Premna Microphylla Bonsai Tree Care Guide
There are approximately 200 species of Premna in the genus in Africa, Southeast Asia, and northern Australia, which belong to a family called Lamiaceae (mints) and belong to the subtropical and tropical tree and shrub groups. The premna microphylla bonsai tree is a type of small tree or shrub that is commonly used in the art of bonsai. It is native to tropical regions of Asia and is known for its small, dark green leaves and delicate, lacy branches. When grown as a bonsai, the premna microphylla can be trained and shaped into various beautiful forms, making it a popular choice for bonsai enthusiasts.
I have a good number of premna, argao or alagao Taiwan in the garden that I have grown from cuttings myself. Trust me; they are very easy to grow!
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Check out my other blogs and bonsai journey with this amazing species:
Premna Microphylla Pruning Maintenance | Alagao Taiwan
How to Propagate Premna Microphyllia
Local Names and Popularity – Argao or Alagao Taiwan
In the Philippines, this popular bonsai material is locally known as Abgao, Argao or Alagao Taiwan. Filipinos know that this tree species originated from Taiwan and was imported to the country sometime in the 80s or 90s by bonsai growers from Luzon. It was not long before the Argao or Alagao Taiwan spread throughout the country as it can be mass propagated through cuttings. Today, this tree is very popular with many local bonsai growers as it is one of the easiest bonsai trees to culture. Although we have local premna known as Alagao Dagat or Premna Odorata, the majority of Filipino Bonsai growers still prefer Alagao Taiwan because of its leaf size and easy ramification.
Selecting a Premna Microphylla Bonsai Tree
When selecting a premna microphylla bonsai tree, there are a few important factors to consider. First, choose a healthy and free-of-pests or diseases tree. Look for a tree with strong, vibrant leaves and a sturdy trunk. Avoid trees with yellowing or wilting leaves, as these may be signs of poor health.
Next, consider the size of the tree and the space where it will be grown. Premna bonsai trees are small so they can be grown in various spaces, but you should choose a tree that is the right size for your space. A tree that is too large for the space it is grown in may not thrive, and a tree that is too small may not have enough room to grow and develop properly.
Finally, consider the style of bonsai you want to create. Premna microphylla bonsai trees can be trained and shaped into various styles, including formal upright, informal upright, and cascading. Choose a tree that has the potential to be trained into the style you desire.
Planting and Repotting
Preparing the bonsai pot and soil
Before planting a premna bonsai tree, preparing the bonsai pot and soil is important. First, choose a bonsai pot that is the right size for your tree. The pot should be large enough to allow for proper root growth but small enough to keep the tree in proportion. The pot should also have drainage holes to prevent the soil from becoming waterlogged.
Next, prepare the soil by mixing together high-quality bonsai soil and sand or grit. The soil should be well-draining and able to hold moisture but not so compact that it hinders root growth. Mix the ingredients together until they are well combined, and moisten the soil slightly before planting.
After the pot and soil are prepared, the tree can be planted. To plant the tree, carefully remove it from its current pot and loosen the roots gently. Place the tree in the center of the bonsai pot, and fill in around the roots with the prepared soil. Gently tamp down the soil to remove any air pockets, and water the tree well to help the soil settle. The tree should now be ready for regular care and maintenance.
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Planting the tree – potting and repotting
To plant a premna bonsai tree, follow these steps:
- Carefully remove the tree from its current pot, and loosen the roots gently. Place the tree in the center of the bonsai pot, and fill in around the roots with the prepared soil. Gently tamp down the soil to remove any air pockets.
- Water the tree well to help the soil settle. Be sure to water the tree thoroughly and allow the excess water to drain away. Avoid overwatering, which can cause the soil to become waterlogged and damage the tree’s roots.
- Place the tree in a location where it will receive the proper amount of light and warmth. Premna bonsai trees thrive in warm, humid environments, so be sure to provide plenty of indirect sunlight and a consistent temperature.
- After planting, the tree will need regular care and maintenance to ensure it grows and develops properly. This will include watering, fertilizing, pruning, shaping, and monitoring for pests and diseases. With proper care, your premna bonsai tree will thrive and bring beauty to your space.
