases. Therefore, place the soil in a heat-resistant bowl in the oven at 150 degrees for 20 minutes to reliably destroy viruses, fungal spores and insect eggs.