Styles / Pruning / Training: Usually potted in a group or forest planting. Roots are delicate but can be pruned heavily. The foliage can also be pruned heavily. Aralia branches grow upward and quickly become bushy. Trim often to maintain a clean tree shape. As new growth appears, pinching it back encourages branching. The soft flesh of the branches makes it difficult to wire therefore it is best to use the clip and grow method.
Light / Water Requirements: Grows well in full sun as well as full shade. Acclimate the tree from one location to another. Do not over-water, allow the surface to dry between watering.
Propagation: Aralia will put out suckers frequently and these suckers can be separated and grown as a new plant. The Aralia will also root from cuttings and air-layering if the weather is warm.Repotting Special Instructions: Repot only when minimum night temperatures are in the high 60's. Repotting can be done anytime throughout the summer. Be gentle with the roots, they are very delicate. The aralia does not have a very extensive root system so they can be potted in smaller pots but be careful when they are tall they can be knocked over easily if not weighted down well. Insects and Diseases: Pests are rare if grown outside in morning sun. If used as an indoor bonsai, watch for mites and scale. Aphids are occasionally found on new growth. Temperature Requirements: Protect below 40 degrees F. A humidity tray is recommended for indoor Aralia bonsai.
General Information: Some people refer to the aralia as semi-deciduous because they will defoliate themselves somewhat. This will sometimes scare their owners because the plant appears to be ill. Green foliage will begin to wither and die for no apparent reason. The process seems to be totally up to the tree itself. Some will do this once a year, some every 2 or 3 years. If you notice the tree is not as healthy looking as it once was you should always check for signs of pest first, double think your watering and sunlight choices and make sure you are using the correct fertilizer at the correct quantities. If you are doing everything right... just keep taking the same care you always did, decrease water slightly if your plant has lost a lot of foliage (less leaves, less water use), keep it warm and soon things will be back to normal.
Don't forget there are several reasons why a plant may suddenly lose foliage. Moving the plant from one location to another, incorrect water practices, too little or too much sunlight, compact soil (lack of oxygen), fertilizer too strong (root burn), pests, disease, incorrect temperatures, drafts, vents blowing on them, etc.. etc.. etc... investigate at the first sign of a problem and review any changes you may have recently made.
Aralia Care Is Easy And They Make Great Bonsai And Houseplants!
Share This Page With A Friend
|
