If your bonsai has a carpet of moss at its feet, this aspect increases the aesthetic value tremendously. At the same time, the moss cover protects the substrate from drying out prematurely. The question arises as to how the moss is settled on bonsai soil. Learn more about two practical methods here.

Moss keeps the bonsai substrate moist

Collect fresh moss and transplant it properly - this is how it works

In the garden, keep an eye out for moss that thrives in a location similar to that favored by your bonsai. You will find suitable types of moss for this purpose in sunny to semi-shady locations on a stony subsoil. It is better to ignore moss from a shady, permanently damp corner. This is how you transplant the fresh moss to the bonsai soil:

  • Lift the moss off the substrate with a spatula
  • Divide into several segments with your fingers
  • Using tweezers, implant each piece of moss halfway into the bonsai soil
  • Irrigate with soft water from the spray bottle

Since common bonsai soil consists of one third humus, the transplanted moss grows quickly under your bonsai. Mist the mossy area regularly until the plantlets are established.

Underplanting bonsai with dried moss - How to do it right

Fresh moss always carries the risk of harboring cunning pathogens or pests. You avoid this risk by drying the collected moss. This method also has the advantage that you can mix and match different types of moss to create a colorful underplanting. Here's how to do it correctly:

  • Collect suitable moss in sunny to partially shaded locations
  • Leave to dry in an airy place for 14 days
  • Crumble the dried moss with your fingers
  • Sprinkle on the bonsai soil and spray with water

In the following weeks, spray the bonsai substrate daily until a dense carpet of moss has developed.

tips

When delicate stems with tiny spore capsules rise from the moss beneath a bonsai, this is an excellent opportunity for propagation. Cut off the small stems and crush the spore pods on a plate. Pick up the spores with a brush to apply to Akadama or similar bonsai soil. Put another plastic bag over the propagation pot and water from below.

Category:

Vegetable garden