As your premna bonsai tree grows, it may need to be repotted to allow for proper root growth and development. Generally, bonsai trees should be repotted every two to three years, depending on their age and size. By repotting your premna bonsai tree as needed, you can help ensure that it has the proper conditions to grow and thrive.
Watering and Fertilizing
Proper watering techniques
Proper watering is essential for the health and growth of a premna bonsai tree. Overwatering can cause the soil to become waterlogged, leading to root rot and other problems, while underwatering can cause the tree’s leaves to wilt and the tree to become stressed. To water your premna microphylla bonsai tree properly, follow these steps:
- Check the moisture level of the soil before watering. Use your finger or a moisture meter to determine if the soil is dry or moist. If the soil is dry, it’s time to water the tree. If the soil is moist, wait a few days before watering again.
- Water the tree thoroughly until water starts draining from the pot’s bottom. Be sure to water the soil evenly, and avoid wetting the tree’s leaves and branches.
- Allow the excess water to drain away completely. After watering, place the tree in a location where it won’t be in standing water.
- Water the tree again when the soil begins to dry out. Monitor the soil’s moisture level regularly, and water the tree as needed to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your premna bonsai tree receives the proper amount of water to support its growth and health.
Fertilizing Schedule
In addition to regular watering, premna bonsai trees must be fertilized to provide the nutrients they need to grow and thrive. A balanced fertilizer, applied according to the manufacturer’s instructions, is generally the best choice for bonsai trees.
To fertilize your premna bonsai tree, follow these steps:
- Choose a balanced fertilizer that is specifically formulated for bonsai trees. Avoid fertilizers that are high in nitrogen, as this can cause the tree’s leaves to grow too quickly and become weak and spindly.
- Apply the fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will typically involve mixing the fertilizer with water and applying it to the soil around the tree.
- Fertilize the tree every two to four weeks during the growing season and less frequently during the winter months. Be sure to monitor the tree closely, and adjust the fertilizing schedule as needed to provide the right amount of nutrients for the tree’s growth and development.
By providing your premna microphylla bonsai tree with regular fertilization, you can help support its health and growth. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and monitor the tree closely to avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm the tree.
Pruning and Shaping
Basic pruning techniques
Pruning is an important part of caring for a premna bonsai tree. Pruning helps to control the tree’s growth, shape the tree into the desired form, and remove damaged or diseased branches.
To prune your premna bonsai tree, follow these basic steps:
- Choose the right tools for pruning. Bonsai pruning tools are small and specialized and can be found at most gardening stores or online. Choose a pair of sharp, clean pruning shears or scissors and a small, fine-tipped pruning saw if needed.
- Identify the branches that need to be pruned. Look for branches that are damaged, diseased, or growing in an unwanted direction. Also, look for branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other, as these can cause damage over time.
- Cut the branches using pruning shears or scissors. Make clear cuts at the branch’s base, just above a bud or lateral branch. Avoid leaving a stub, as this can lead to decay.
- Continue pruning until all of the unwanted branches have been removed. Be sure to prune the tree evenly, and avoid removing too much at once, which can stress the tree.
- After pruning, check the tree for any other issues, such as pests or diseases. Treat any problems found, and monitor the tree closely to ensure it remains healthy and grows properly.
By following these basic pruning techniques, you can help control the growth of your premna bonsai tree and shape it into the desired form. Pruning can take some time and practice to master, so be patient and don’t be afraid to seek out advice and guidance from experienced bonsai growers.
Shaping the tree to achieve a desired aesthetic
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In addition to pruning, shaping is another important aspect of caring for a premna bonsai tree. Shaping involves training the tree’s branches and trunk into the desired form, using wiring, bending, and clipping techniques. The goal of shaping is to create a visually pleasing and balanced bonsai tree that reflects the desired aesthetic.
To shape a premna bonsai tree, follow these steps:
- Choose a shaping technique that is appropriate for the tree and the desired aesthetic. Wiring, bending, and clipping are bonsai’s most common shaping techniques, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages.
- Use the chosen shaping technique to train the tree’s branches and trunk into the desired form. Be sure to work slowly and carefully and avoid causing damage to the tree.
- Continue to shape the tree over time, as needed. Bonsai trees require regular shaping and maintenance to maintain their desired form. Be sure to monitor the tree closely, and adjust the shaping as needed to keep the tree balanced and aesthetically pleasing.
