Jooni
Chinese Yew
1 Species
Species
Fertilizing
Young, faster-growing Podocarpus should be fertilized in spring with mineral fertilizer, switching to organic fertilizer (like Biogold or Hanagokoro) every 4-6 weeks until September. Older trees require less fertilization. For liquid fertilizers, you can double the recommended dosage during the growing season. Regular fertilization from March to August is essential for healthy growth and development.
Placement
Place the Podocarpus outdoors in bright light from spring through autumn until temperatures approach freezing. When moving outdoors in spring, gradually acclimate to prevent sunburn by keeping it in partial shade for 2 weeks before full sun exposure. For winter, bring indoors when temperatures reach 40°F (4°C). Indoors, provide bright light in a south-facing window, with east/west-facing windows as second best options. Maintain temperatures between 50-60°F (10-15°C) during winter months.
Pruning
Prune established bonsai frequently with sharp scissors to achieve finer branching, with new shoots appearing within 4 weeks. For young trees focused on growth, allow lower branches to grow longer (10-20cm) before cutting back. Avoid growing large sacrifice branches as the resulting scars heal poorly. Always apply wound sealant after pruning for better healing. During the growing season, maintain the tree's shape through regular trimming.
Repotting
Repot young Podocarpus every 2-3 years in early spring, allowing moderate root pruning. Older specimens can go 4-5 years between repottings depending on root growth. Use well-draining bonsai soil with Akadama as the primary component. When repotting trees purchased in dense clay soil, gently transition to proper bonsai soil in the following spring. Ensure proper drainage by using mesh screens over drainage holes and a thin layer of gravel at the bottom of the pot.
Watering
Maintain consistently moist but not wet soil, allowing slight drying between waterings. Water needs vary by environment - indoor trees may need watering every 1-2 days in summer but only weekly in winter. Using a humidity tray filled with water and pebbles helps maintain moisture, especially important for indoor trees during heating season. Ball showers or root ball dipping are effective watering methods, though a saucer is recommended to catch drainage.