Guide to Dwarf Jade Bonsai | The Bonsai Supply

Summary

In this video, Jerome from Bonsai Supply shares expert care tips for the Dwarf Jade (Portulacaria afra), a hardy and fast-growing Bonsai tree. He covers topics such as the best time to repot, ideal watering and fertilizing routines, seasonal care, and common pests. The Dwarf Jade is highly adaptable, drought-tolerant, and can thrive indoors or outdoors in warm climates. Jerome emphasizes the importance of seasonal work, including trimming during the summer and using high-nitrogen fertilizer for healthy growth. He also discusses pest prevention with a monthly insecticide regimen to keep your tree healthy and vibrant.

Takeaways

• 😀 Dwarf Jade (Portulacaria afra) is a highly adaptable and easy-to-care-for Bonsai tree, perfect for enthusiasts of all levels.
• 😀 This tree is drought-tolerant, fast-growing, and can thrive both indoors and outdoors in warm climates.
• 😀 The best time for repotting is during the summer when the tree is actively growing and temperatures are consistently above 70°F at night.
• 😀 Always back off watering for 1–2 weeks before repotting to slow water movement, reducing the risk of rot during repotting.
• 😀 During the growing season, the tree should be watered every 3 days; less frequent watering is needed in colder months or when not actively growing.
• 😀 Fertilize the tree monthly with a high-nitrogen Bonsai fertilizer to promote healthy growth, using 3–4 times the recommended amount for optimal results.
• 😀 The dwarf jade responds well to trimming and pruning, and minor trimming can be done year-round to maintain shape and health.
• 😀 For insect prevention, a monthly regimen of insecticides is recommended, particularly during the growing season, to avoid infestations.
• 😀 The tree is susceptible to mealybugs, aphids, and root rot if overwatered or not placed in full sun.
• 😀 The key to successful care is ensuring the tree receives plenty of sunlight, as it helps with growth and prevents water-related issues.
• 😀 When repotting, handle the roots gently and use good-quality Bonsai soil, such as a mixture of lava rock, pumice, and pine bark, for best results.

Q & A

What is the Dwarf Jade Bonsai, and where is it originally from?

The Dwarf Jade, also known as Portulacaria afra or Elephant Bush, is a small succulent native to South Africa. It is commonly referred to as the 'elephant bush' or 'pork bush' in the U.S. and has reddish stems, green leaves, and occasional white or pink flowers.

Why is the Dwarf Jade considered an excellent Bonsai tree for beginners?

The Dwarf Jade is ideal for Bonsai enthusiasts of all skill levels due to its adaptability to various climates, drought tolerance, rapid growth, and ease of care. It can be grown indoors or outdoors and is very forgiving if neglected occasionally.

When is the best time to perform major care tasks like trimming or repotting a Dwarf Jade?

The best time to perform major care tasks, such as trimming, defoliating, and repotting, is during the summer when the tree is actively growing. Temperatures should ideally be above 70°F to ensure healthy recovery.

How should you care for a Dwarf Jade Bonsai during the rest of the year?

During the rest of the year, the care is minimal. You should prune the tree occasionally as it grows, let it grow out of shape for a few inches before trimming it back, and avoid repotting unless it's summer. Light maintenance and wiring are also necessary.

What are the key tips for repotting a Dwarf Jade?

When repotting a Dwarf Jade, ensure two consecutive weeks of temperatures above 70°F. It's important to back off watering for 1-2 weeks before repotting to reduce sap flow and avoid root or branch rot. Use good-quality Bonsai soil, and don't disturb the roots too much to prevent damage.

How often should you water a Dwarf Jade?

In the summer, water the Dwarf Jade every three days to support active growth. During cooler months or when not actively growing, water once a week or even less. In a greenhouse, the tree may not need watering at all in winter.

What type of fertilizer should be used for a Dwarf Jade Bonsai?

The Dwarf Jade responds well to high-nitrogen fertilizers, like an 18-4-10 formula. It's recommended to apply 3-4 times the amount specified on the fertilizer label for optimal growth. Fertilize once a month throughout the growing season, and continue during the winter if the tree is still growing.

What are the common pests and diseases that affect Dwarf Jade Bonsai?

The Dwarf Jade is relatively resistant to diseases, but it may encounter occasional pests such as mealybugs, aphids, and root rot, especially if overwatered or kept in poor conditions. Regular preventative care can help avoid these issues.

How can you prevent insect infestations in your Dwarf Jade Bonsai?

To prevent insect infestations, it's recommended to spray your Dwarf Jade with insecticides such as Tall Star and Elusive on a monthly basis, starting in early spring. Spraying should be done after sunset or before sunrise when insects are at home, and no bees or birds will be harmed.

What is the role of water movement in the Dwarf Jade's care during repotting?

Water movement is crucial during the Dwarf Jade's growing phase, as it actively moves water through its trunk. To avoid issues like root or branch rot during repotting, it's important to stop watering 1-2 weeks before repotting to reduce sap flow and water mobility in the tree.