Raising jade bonsai is a task that requires patience and care, in which watering is a crucial link in the maintenance process. Many enthusiasts are confused about how to control the frequency of watering, worrying that too much or too little watering will affect the growth of bonsai. So, how often to water jade bonsai? This article will combine a number of factors to provide you with a scientific watering guide.
Understand The Growing Environment Of Jade Bonsai
To determine the frequency of watering, you first need to understand the growing environment and species of jade bonsai. Different jade plants have different water needs, so the frequency of watering cannot be generalized. At the same time, the growth environment such as temperature, humidity, light, etc., will also affect the water requirements of jade bonsai.
1. Type Difference
Different kinds of jade plants have different water requirements. For example, some jade plants prefer wet conditions, while others prefer dry conditions. Therefore, in the maintenance process, the watering frequency needs to be adjusted according to the specific type.
2. Growing Environment
The growth environment has great influence on the water requirement of jade bonsai. If the jade bonsai is grown in a high temperature, high humidity environment, the water evaporates quickly, so it needs to be watered more frequently. On the contrary, in low temperature, low humidity environment, water evaporation is slow, watering frequency can be reduced accordingly.
Observe The Soil Moisture
The key to determining watering frequency is to observe soil moisture. Jade bonsai likes to keep the soil in a moist state, but over-watering can cause root rot. Therefore, before watering, you need to check the soil moisture and ensure that the soil surface starts to dry before watering.
1. Check The Soil Surface
You can feel the dryness of the soil by gently touching the surface of the soil with your fingers. If the surface of the soil is already dry, you can water it. If the soil is still wet, there is no need to water it for the time being.
2. Use A Hygrometer
To get a more accurate picture of soil moisture, use a hygrometer. A hygrometer measures the water content of the soil, which helps determine if watering is needed.
Season And Watering Frequency
Seasonal variation has great influence on the water requirement of jade bonsai. In different seasons, it is necessary to adjust the watering frequency according to the climatic conditions and the growth state of jade bonsai.
1. Spring
Spring is the growth season of jade bonsai, the temperature rises gradually, and the water evaporation accelerates. Therefore, it is necessary to increase the watering frequency appropriately in the spring. In general, water can be poured every 3-5 days, but the specific needs to be adjusted according to soil moisture and plant growth.
2. Summer
In summer, the temperature is high and the water evaporates very quickly. In the summer, jade bonsai needs more water to maintain its growth. Therefore, watering frequency needs to be increased accordingly. Water can usually be watered once a day in the morning, and if the soil is dry in the evening, it can also be replenished moderately. However, it should be noted that avoid watering at noon when the sun is strong, so as not to evaporate the water too quickly or cause leaf burns.
3. Fall
The temperature gradually decreases in autumn, and the rate of water evaporation slows down. In autumn, the growth rate of jade bonsai will gradually slow down. Therefore, watering frequency needs to be reduced accordingly. Water can be poured every 5-7 days, but the specific needs to be adjusted according to soil moisture and plant growth.
4. Winter
In winter, the temperature is low, and the growth of jade bonsai almost stops. At this point, watering frequency needs to be drastically reduced to avoid root rot. You can choose to water it at noon on a sunny day, and water it every 10 days or so. However, it should be noted that the water temperature should be close to room temperature or slightly warm, avoid using too cold water to water, so as not to harm the roots of the jade.
Watering Skills And Precautions
In addition to determining the frequency of watering, it is also necessary to master the correct watering skills and precautions to ensure the healthy growth of jade bonsai.
1. Watering Method
When watering, make sure that the water can penetrate deep into the soil to promote the root growth of the jade bonsai. The following methods can be used:
Slow watering: Pour the water into the pot slowly, allowing the water to penetrate deep into the soil.
Dip pot method: Place the pot in a container of water and let the water penetrate from the bottom of the pot into the soil. This method ensures that the soil is evenly moist.
2. Avoid Standing Water
Water accumulation is one of the main causes of root rot of jade bonsai. Therefore, after watering, make sure that the excess water can flow out of the pot. The following methods can be taken:
Pot floor height: Put the bottom of the pot high enough so that excess water can flow out smoothly.
Use soil with good water permeability: Choosing soil with good water permeability for planting jade bonsai can reduce the risk of water accumulation.
Check drainage holes: Make sure there are drainage holes in the bottom of the pot and that the drainage holes are not blocked.
3. Control Your Watering
The amount of water should be moderate and avoid over-watering. Excessive watering will cause the soil to be too wet, which will affect the growth of jade bonsai. In general, each watering should moisten the soil to avoid excessive accumulation of water in the soil.
4. Pay attention to water distribution
When watering, try to pour water directly into the pot to avoid wetting the leaves and stems of the jade bonsai. Excessive wetting of leaves and stems can easily lead to diseases. If there is dust or dirt on the leaves, you can use a sprayer to gently spray some water for cleaning.
5. Use the right water source
Use a suitable water source when watering. Tap water or filtered water is a good choice, and avoid using water with high levels of chemicals and salt. These water sources may have adverse effects on the growth of jade bonsai.
Other Maintenance Suggestions
In addition to correct watering, it is also necessary to pay attention to other aspects of maintenance work to ensure the healthy growth of jade bonsai.
1. Fertilize
During the growing season (spring to summer), you can apply a diluted succulent fertilizer to the jade bonsai every 2-4 weeks. Fertilization can provide the necessary nutrients to promote the growth of jade bonsai. However, it should be noted that the amount of fertilizer should not be too much, so as not to cause excess nutrients or burn the roots.
2. Trim
Regular pruning can promote the growth of jade bonsai and its beautiful shape. You can trim off too long branches, dead leaves and diseased leaves, etc., to keep bonsai clean and healthy.
3. Pest control
Jade bonsai may also be attacked by pests and diseases. Common pests and diseases are aphids, red spiders, powdery mildew and so on. Once a pest is found, it is necessary to take timely measures to control it. Insecticides, fungicides and other drugs can be used to spray, and physical methods can also be taken for prevention and control, such as wiping the leaves with a wet cloth.
4. Ventilation and light
Good ventilation and light conditions are very important for the growth of jade bonsai. Windows can be opened regularly to ventilate and maintain indoor air circulation. At the same time, place the jade bonsai in a place with sufficient sunlight, but avoid long-term exposure to strong sunlight.
conclusion
The watering frequency of jade bonsai is a problem that needs to be considered comprehensively according to many factors. By understanding the growing environment of jade bonsai, observing soil moisture, mastering the influence of seasonal changes on water demand and mastering correct watering skills and precautions, we can provide suitable water conditions for jade bonsai and promote its healthy growth. At the same time, other aspects of conservation work need to be paid attention to, such as fertilization, pruning, pest control, ventilation and light. Only by considering multiple factors comprehensively, can we ensure that jade bonsai can get full attention and care in the maintenance process.
Related topics:
- The Challenges of Growing a Bonsai Tree
- Best Fertilizer for Jade Bonsai
- How to Care for Jade Bonsai?
