How to care for your Tree Seedling or Young Cutting.

The question most often asked is ‘how do I look after my tree?’ It can be a real worry when you have a small fragile plant, whether your intention is bonsai or to grow it big as possible. Luckily the task isn’t that complicated. It does require you be attentive and aware of the plants needs. But keeping things simple usually works best.

The biggest killer is overwatering, it can be so tempting to constantly top up the pot just to feel like you’re doing something. The compost should be kept moist but not sodden. On the dry side is usually better than wet. Though, this is not a license to let your plant dry out in the middle of summer. I like to stand the pot in a saucer of fine gravel so that any excess water will drain out of the pot.

The other killer is over feeding. I try to use a very small amount of fertiliser in the compost, preferably slow release. In good compost your plant should be getting everything it needs for a long while. If a plant looks sick the last thing to do is feed it. Liquid feeds are very good but you should never increase the strength above what is recommended. Use it a couple times a year if that, you aren’t feeding the plant like a person but topping up its reserves of nutrients.

Where to keep your tree? I grow the seedlings in an unheated greenhouse which gives protection from the weather and mice etc. Overly humid rooms could encourage fungus, and while obviously your plant wants sunlight it may prefer more or less at different times of day.  If you have just a few young trees it is good to put them in nice pot and keep them on a windowsill to enjoy watching them grow. It is best to put them outside when they are a bit stronger.

Bear in mind that all plants want to grow, our job is to give them the opportunity.