Jooni
Wattle
1 Species
Species
Fertilizing
During the growing season, apply solid organic fertilizer monthly or liquid fertilizer every two weeks for optimal growth. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers as they can cause long internodes, which isn't ideal for bonsai aesthetics. The Acacia's root system contains special nodule bacteria that help efficiently absorb nitrogen, making it less dependent on nitrogen-rich fertilizers. For trees kept in cooler winter conditions (around 12°C/53°F) where growth slows, reduce fertilizing to once monthly with liquid fertilizer to maintain health without promoting excessive growth.
Placement
Wattle bonsai requires warm, sunny, and well-ventilated conditions during the growing season, with indoor temperatures between 12-20°C (53-68°F). While they thrive in full sun, protect small potted specimens from intense afternoon sun in hot climates to prevent stress. As tropical/subtropical plants native to Africa and Australia, they are not frost-tolerant and must be kept indoors or in a heated greenhouse during cold winters. Adequate light and humidity are essential - if these can't be maintained at warmer temperatures, keep the tree slightly cooler.
Pruning
This fast-growing species demands regular maintenance to develop proper bonsai form. In spring and summer, trim new shoots back to one or two leaves to encourage dense growth and maintain the desired shape. Save heavy structural pruning for winter, being sure to leave stubs to prevent die-back - these can be removed once fully dried. Defoliation can be performed in late spring to reduce leaf size and promote back-budding. For wiring, wait until after defoliation when leaves are off. While older branches tend to be brittle, younger twigs are quite flexible. Use aluminum wire and protect the bark from damage, considering guy wires as an alternative for older branches.
Repotting
Repot your wattle bonsai every 2-3 years for younger trees and every 3-4 years for mature specimens, always performing this task in early spring. When repotting, use a well-draining soil mix with sufficient humus content and a neutral to slightly acidic pH (5-6). Take special care not to remove or damage the root nodules during root pruning, as these are crucial for nitrogen absorption. The root mass should not be cut back too aggressively to maintain the tree's health and vigor. Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage to prevent root rot issues.
Watering
Consistent moisture is critical for wattle bonsai, requiring a careful balance to keep the rootball moist without becoming waterlogged. Never allow the soil to dry out completely, but avoid overwatering which can lead to root rot. When possible, use non-calcareous water as these trees prefer slightly acidic conditions. During periods of strong growth, you may need to water more frequently, while reducing watering frequency during cooler periods when growth slows. Maintain good humidity around the tree, especially after repotting or during hot weather.