Between varieties olive trees known, it is possible to distinguishcultivated olive tree andwild olive tree, also called olive, characterized by smaller dimensions. Both of these plants belong to the Olea genus and belong to the Oleaceae family.
The olive bonsai is one of plant most fascinating in the bonsai world. With his leaves silver a strain braided, this plant is very characteristic at first glance and conveys a sense of ancient majesty and tranquility. Like all bonsai, it requires targeted and constant care.
Caring for olive bonsai
Proper care is essential for the health and longevity of your olive bonsai. Here are some of the main aspects to consider:
- Soil: Olive bonsai thrives land rich in organic matter and can filter water well. A very popular choice among farmers and enthusiasts is to use a specific substrate for bonsai or a mixture of akadama, pumice and soil for plantsin order to guarantee a drainage optimal and good aeration of the roots.
- Irrigation: Olive bonsai requires regular watering, but it is important to avoid excess water. Before watering, check the soil moisture by sticking your finger into the substrate. If the soil is still wet, delay watering to avoid the risk of root rot. Further for water there are multiple factors to consider such as the size of the plant, the type of location chosen and the time of year it is located.
- Fertilization: during the growing season, from spring to early autumn, the olive bonsai needs balanced fertilization. Use a bonsai specific fertilizer or a fertilizer the slow release allows you to provide a sufficient amount essential nutrients.
- Transplantation: Olive bonsai trees should be transplanted into larger containers every two or three years to encourage exponential growth. This operation is usually carried out in the spring after the start of active growth and before too intense summer heat. For optimal execution transplanting it is advisable to cut the roots slightly to stimulate branching, remove root mass in excess and finally redistribute it in New glass.
Olive tree bonsai pruning
PUSH pruning it is one of the basic procedures for modeling the shape and structure of olive bonsai trees. Experts differentiate training pruning from that maintenance.
The first is done in spring or early summer to define the structure of the olive bonsai. On this occasion, all unwanted branches are removed, i.e sprouts and leaves larger. The aim is to promote the balance and proportions of the tree, acting immediately, in the initial phase of the bonsai life cycle. PUSH maintenance pruning, instead, it is performed constantly and on several occasions throughout the year.
To carry out a maintenance cut means to proceed with the elimination of new shoots and unwanted leaves in order to preserve the harmonious appearance of the plant and to preserve the desired shape of the olive bonsai.
Another key aspect to consider in getting the right olive bonsai structure is branching. Indeed, stimulating branching allows to have a tree always renewed. We start by pruning the branches located inside the bonsai and those that have grown too much to encourage the development of new shoots and achieve excellent results in the development of the plant.
For better shaping of the plant, it is possible to attach a wire branches younger and more flexible so you can direct them however you want. Even consequences already formed can be shaped with special connecting rods, but it is important to avoid damaging them bark.
The right location for olive bonsai
In terms of placement, the olive bonsai needs to be kept year-round outdoors. However, care must be taken seasonal changes and during temperature changes.
Olive bonsai prefers one sunny position: It is advisable to take care to place the bonsai in a place where it can receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. However, during periods of great heat, it is better to protect the olive bonsai from high temperatures so that the leaves do not shrink.
During the winter, especially in areas characterized by cold winters, it is important to protect the bonsai olive tree from frost and strong winds: it is best to move the olive tree to a sheltered place or protect it with a cloth.