Bonsai tasks to do in Cape Town in June
June can be a busy period for bonsai enthusiasts, and there are several time-sensitive activities to focus on during this month. Here’s a breakdown of the tasks mentioned:
• Clean and disinfect your bonsai benches to maintain a healthy environment for your trees.
• Remove dead leaves: Clear out any dead leaves from pots and the area under benches. Dead leaves can attract pests, so it’s important to remove them to prevent re-infestation of Summer pests.
• Check drainage: Ensure that the drainage holes in your bonsai pots are clear and functioning properly. If there are any issues, you can angle the pot on a wooden block to improve drainage, making sure it is secure. Address any pot drainage problems in the spring.
• Spray Lime Sulphur: Some bonsai enthusiasts use Lime Sulphur to control pests and diseases. You can spray Lime Sulphur twice, at a 10 day interval, using a mixture of 35ml per 1 litre. We don’t spray evergreens as we don’t like the awful colouring it tends to leave on the trees, you can use alternative options like Rosecare, Seizer + Eco Oil, Koinor, or Plant Care.
• Black algae: If you notice black algae on the soil surface, Virikop can be used which contains Copper Oxychloride. This is effective in treating it without harming the moss.
• Moss on certain tree trunks: Be cautious about allowing moss to grow near acacia, pine, or cork bark elm trunks, as it may interfere with their health or aesthetic appeal.
• Care for multi-flush pines: For multi-flush pines, it’s time to shoot select and needle pluck. Additionally, begin a feeding program to build up their strength before candle pruning, which typically occurs in December. Keep an eye out for adelgids and mites and use appropriate treatments if necessary.
• Reassess deciduous bonsai design: This is a good time to evaluate the design of your deciduous bonsai trees. Transition your branches from thick to thin to give you better taper and remove any unnecessary growth. Wire carefully to shape the branches as desired.
• Deadhead azaleas: Once the flowers on your azaleas have died, remove them by deadheading. This helps redirect the tree’s energy and encourages new growth.
• Check watering: Bonsai trees are sensitive to both drought and overwatering. Ensure you are providing the appropriate amount of water based on the specific needs of each tree. Monitor soil moisture levels regularly.
• Prepare for potting: Start gathering the materials you will need for potting, including suitable pots and soil mixtures. Prepare the soil mixture in advance, ensuring it meets the specific requirements of your bonsai species.
By following these guidelines and attending to these tasks, you can maintain the health and well-being of your bonsai trees during this busy time in June.