Brush Cherry

Fertilizing

Apply fertilizer for acid-loving plants every two weeks during the growing season (March to September) using a liquid bonsai fertilizer. During winter months, reduce fertilizing to once monthly if kept in a warm, bright location. After repotting, pause fertilization for 3-4 weeks to allow new root growth. For liquid fertilizers, you can use double the recommended amount since they typically contain lower nitrogen levels.

Placement

Place the tree in warm, sunny locations with 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. In summer, provide some afternoon shade to prevent leaf burn. During winter, protect from frost by moving indoors or to a greenhouse, maintaining temperatures above freezing. Ideal cold wintering temperature is 5-10°C. When kept indoors, position near a bright window and maintain humidity using a humidity tray. Avoid placing above heating devices and protect from cold drafts.

Pruning

Regularly trim new shoots back to 2-3 leaf pairs once 6-8 pairs have grown to maintain shape. Avoid pruning from late April through flowering period to preserve flower buds. The tree responds well to aggressive pruning and will sprout readily from old wood, making it ideal for beginners. When wiring, use extreme caution as the bark is thin and sensitive - wire marks can remain visible for long periods. Late summer is the optimal time for wiring, after flowering is complete. Remove wire within 3-4 months by cutting rather than unwinding.

Repotting

Repot every 2-4 years in early March, with younger trees and those in smaller pots requiring more frequent repotting. Use a well-draining mix of 70% Akadama and 30% Kanuma soil to maintain the slightly acidic conditions this species prefers. When repotting, carefully remove old soil using a root hook and moderate root pruning as needed. Secure the root ball with wire through the pot's drainage holes before adding new soil. Avoid fertilizing for several weeks after repotting.

Watering

During active growth periods, water thoroughly when the soil surface begins to feel dry. This may mean daily or twice-daily watering in hot weather. In winter, reduce watering to 1-2 times weekly if kept cool, or 2-3 times weekly if kept warm indoors. Since the species prefers acidic conditions, use rainwater if tap water is hard. While somewhat drought tolerant, avoid keeping consistently dry or waterlogged. Maintain humidity by misting regularly, especially after repotting.

References

Bonsai Empire - Brush Cherry Care Guide Yorkshire Bonsai - Brush Cherry Care Guide Bonsai Shop - Brush Cherry Care