I thought I was in for a simple before and after post about a coast live oak until I began the root work.
Live oak before pruning
Live oak after pruning
After removing a few large roots, I found a pocket of old soil.
Old soil
Curious about where this would lead, I began picking at the old soil until most of the rootball had come undone.
After removing the old soil
For those who have repotted old live oaks, you’ll understand when I mention that the compacted soil of black organic material and sand was as tough as concrete. After removing a few more large roots and picking at the soil for two hours, I was ready to put the tree back in a pot.
Root work complete
Instead of returning it to a bonsai pot, I opted to use a large training pot to give the roots lots of space to grow.
After repotting, 20″ tall
I don’t know how the tree will respond to this work, but since it has been relatively weak for the past three years, I thought it’d be worth a try. Will report back when I know more.
News & Updates
- Preparations for the 2023 US National Bonsai Exhibition are on now! We’re looking for drivers willing to bring trees from California to Rochester, New York, for the September exhibition (learn about the event here). I can help coordinate but I won’t be able to make the drive this year.
- I’m looking for someone in the East Bay to help with watering this summer. If you’re interested in helping out when I’m away or unable to water, feel free to let me know!
- Client trees for sale including bougainvillea, coast redwood, and potato vine bonsai are available for local pickup in Fremont, California. This is a unique opportunity to pick up colorful specimens with substantial trunks!
Bougainvillea
Potato vine
Call or write me for the seller’s contact info.