Jooni
Larch
5 Species
Species
Fertilizing
Due to their fast-growing nature, larches require substantial fertilization, especially during the growth phase. Apply organic fertilizer pellets like Biogold or Hanagokoro every 4 weeks during the growing season (spring to early September). For liquid fertilizers, you can double the recommended application rate during the growth period since their nitrogen content tends to be lower. In early spring when buds first appear, use a high-nitrogen fertilizer approximately 4 times per month to support the initial growth flush. Switch to a more balanced, low-nitrogen feed in mid-summer when growth slows to help the tree store nutrients for winter.
Placement
Larch bonsai must be grown outdoors in full sun, though they may need some light shade in very hot areas. As they naturally grow in alpine and temperate regions, they require cold winters for proper dormancy. While larches tolerate winter well and generally don't need protection, you may want to provide shelter if: temperatures get extremely cold, the tree has health issues, it's highly refined, or planted in a very small container. Protection can include placing the tree on the ground, mulching, using a wind shelter, or moving to an unheated greenhouse. Never try to grow larch bonsai indoors as they will slowly lose strength and die.
Pruning
The first major pruning should be done in early spring before growth starts - this is the prime time to establish the tree's structure and shape. For maintenance pruning through the growing season, allow new shoots to extend to about 4 inches before cutting back. After the initial spring pruning, you'll get 2-3 more growth flushes during the season, with each subsequent flush becoming finer with closer-set buds. When pruning new growth, look for pairs of buds within half an inch of the growth point to cut back to. Avoid pruning after leaf drop in autumn as this increases the risk of branch die-back over winter. Always reduce areas where 3-4 buds originate to just 2 buds to prevent inverse taper.
Repotting
Repot larch bonsai every 3-5 years in late winter or early spring, ideally just as the buds begin turning green. Since larches have strong root growth, younger trees (1-3 years) need more frequent repotting than mature specimens. Use akadama or lava rock-based soil that provides excellent drainage while retaining enough moisture. When repotting, it's crucial to leave some roots untouched to preserve the mycorrhizal relationship that helps with nutrient uptake. Protect newly repotted trees from wind and rain, and allow the soil to dry significantly between waterings to encourage new root growth.
Watering
Water your larch bonsai when the top half-inch of soil begins to dry out, being careful not to overwater. Due to their thin needle cuticles, larches have high water mobility compared to other conifers and may need watering twice daily in peak summer, especially when placed in full sun. While larches naturally tolerate wet conditions, avoid waterlogged soil in containers. Reduce watering significantly in winter but never allow the roots to completely dry out. Check trees regularly rather than watering on a fixed schedule, as needs will vary with weather conditions and season.