By shaping your premna microphylla bonsai tree regularly, you can help it develop into a beautiful and harmonious bonsai that reflects your desired aesthetic. Keep in mind that shaping takes time and practice, so be patient and don’t be afraid to seek out advice and guidance from experienced bonsai growers.
Common Problems and Solutions
Dealing with pests and diseases
Like any other plants, premna microphylla bonsai trees are susceptible to pests and diseases. Pests such as aphids and mealybugs can feed on the tree’s leaves and branches, while diseases such as root rot and leaf spot can damage the tree’s roots and leaves. To prevent and treat pests and diseases, follow these steps:
- Monitor the tree regularly for any signs of pests or diseases. Look for symptoms such as yellowing or wilting leaves, brown spots on the leaves, or small insects on the tree.
- Take action to prevent pests and diseases whenever possible. This may involve providing the tree with the proper care and conditions, such as the right amount of sunlight and water, and avoiding over-fertilization.
- Treat any pests or diseases that are found promptly. If the problem is minor, remove the pests or diseased parts of the tree by hand. Following the manufacturer’s instructions, it may be necessary to use pesticides or other treatments for more severe problems.
By monitoring your premna microphylla bonsai tree regularly and taking action to prevent and treat pests and diseases as needed, you can help ensure that your tree remains healthy and grows properly.
Fixing common issues such as yellowing leaves or slow growth
If your premna bonsai tree is experiencing common issues such as yellowing leaves or slow growth, you can take a few steps to try to fix the problem. To fix yellowing leaves, try the following:
- Check the tree’s watering and fertilizing schedule. Yellowing leaves can be a sign of over- or under-watering or of over-fertilizing. Adjust the tree’s watering and fertilizing schedule as needed to provide the right conditions for growth.
- Check for pests or diseases. Yellowing leaves can also be a sign of pest infestations or diseases. Monitor the tree closely for any signs of pests or diseases, and take action to treat the problem if it is found.
- Provide the tree with the proper light and warmth. Premna microphylla bonsai trees thrive in warm, humid environments with plenty of indirect sunlight. If the tree is not receiving enough light or warmth, move it to a location where it will receive the proper conditions.
Following these steps can fix common issues such as yellowing leaves or slow growth in your premna bonsai tree. If the problem persists, it may be necessary to seek advice and guidance from experienced bonsai growers.
How to Propagate Premna Bonsai
To propagate a premna microphylla bonsai tree through cuttings, follow these steps:
- Choose a healthy, mature branch from the parent tree that is at least 3-4 inches long. The branch should be free of pests or diseases and should have at least one set of leaves.
- Using a clean, sharp knife or pair of scissors, make a clean cut below a leaf node (the point where a leaf is attached to the branch). The cutting should be at least 2-3 inches long and should include a small portion of the stem below the leaf node.
- Dip the cut end of the cutting into rooting hormone, if desired. Rooting hormone can help to stimulate root growth but is not necessary for all plants.
- Plant the cutting in a small pot filled with well-draining bonsai soil. Place the cutting in the soil so that the leaf node is just below the soil’s surface. Gently tamp down the soil around the cutting and water it well.
- Place the pot in a warm, humid location with indirect sunlight. The cutting will need consistent warmth and moisture to root properly.
- Monitor the cutting regularly for signs of rooting. Once the cutting has rooted, it can be transplanted into a larger pot and cared for as a normal premna microphylla bonsai tree.
By following these steps, you can successfully propagate a premna microphylla bonsai tree through cuttings. Remember that not all cuttings will root successfully, so be prepared to try again if necessary. With patience and care, your premna microphylla bonsai tree will grow and thrive.
Conclusion
The premna microphylla bonsai tree is a beautiful and delicate plant that can add beauty and harmony to any space. With proper care and attention, a premna bonsai tree can be trained and shaped into various beautiful forms, making it a popular choice for bonsai enthusiasts. To grow and care for a premna bonsai tree, follow the steps outlined in this article, including selecting a healthy tree, preparing the pot and soil, watering and fertilizing regularly, pruning and shaping as needed, and monitoring for pests and diseases. With the right care, your premna microphylla bonsai tree will thrive and bring beauty to your space.
More about my personal bonsai journey with Premna:
