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If there is a species that has practically always been linked to bonsai, that is the Ginkgo biloba. Although it is not exactly the easiest tree to work with or the one that can be designed in several different ways, its history makes it very special.
And we are not only talking about a living fossil that has been on Earth for more than 300 million years, but also about a species more related to conifers than any other known tree. In fact, it belongs to the gymnosperm family, since it does not protect its seeds, like pines or yews for example. Because, having a Ginkgo bonsai is a unique experience.
What are the Ginkgo bonsai cares?
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- Image – Wikimedia/Sailko
Ginkgo bonsai is a plant that must be given a series of special care. Although it is resistant, we should not overdo it with irrigation or with the subscriber. And, although it is difficult for us to resist, we must not keep it inside the house, as it would not last us more than a few days. But let’s see in detail everything there is to know about him:
Location
He Ginkgo biloba it is a deciduous tree that has to be outside the homeregardless of whether it is allowed to grow freely or whether it is worked as bonsai. Inside, it is impossible to feel the passing of the seasons, as the temperatures remain almost unchanged. In addition, it needs to be in a sunny area, although it can adapt to semi-shade without problems.
Substratum
Akadama is used alone (get it here!), or mixed with 20% kiryuzuna (on sale here!) or small-grained volcanic gravel. In this way, it is achieved that the roots are well oxygenated, since the gas (oxygen) can circulate without difficulty between the pores of these substrates.
In addition, it is a way to reduce the risk of root rot, since akadama turns darker when wet, and much lighter when dry.
Irrigation
Once akadama is known to change color when watered and when it dries, it is easy to control watering. A) Yes, you will see that in summer you will have to water very oftenpractically daily or every other day if the temperatures in your area are very high and it does not rain, and that in winter instead you will have to space them.
Use a specific watering can for bonsai, as in this way it will fall with the power and speed necessary for the substrate to stay in place, and no piles or holes are made. Like this for example:
Another option is to take a plastic bottle and poke a few holes in the cap.
Subscriber
He Ginkgo biloba it sprouts in spring and becomes leafless again in the fall or winter depending on the weather conditions in the area. During all these months it will be highly advisable to keep it properly subscribedso we will use fertilizers for bonsai (like this one that they sell here!) following the instructions for use.
Pruning and pinching
To our bonsai, if necessary, it will be pruned in late winter. At that time you have to remove the dry, broken and diseased branches.
As for the pinching, it is advisable to reduce the length of those that are growing much more than desired, leaving the style that we have given. It will be done by growing 6-8 leaves and cutting two or four.
Wiring
It is not usually wired. If it is done, it is advisable that it be in early spring. In addition, it is necessary to ensure that there is the same distance between turns. Check the wire once a week, otherwise there could be marks.
In autumn you will have to remove it.
Transplant
It is a very slow growing tree. For this reason, transplanted every 2 or even 3 years. Everything will depend on whether it has rooted completely well, something that we will know if roots are seen through the holes in the pot, or if not.
Multiplication
Multiply by seeds in winter. But for a plant to give seeds, there must be two specimens: one female and one male, so that the pollen from one flower passes to the other, fertilizing it. Once you get them, you have to sow them in pots and leave them out in the open. They will germinate throughout the spring.
Another option is by cuttingscutting branches from the previous year and impregnating the base with rooting hormones. The substrate must have good drainage, since they rot easily; so it’s a good idea to use akadama.
Rusticity
The ginkgo bonsai is able to withstand practically the same temperatures as the tree. This means that resists moderate frostsup to -18ºC.
Where to buy?
If you would like to buy a Ginkgo bonsai, we recommend visiting a nursery or buying it online. Another option is to get seeds online, from here:
