Otaru Japan
Aliases: Japan
Scientific Name: Berberis thunbergii
Family and Genus: Berberidaceae
Origin: Native to Japan, and cultivated in both northern and southern China.
Ecological Habits:
This plant is highly adaptable, thriving in full sun but also tolerating partial shade. Purple-leaf and gold-leaf varieties should be planted in sunny locations. It prefers warm and humid conditions but can withstand drought and cold. The soil requirements are not strict, but it grows best in well-drained, fertile sandy loam.
There are over 200 species of small oyster plants, which are deciduous, multi-branched shrubs with small branches and leaves. They can be found from the northern regions of Liaoning and Jilin down to Yunnan and Guizhou. However, only a few varieties are commonly used in gardening and landscaping. Popular choices include small-leaf varieties, as well as varieties like purple peony. In fact, due to their small size and strong adaptability, they are excellent materials for bonsai. With proper cultivation and shaping, they can become remarkable works of art.
Wild Collection:
When collecting wild young plants, it's important to do so without damaging the local ecosystem. Choose areas where the plants are dense, and limit the number of specimens you take. The best time to collect is after the growing season has stopped in autumn, before the ground freezes, or in early spring when the soil begins to thaw. During this dormant period, the tree’s sap flow is slow, reducing the risk of infection and increasing the survival rate when trimming roots and branches.
When selecting plants for collection, look for trunks that are thick and have natural bends, as these will support a balanced crown in the future. If the trunk is too straight, it may become top-heavy. Therefore, choose one or more wild bushes that show potential for shaping. Consider how the plant might develop over the next three to five years—can it be bent? Can a straight trunk be shaped into a unique form? Can a group of straight stems create a jungle-style bonsai? Or can short-statured plants be styled on rocks? These considerations help ensure long-term success.
Pruning and Care:
After purchasing or collecting a plant, further pruning is essential. Trim the upper part by removing excess branches, while carefully preserving as many fine roots as possible to improve survival chances. Planting should be done in sandy soil or directly in the ground to maintain moisture. When burying the pile, most or all of the head should be covered. Ensure that the buds are alive, and if necessary, dig up again to encourage new growth.
It's crucial to remember that sprouting alone does not guarantee survival, especially if the roots were heavily cut during excavation. Initially, the plant may produce new shoots using stored nutrients, but it may struggle to regrow roots or suffer from heat stress, leading to wilting or even death. Throughout the entire process, careful and consistent care is essential to avoid mistakes that could lead to regret.
Shaping and Style:
Once the plant is established and starts growing, allow it to develop its branches and foliage. As the canopy becomes lush, remove any unnecessary branches promptly. Focus on retaining the main branches that will form the future crown, and avoid excessive growth. Then, begin detailed shaping of the branches and structure, using techniques such as wiring with brown lines, bamboo or metal hooks to guide the growth of new branches and leaves, encouraging them to naturally form a tree-like shape.
Ultimately, small oyster plants are ideal for miniature bonsai. They are not suitable for large or medium-sized styles unless combined with stone elements. Their small size allows for delicate and intricate designs, such as single-trunk, double-trunk, multi-rooted jungle styles, bush styles, or rock attachments. While shaping, avoid overly aggressive sculpting or bending. Maintain a modest approach, focusing on natural aesthetics rather than dramatic, exaggerated forms.
M Profile,M Profile Pipe Fitting Coupling,Pipe Fitting Coupling,Stainless Steel Press Fitting Coupling
Wenzhou Gaoya Light Industry Machinery Co.,ltd. , https://www.hongyafitting.com