Jooni
Quince
4 Species
Species
Fertilizing
Feed your Chinese Quince Bonsai with a balanced, water-soluble organic fertilizer during the growing season (spring through early autumn). Apply fertilizer every four weeks with solid organic fertilizer or use liquid fertilizer weekly. Choose a balanced formula containing adequate phosphorous and potassium, as phosphorous supports root development and flowering while potassium improves overall plant health. In late winter, supplement with liquid potassium. Reduce or suspend fertilization during dormant winter months to avoid excessive vegetative growth at the expense of flowering.
Placement
Position your Chinese Quince Bonsai in a sunny location with good airflow and protection from strong winds. The tree requires direct sunlight, preferably 6-8 hours daily, to promote healthy growth, flowering, and fruit development. Place it facing south or west in a warm spot where temperatures remain between 50°F to 75°F (10°C to 24°C). While it can tolerate some frost and lower temperatures during winter dormancy, protect it from extreme cold. During intense summer heat, provide some afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch.
Pruning
Avoid trimming new shoots until after flowering to allow the tree to fully bloom. Once bloomed, trim new shoots back to two leaves when they have elongated to maintain shape and encourage new growth. Remove dead, damaged, and overcrowded branches after the last frost. Since fruits grow on old branches, be cautious when pruning branch tips. Stop major pruning after mid-summer to avoid compromising next year's flowering. For wiring, autumn is ideal when leaves have fallen, though young shoots can be wired in summer. Use flexible wire and protect the bark, checking regularly to prevent wire scarring.
Repotting
Repot your Chinese Quince Bonsai every two years for young trees and every three to five years for mature specimens. The best time for repotting is early spring before new growth begins, avoiding winter or summer months. Use a well-draining soil mix that combines organic bonsai soil, perlite, and coarse sand or grit. The soil should be slightly acidic though the tree can tolerate some alkalinity. When repotting, gently trim damaged or excessively long roots to maintain a healthy root structure and encourage new growth.
Watering
Keep the rootball consistently moist but never waterlogged, especially during the summer months when the tree is blooming and producing fruits. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, adjusting frequency based on climate and seasonal conditions. An effective technique is submerging the entire pot in water until no more air bubbles rise, ensuring thorough hydration. However, don't leave the bonsai submerged for too long to prevent waterlogging. The tree isn't drought-tolerant, so monitor soil moisture regularly, particularly during dry spells. Reduce watering during winter when the tree enters dormancy.