There are probably only a few hobby gardeners who would not like to have a walnut tree in their green oasis. However, most people lack the space they need. That's why some gardeners are seriously considering just keeping a walnut as a bonsai. But is that even possible - and if so, how? In this guide you will receive some tips on walnut trees as bonsai.
With a little finesse, the walnut tree can be raised as a bonsai
Bonsai - short definition
Bonsai is the Japanese version of an old type of garden art from the Far East. With this kind of garden art, shrubs or trees are grown in small containers or outdoors to limit growth and shaped aesthetically. The special art form probably originated in China - there it is called Penjing.
Walnut tree as a bonsai - possible?
Experienced hobby and professional gardeners know: Not every plant is suitable for being kept as a bonsai - and the walnut tree is actually one of these "difficult cases" (just like other nut trees). Basically, no walnut tree can be grown as a real bonsai.
One can only try to grow a larger bonsai from a meter in height.
Tips for walnut bonsai
The fact is that a walnut tree can only be "transformed" into a bonsai from the age of about four years. First of all, you need to germinate the walnut and plant the seedling in a pot so that it can grow as usual.
In the spring after these two years, the first root cut should be made. During this act, care must be taken to ensure that there are enough fibrous roots. In this case, you can gradually shorten the tree's taproot by a third at a time. step by step means:
- Shorten the taproot by a third after two years.
- Put the plant back in the pot.
- Wait at least two years.
- Shorten the taproot again by a third.
You should then only prune the plants once a year in August or September - due to the growth cycle. The walnut bonsai needs enough energy to sprout again next year. In addition, the tree bleeds profusely. The wounds heal the fastest in the summer.
Caution: Bonsai walnuts are sensitive to fungi. In order to prevent the fungus from penetrating the cuts, you must work particularly cleanly. Otherwise whole branches will die off.
Only grow the walnut as a bonsai in the garden - the tree is out of the question for keeping indoors. Frost-free hibernation is important - if necessary, leave the shell deep in the garden soil.
Finally, the note that you can also fail with the experiment of keeping a walnut tree as a bonsai. Be aware of this.