Flowering Red Azalea ('Hino Crimson' (Kurume)
$59.95 Features:15 years old, 12 - 13" tall.
The Azalea is a member of the genus Rhododendron. It is an
evergreen that flowers abundently in spring with deep red flowers that remain
on the tree for weeks.
How To Take Proper Care Of Your Bonsai Tree
Bonsai is the reproduction of natural tree forms in
miniature. This art form has its origin in Japan and China where it has been
practiced for centuries. Bonsai are grown in pots and are totally dependent on
you for their care.
With proper care, your bonsai will remain healthy, beautiful
and miniature for many years to come. Since your bonsai is a living miniature
tree, it will increase in beauty as it matures through the years. The
instructions below are just the basics and, therefore, we recommend that you
purchase one of the many fine books available on the subject.
PLACEMENT
The Flowering Red Azalea Bonsai is a living miniature tree
and not a house plant; therefore, your bonsai must be maintained in a cool/cold
environment during the winter season.
WATERING
The watering of your Bonsai must never be neglected. Apply
water when the soil appears dry -- never allow the soil to become completely
dry. If your Bonsai is receiving full sun, it may be necessary to water once a
day. This schedule may vary with the size pot, type of soil and type of Bonsai
tree you own. Evaluate each tree's water requirements and adjust your watering
schedule to accommodate it. It is a good idea to use a moisture meter until you
get to know the requirements of your Bonsai tree. Watering should be done with
a watering can or hose attachment which should dispense the water in a soft
enough manner as not to disturb the soil. Water should be applied until it
begins running out of the holes in the bottom of your pot. A good rain is usually
a sufficient watering.
HUMIDITY
During the cold months, when your bonsai is inside, we
recommend placing it in a shallow tray filled with a layer of gravel with water
added. This provides extra moisture around the tree as the water evaporates and
reduces the amount of moisture lost to modern heating systems.
FERTILIZING
Fertilizing is also necessary if your bonsai is to remain
healthy and beautiful. Since your bonsai is growing in such a small amount of
soil it is necessary to replenish the soil's supply of nutrients periodically.
Any general-purpose liquid fertilizer will do fine and is available at most
garden centers. We suggest that fertilizers be used at half their recommended
strength. Fertilizer should be applied at least once a month except during
winter. Your bonsai will also respond well to foliar feeding, with a
water-soluble fertilizer applied every other month as a spray.