Page 107 - Tài liệu Ebook cây cảnh Bonsai Basics

BONSAI CALENDAR 109

MID-AUTUMN

Mid-autumn is marked by a gradual
slowing down and eventual cessation of
growth, the maturing of fruits and the
falling of the leaves.
This is the time when deciduous trees
look their best, maple trees taking on
magnificent flame red leaf tints.
This gradual ceasing of activity makes
it possible to collect and repot plants,
particularly deciduous trees, conifers be-
ing best transplanted in spring.
Fertilizers can be applied throughout
the mid-autumn period.
Also continue tidying up conifers by
removing the old needles. About half
way through this period, the first night
frosts can be expected, so it is time to
start protecting the most tender plants.
Do this either by bringing them into a
cool, well ventilated room or by covering
them at night. Deciduous trees arc starting to take on their
Watering will depend on the weather, magnificent autumn tints. Sweep away any leaves
that fall on the root ball.
as the warm autumn sun can still dry out
the root ball. Avoid spraying the foliage,
as this is no longer useful and could even
be harmful, as it tends to encourage
fungal diseases.
Fruit trees (particularly apple trees)
are at the peak of fruiting, enhancing the
autumn foliage tints. Towards the end of
this period, the ripe fruits will start to
fall. They should not be left on top of the
root ball, as they could give rise to fungal
diseases as they decompose. For the
same reason, dead leaves that fall from
the trees should be swept away. Though
it is too late to graft decid uo us trees, it is
still possible to graft conifers throughout
the dormant period. Gradually reduce
watering of the cuttings kept in a green-
house or a cold frame and pot up those
which are well rooted.
Start stratifying any tree seeds with
hard shells. Spread them in pots of damp
sand in a cold place, at the foot of a wall
Fruit trees are ... fruiting! It is remarkable that the
for instance. Wherever you place them, tiny fruits (here crah apples) are in scale with the
make sure there is no risk of frost. bonsai - a miracle of nature!