Narrowly extended leaves create a loosely bushy appearance, which is accentuated by orange to red and trumpet-shaped individual flowers. The dark red fruits appear almost seductive. These factors are responsible for the pomegranate's popularity as a bonsai.
How to care for a pomegranate bonsai?
To care for a pomegranate bonsai, you should water regularly during the growth phase, fertilize every 14 days, prune in winter and wire or stake in spring if necessary.
How the species grows
The pomegranate is a deciduous tree from the Mediterranean region. The dwarf form Punica granatum var. nana is ideal for creating a bonsai because it remains naturally small and reaches a maximum height of one meter. The 'Nejikan' variety develops twisted trunks, which gives the mini tree a particularly attractive appearance.
Styles
The tree allows for all styles that are available in the art of bonsai. The most common is the broom shape, which you can shape through regular and targeted pruning. Wire techniques are not necessary for this growth habit. An upright tree also looks aesthetic.
Cutting
Pruning is possible in the leafless phase in winter until spring before the branches sprout. Pomegranates tolerate vigorous pruning and develop fresh shoots after two weeks. When the shoots have reached a length of 15 centimeters, they can be shortened to two to five pairs of leaves. This procedure is possible throughout the entire growing season.
Exceptions
If flower formation is desired, avoid any later interventions from April onwards. The intensely bright individual flowers arise at the ends of the shoots and round off the overall picture. To prevent the tree from overexerting itself, remove all but a few fruits.
Wire and tension
The ideal season is spring, as soon as the buds start to swell. To prevent ingrowth and scarring, you must check the growth weekly. One- to two-year-old branches can be bent into a desired shape using wire wrapping. Older specimens are harder to shape because they break easily. The bracing method is suitable for influencing their alignment.
Care
Like every mini tree, the pomegranate also requires coordinated care. Since there is limited space available for the tree in the planter, the administration of water and nutrients is very important.
Water requirements
During the growth phase, pomegranates use more water than during the dormant phase in winter. This increases additionally during the flowering period. Since this also depends on the environmental conditions, you should keep an eye on the substrate surface. As soon as it has dried slightly, water it thoroughly. Keep the soil slightly moist over the winter months.
Nutrient requirements
Fertilization is carried out every 14 days between March and mid-November. When the plants flower, suspend the nutrient supply. Liquid fertilizers for bonsai provide the trees with all the nutrients they need. Mix the liquid with irrigation water. As an alternative, we recommend fertilizer cones (€4.00 on Amazon), which are used for potted plants.
