Hawthorn

Species

Fertilizing

Fortnightly with either high nitrogen to promote strong growth or high phosphorus and potassium fertiliser to promote flowering and fruiting. In late summer use a low nitrogen feed to harden growth for the coming winter.

Placement

Full sun or semi-shade. Very resistant to strong winds and require a position with good air-circulation to help resist fungal diseases such as mildew. Though fully hardy when grown in the ground, Hawthorn bonsai require some frost protection from temperatures below -10°C.

Pruning

Hard prune in late winter or early Spring, small wounds can take a long time to completely heal over, larger wounds, over 3cm in width, are unlikely to completely heal. Pinch out new growth in Spring and through the growing season.

Repotting

Annually in Spring as leaf buds extend in a basic soil mix.