The genus Corylus has ten species that are represented in temperate latitudes. These trees are considered undemanding and easy to care for. They are not widely used in bonsai culture, although their slightly heart-shaped foliage provides an aesthetic appearance.
How to care for a hazelnut bonsai?
A hazelnut bonsai requires regular cutting and wiring, constant soil moisture and nutrient supply. Choose from species such as forest hazelnut or tree hazel and freely design upright, double or multiple trunk shapes.
Interesting facts
The leaves of the hazelnut are difficult to reduce, which is why this species and its relatives are rarely grown as bonsai. Nevertheless, the trees are suitable for different styles. The freely upright shape is just as possible as double or multiple trunks. The idiosyncratic literary form is not recommended for the hazel.
These species are possible
The forest hazelnut (Cosylus avellana) is a native species that is considered vigorous and develops upright shoots. Contorta is a special form of the native wild species that is better known as corkscrew hazel. Their branches are bizarrely twisted, which proves to be particularly attractive in the art of bonsai. The tree hazel (Corylus colurna) develops a regular and wide to conical tree crown in which there is a continuous central shoot.
Designing a bonsai
As with all trees, cutting and wiring techniques are recommended for hazelnuts. Regular checks and interventions are necessary to ensure that the plant does not become wild over time.
Cutting
Hazelnut bushes are tolerant of pruning, so you can continually shorten shoots. Even more vigorous pruning does not pose a problem, as the hazel grows out of the old wood. Remove unnecessary branches and those that disrupt the overall appearance in the leafless winter months. At this time you will have a better view of the branches.
Wiring
From June, young shoots can be shaped by wrapping wire. Wrap the wires tightly around the branches in a spiral and then bend them into the desired orientation. It takes about half a year for them to maintain their growth habit on their own.
Tip
If the crown branches are older, they can be redirected by bracing them. This method is recommended for spring when the tree is budding. At this point the wood is slightly softer and more flexible due to the flow of sap.
Care
In summer, the hazelnut bonsai relies on constantly moist soil so that the roots do not dry out. If nuts are desired, you must increase the watering. Soil dryness affects the ripening of the fruits. Over the winter months, the bonsai requires slightly less water. Never allow the substrate to dry out completely.
After the leaves have unfolded in spring, the tree is grateful for a supply of nutrients. This takes place every two weeks until the beginning of September. Liquid fertilizers are the optimal choice. They are administered with the irrigation water and should only be poured onto already moistened soil.
How to repot:
- at least every two years
- Short roots
- use fresh bonsai soil
- Don’t forget the drainage layer and cover grid
