Black Pine Bonsai

Considered to be an epitome of bonsai (tray planting), Japanese black pine is a classic tree to train for bonsai as it responds well to a number of techniques employed while growing and yields excellent growth attributes. Black pine tree, belonging to the family Pinaceae, grows up to a height of 25 feet and a width of 20 to 35 feet. It has develop long, leggy branches, having exceptionally dark green, five to seven inch long twisted foliage and needles, borne in groups of two.

Black Pine Bonsai Tree

Soil Fertility
A well drained soil, comprising equal concentrations of pumice and akadama works best for black pine bonsai tree. The soil should be evenly moist, without being too damp in order to avoid the risk of root rotting. For a healthy yield, the soil for black pine should have a pH level somewhere between 5.5 and 6.5.

Sunlight Needed
Black pines enjoy being in sun all day long and can tolerate temperatures of up to 100º F. However, in summers when kept in full sun, its foliage color may turn greenish yellow whereas when kept under partial shade or shade cloth, the color may become deep green. In summers, the heat can bake the tree roots, especially if the pot gets too hot. Hence, to prevent this cover the pot to block the sun heat and maintain the temperature so that it can endure the heat.

Watering Requirement
The black pine should be evenly moist, hence water it thoroughly two to three times a day to fully saturate the soil. Though it can endure a bit of drought, for best results ensure that the water is of a pH level between 5.5 and 6.5 and the soil gets properly wet.

Pruning Method
Unlike other deciduous trees, which during springtime need fertilizers, black pine requires proper pruning. The best time for pruning is during late fall or early winter as it helps to stop sap bleeding. Moreover, after cutting the branch, use a sharp knife with a putty cut paste throughout the edges of the wound. Once pruned, keep the tree in shade for three to four weeks and avoid placing it in locations where there are extreme temperatures.

Wiring Procedure
The best period to wire the black pine is late winter, as if wired during its growing season wherein the cambium is loaded with the sap and literally floating over the xylem, it can damage the plant. You can wire its long branches in different shapes but avoid wiring a weak or stressed black pine as it will be unable to live through the inevitable damage of wiring.

Fertilizing the Bonsai
The most problematic pest for black pine is the red spider mite which normally attacks trees that are weak or stressed especially in late spring and summer. Hence, make sure you check for these pests on a regular basis and observe the tree well for signs of weakness. A pine infested with spider mites develops red specks on its needle which can be noticed upon close inspection. Besides this, aphids and mealy bugs are two other common pests that can infest the tree. Though they can be easily controlled by common pesticides, try using organics like Hollytone or Bio Gold, from March to September, along with additional supplement of vitamins and chelated iron to get rid of them.

Repotting the Bonsai
The black pine can be repotted from December to March, in fact the younger trees can be repotted every year while older trees after every 3 to 5 years. Moreover, studies show repotting every year helps spurring the tree for better growth and maintaining tabs on the root zone. However, since the root structure will reflect the branch structure with large roots emerging under large branches, avoid excess of root removal while repotting.

Growing black pine bonsai for sale is a demanding act, as its growth characteristics need ongoing, regular and careful maintenance in order to stay in bonsai trim. However, being so hardy and versatile, Japanese black pine bonsai forms the most appropriate choice for any novice or advanced bonsai enthusiast.