Kumquat bonsai trees are a cherished symbol of Vietnamese Tet, representing prosperity, luck, and good fortune. A vibrant, fruit-laden kumquat tree brings joy to every home during the lunar new year. Mastering the art of growing these miniature trees is key to achieving this festive display. Nongnghiepvietnam.org, Vietnam’s leading agricultural website, presents a comprehensive guide to cultivating beautiful kumquat bonsai.
Grafting Kumquat Branches (2-2.5 Months)
Grafting Season
The ideal time for grafting kumquat branches is from the first to the third lunar month. The cool weather and high humidity during this period promote healthy root development.
Selecting Branches for Grafting
For successful grafting, select healthy, pest-free, semi-hardwood branches from a kumquat tree that is at least three years old and has borne fruit. The chosen branch should have a diameter of at least 1cm and be 12-15cm away from a branching point. It’s best to select branches with 2-3 smaller branches.
Grafting Method
The grafting technique for kumquat trees is similar to that used for other citrus trees. Refer to Nongnghiepvietnam.org’s citrus grafting guide for detailed instructions on how to graft your kumquat bonsai.
Grafting a kumquat bonsai branch
Rooting Kumquat Cuttings (7-20 Months)
Preparing the Rooting Bed
After 1.5-2 months, check the grafted branch. Once the roots turn yellowish-brown, the branch can be cut and transferred to the rooting bed.
An ideal rooting bed consists of sandy loam or light clay soil with good drainage and easy irrigation. The soil should be thoroughly tilled and sun-dried, then formed into raised beds 1.2-1.5m wide and 20-25cm high, with 30cm wide furrows.
Planting Density and Technique
The recommended planting density for rooted kumquat cuttings is 700-800 plants per “sào Bắc Bộ” (a traditional Vietnamese unit of land area). Water regularly to maintain soil moisture.
Caring for Rooted Cuttings
Once the cuttings take root and regain their green color, apply TOBA NET root stimulator three times, every seven days.
Every 1.5 months, fertilize the plants with a mixture of 20kg superphosphate and 40-50kg crushed soybeans. Sprinkle the mixture around the base of the plants and water thoroughly to dissolve the fertilizer.
Kumquat bonsai rooting bed
Planting Kumquat in Pots (11-12 Months)
Planting Season
The optimal time for potting kumquat trees is from the first to the second lunar month.
Selecting Saplings
Choose saplings appropriate for the pot size. Smaller plants should be planted in smaller pots, while larger plants require larger pots. Ideally, saplings should be 8-20 months old.
Preparing the Pot
Various pot materials can be used, such as ceramic, earthenware, or porcelain. Ensure the pot size is suitable for the plant and has adequate drainage. Common pot dimensions are 25-60cm in height and 15-30cm in width.
If the pot lacks drainage holes, drill 5cm holes in the bottom using a tile cutter.
Preparing the Growing Medium and Planting Technique
The ideal growing medium for kumquat bonsai is alluvial soil or a mixture of sandy loam and coal ash in a 4:1 ratio.
Fill the pot with soil to about two-thirds full, place the sapling in the center, and add soil to cover the roots, leaving 5-7cm of space from the rim. Firm the soil around the base and water with Ridomil MZ solution to prevent root rot.
Post-Planting Care
After planting, begin shaping the branches into a basic bonsai form. Apply TOBA NET root stimulator to promote root development and recovery.
For nutrition, alternate between SUPER HUME organic fertilizer and soybean powder (50-100g per plant). Ensure adequate watering, especially during the initial stages.
Planting a kumquat bonsai in a pot
Shaping Kumquat Bonsai
Pruning and Shaping Time
After 7-15 days, once the potted kumquat bonsai has regained its vibrant green color, you can begin shaping the branches.
Choosing a Bonsai Style
Observe the natural form of the branches and select a bonsai style that complements its inherent beauty. Some popular and easy styles for kumquat bonsai include:
- Formal upright: The trunk divides into two branches; the upper branch grows vertically, while the lower branch angles at 120-140 degrees relative to the upper branch. The main trunk rests on the pot’s rim. The tree has 5-7 foliage clusters (branches).
- Slanting style: The trunk leans at a 20-70 degree angle from the pot’s surface. Two main branches lie in the same plane, forming an arc above and outside the pot. These main branches have 5-7 smaller branches.
Other creative styles include the dragon rising, dragon descending, and cascade styles, depending on your preference and artistic vision.
Kumquat bonsai styles
Branch Bending Technique
For kumquat bonsai with a thick trunk (2-3cm diameter), use soft plastic wire (0.5cm diameter) wrapped multiple times from the base of the main branch to the end of the trunk section with a diameter of 1-1.5cm to prevent breakage during bending. Gently bend the branches into the desired shape using both hands, then secure them to the pot’s rim with wire.
After bending, prune the branches and leaves to shape the canopy, removing any excess or misplaced growth.
Pruning and Shaping Tips
- Regularly inspect and adjust the branches, promptly removing any misplaced shoots.
- Perform a second pruning and shaping in the seventh lunar month (when the kumquats are about 1cm in diameter).
- Remove the wire once the branches hold their shape and no longer revert.
Controlling Flowering and Fruiting
Inducing Flowering
To ensure your kumquat bonsai blooms for Tet, apply these techniques:
- Water deprivation: Starting in the fifth lunar month (sixth in a leap year), withhold water for 1-2 days. Once the leaves slightly wilt, resume watering. The kumquat tree should bloom uniformly within 10-15 days.
- Flowering stimulants: If flowering is difficult, use Profarm – Bor to encourage blooming.
Note: If the tree flowers abundantly naturally, stimulation is unnecessary.
Fruit Development
When the first fruits turn light yellow, remove 40-50% of them. This allows the tree to concentrate nutrients on the remaining fruit and encourages a second flowering, ensuring ripe fruit for Tet.
Pest and Disease Control
Common pests and diseases affecting kumquat bonsai include:
- Spider mites: Spray with Comite 73EC or Danitol 10EC.
- Citrus leafminer: Spray with Selecron 500EC.
- Aphids: Spray with Bassa 50EC or Trecbon 10EC.
- Scab: Spray with Daconil 75WP or Tilt super 300ND.
Note: Always follow the instructions on the pesticide label. Prioritize biopesticides for human and environmental safety.
Kumquat bonsai pests and diseases
Conclusion
Growing and caring for kumquat bonsai is more accessible than you might think. With diligence, patience, and the right techniques, you can cultivate stunning kumquat bonsai trees, vibrant with the colors of spring.
Nongnghiepvietnam.org hopes these tips empower you to grow and care for your own kumquat bonsai. Share this article with friends and family to spread the joy of cultivating these beautiful trees and welcome a prosperous new year.