Jacaranda

Fertilizing

During the growing season (spring through fall), feed your Jacaranda bonsai weekly with a balanced liquid fertilizer to support its rapid growth and vibrant flowering. In winter, reduce fertilizing frequency to once every two weeks. Take care not to over-fertilize as this can damage the tree. Using a well-balanced organic bonsai fertilizer will help maintain optimal health while promoting the development of those striking purple-blue flowers.

Placement

As a tropical species, Jacaranda bonsai requires abundant light and warm temperatures above 15°C (59°F). Keep the tree outdoors in a bright location during spring and summer, where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. However, protect the delicate foliage from scorching in extreme heat using shade cloth. During autumn and winter, bring the tree indoors and place it in a sunny window away from heating devices and air conditioners that can damage the leaves. The tree may naturally drop its leaves in winter but will regrow them in spring.

Pruning

Pruning is essential for both aesthetics and health. Focus on developing one strong central trunk as the main leader. Remove damaged, dead, or diseased branches during regular maintenance pruning throughout the year. The largest leaves can be trimmed off to maintain proportions, and new shoots should be shortened to two leaf pairs once they develop 4-5 pairs. For shaping, use aluminum or copper wire for no longer than 3 months to avoid scarring the bark. It's best to style Jacaranda bonsai in simple forms like formal upright or broom styles that complement its naturally elegant character.

Repotting

Young Jacaranda bonsai should be repotted every 2 years, while mature specimens can go 3-5 years between repotting. The best time for repotting is early spring before the growing season begins. Use a well-draining bonsai soil mix with a slightly acidic pH and add a layer of gravel at the base for drainage. The container should have plenty of drainage holes and be about two-thirds the height of the tree. When repotting, carefully prune about one-third of the root mass without damaging the root ball. After repotting, keep the tree in a warm, shaded area and maintain consistent moisture until it recovers.

Watering

Finding the right watering balance is crucial for Jacaranda bonsai. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. If the root ball dries out, the leaves will shrink, brown and fall off. Conversely, overwatering can lead to root rot and yellowing leaves. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring excess water drains freely. The tree will require more frequent watering during warmer seasons. Consider using a humidity tray and misting the foliage daily with distilled water to maintain the higher humidity levels this tropical species prefers.

References

Miyagi Bonsai Care Guide Green Zen Bonsai Guide Florgeous Jacaranda Care Guide