Page 74 - Tài liệu Ebook cây cảnh Bonsai Basics

76 CARING FOR YOUR BONSAI

of the larger trees in place unassisted.
Avoid using any kind of stake. Instead
try keeping the tree's root ball in place
with metal wire passed over the base and
through the drainage holes. This is an
efficient, invisible method. Do remem-
ber to remove the wire once the tree has
taken root. The tray should be about
three-quarters filled with compost, with
a layer of very finely sifted soil to finish
off the surface. Firm it down with the
spatula at the other end of the bonsai
rake or use tweezers. One can also cover
the soil with a layer of moss which is
decorative and serves to keep the soil
20. The tree to be repotted should be placed more-
or-less centrally in the tray - or so that it looks ' rnoist after each watering.
balanced and right. Watering should be done slowly, con-
tinuing until excess water runs out of the
drainage holes. This job can take a long
time, since the compost used for
repotting should have been very dry. To
prevent moisture evaporating too
quickly, put the bonsai where it is shel-
tered from wind and sun for several
weeks. It should start to flourish in no
time, overcoming the shock of being
repotted. Never forget that reporting is
always traumatic for the plant and act
accordingly. It is also imperative to
choose the right tray for transplanting
the tree. If you change your mind after
repotting is completed, it could do your
21. Fill in the space between the plant's root ball bonsai irreparable harm to subject it to a
and the tray with potting compost. second repotting after such a short time.

22. Pack soil between the root ball and the remain- 23. Firm down the soil with the special trowel. This
ing soil with a wooden stick or spatula end of the trowel should form part of your basic range of
bonsai rake so no air pockets are left. bonsai tools.