How to grow golden larch (Pseudolarix amabilis)? Detailed guide to cultivation methods and precautions

The golden larch (Pseudolarix amabilis) has verdant foliage and a tall, upright form, and many people use it for bonsai. What are the cultivation methods and precautions for golden larch?

1. Cultivation methods for golden larch

1. The golden larch is a mycorrhizal tree species, so mycorrhizae must be present in the planting soil. The growing medium can be prepared from materials such as leaf mold, garden soil, peat soil, perlite or coarse sand. The soil should have a deep layer and be rich and fertile.

2. Seed propagation is carried out in February to March. First stratify the seeds in sand, and soak them in warm water overnight before sowing. Cuttage propagation is carried out in spring. Select robust branches from a 10-year-old tree and take 12-15 cm branches as cuttings.

2. The golden larch is not tolerant of drought, so watering should be frequent. Keep the potting soil moist at all times to prevent the soil from drying out. However, it must not become waterlogged, as this poses a risk of root rot. Pay attention to drainage during rainy days, and water less after leaf fall and dormancy in winter.

3. The golden larch likes light, and during the seedling stage it should be appropriately shaded. Avoid direct sunlight in summer. Ensure good ventilation.

4. During the growing period, apply a nitrogen-based fertilizer once a month to promote robust growth of branches and leaves. Alkaline fertilizers should not be applied. Adding a small amount of ferrous sulfate when fertilizing helps the plant grow robustly. Stop fertilizing during the rainy season, during high summer temperatures and during winter dormancy.

5. Repot once every 2-3 years, preferably after leaf fall in autumn and before bud break in spring.

2. Precautions for growing golden larch

1. The planting soil must not be dry, barren or saline-alkaline.

2. Apart from shading needed during high summer temperatures, it can be grown in sunlight in all other seasons.

3. Water in moderation; neither too dry nor too wet is acceptable. You can spray clean water near the golden larch to increase air humidity and prevent the leaf tips from drying out.

4. If the leaf tips scorch or the plant grows poorly, promptly investigate the cause.

The golden larch has great ornamental value, as well as economic and medicinal value. Whether as a potted plant or a planted tree, we hope everyone will take good care of it.