Growing a Bonsai from a Cutting

Summary

This lecture focuses on the art of bonsai propagation through cuttings, which is often easier than starting from seeds. It covers selecting the right plant species and cuttings, with emphasis on broadleaf evergreens like Satsuki Azalea and boxwood. The process includes preparing the cutting, using hormones to encourage root growth, and proper aftercare. Timing is crucial, with different seasons recommended for hardwood and softwood cuttings. The lecture also discusses the use of misting systems and bottom heat to maintain moisture and promote root development, ensuring a higher success rate in creating healthy bonsai plants.

Takeaways

• 🌱 Creating bonsai from cuttings is generally easier than from seeds, though some species are more challenging, like pine.
• 🌿 Broadleaf evergreens, such as Satsuki Azalea, boxwood, and hollies, are particularly easy to grow from cuttings.
• ✂️ The time of year is crucial when taking cuttings—hardwood cuttings are usually taken in fall or winter, while juniper cuttings are taken during the growing season.
• 🧪 Hormones are important for promoting callus formation, which leads to root growth. Different types of hormones (powder, gel) can be used.
• 📏 Longer, thicker cuttings with more stored energy are more successful. Aim for around eight inches for the best results.
• 🌞 Lighting and misting are key to successful cuttings. Cuttings need light to encourage root growth and misting to maintain moisture.
• 🔥 Bottom heat can speed up root growth, especially for hardwood cuttings, by maintaining the right temperature for root development.
• 🪴 The depth and type of soil are important. Cuttings should be planted in deep pots (about three inches) to encourage strong roots.
• 💧 Using a misting system, or even misting by hand, helps keep the cuttings hydrated, especially during sunny, windy days.
• 🌳 After one or two years, the cuttings will grow stronger and can be separated. Wiring may be used to shape them, but care is needed to avoid damaging roots.

Q & A

What are the advantages of creating bonsai from cuttings compared to growing from seed?

Creating bonsai from cuttings is generally easier and faster than growing from seed. Some species are difficult to grow from cuttings, but others, such as broadleaf evergreens, are much easier.

Which species are considered easy and difficult to grow from cuttings?

Broadleaf evergreens like Satsuki Azalea, boxwood, and hollies are easy to grow from cuttings. However, it is difficult, if not impossible, to grow pine species from cuttings.

What is the best time of year to take hardwood cuttings?

Hardwood cuttings are usually taken in fall or winter, when they can form a callus. Roots typically begin to grow in the spring.

How does the use of rooting hormone benefit the cuttings?

Rooting hormone helps cuttings form a callus, from which roots can develop. The roots generally grow from the area above the cut end, not directly from the cut side.

What is the ideal length for a cutting when preparing it for bonsai propagation?

Cuttings should ideally be about eight inches long. Longer cuttings tend to have more stored energy and nutrition, improving their chances of rooting.

How should cuttings be placed in the soil for bonsai propagation?

Cuttings should be inserted about three inches deep into a deep pot, with good contact between the soil and the cutting. Using a chopstick to create the hole beforehand can help.

Why is it important to keep cuttings out of the wind but still in good light?

Cuttings need good light to promote root growth, but exposure to wind can dry them out quickly, which would hinder their ability to root.

What is the role of misting and bottom heat in bonsai propagation from cuttings?

Misting helps keep cuttings hydrated since they lack roots to absorb water. Bottom heat, especially for hardwood cuttings, can help speed up the callus and root formation process.

How do you know when bonsai cuttings have successfully rooted?

After a month or two, you can lightly tug on the cuttings. If they resist being pulled, they have likely formed roots. They should not be separated for at least a year, as the roots are fragile.

Why is it beneficial to wire bonsai cuttings early in the propagation process?

Wiring cuttings early, before they thicken, allows you to shape the trunk with gentle bends. If you wait too long, the trunk will become too rigid to manipulate easily without damaging the roots.