Japanese Black Pine image

Japanese Black Pine

One of, if not the most, iconic Bonsai species. A slow grower with many unique needs, and nearly overwhelming amounts of information online.

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Environment

Spring
Summer
Fall
Winter
Frost Protection
  • 1st 2nd 3rd+

    Protect the root system from sustained freezing temperatures. Move trees into an unheated garage, shed, or cold frame.

Potting

Spring
Repotting
  • 1st 2nd 3rd+

    Repot right as the buds begin to swell but before leaves unfurl. Comb out old soil and trim back circling roots.

Summer
Fall
Winter

Pruning

Spring
Summer
Decandling
  • 2nd 3rd+

    Decandling is a pruning technique that leaves the new growth of needles (called candles) until they begin to split, then removing some amount of them. By default, leave about 1/3 of the candle behind. For young trees focused on growth, decandling should not be done, as it halts elongation and thickening.

Fall
Winter

Watering

General Watering
  • 1st 2nd 3rd+

    Standard baseline rule: Water thoroughly when the topsoil looks slightly dry. Never let the rootball dry out completely.

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