Plum blossom bonsai recommendations: A proud snow-defying winter plum grown at home adds even more elegance

The plum blossom is the longest-lived woody flowering plant among China's traditional famous flowers. Many ancient plum trees still survive in the country today, and they are historical witnesses to the splendid culture of the motherland. There are more than 200 varieties of plum blossom, including purple plum, red plum, white plum, Jiang plum, double-petaled plum, potted plum and tall plum trees.

As for choosing a pot for plum blossom, it is best to use a pot with good air permeability, an attractive and elegant appearance, and a traditional Chinese shape; glazed pots are best avoided. The plum blossom is a symbol of traditional Chinese culture, so choosing a Western-style pot always feels inappropriate. Any newly purchased pot cannot be used immediately for potting and planting; it must first be de-fired to prevent burning the roots. There are many methods for de-firing, and the simplest is to soak it in water in advance for a few days.

The plum blossom is a long-lived tree species, and its tree age can reach several hundred or even over a thousand years. Its growth state differs at different growth stages, and the purpose and technical requirements for pruning also differ. Young trees grow vigorously, and when pruning, the aim should be to expand the crown, moderate the tree's vigor and promote earlier flowering, so light pruning is suitable. The branches of mature trees slow their growth and bloom abundantly. Pruning of aging trees is mainly to ensure trunk renewal, and at this time the main purpose of pruning is to rejuvenate the crown.

Regarding fertilization: the plum blossom likes fertilizer, so after the flowers fade each year, organic fertilizer should be placed at the bottom of the pot. During the growing period, a thin fertilizer can be applied once every half month to promote strong growth. Before flower buds form, it is best to apply more phosphorus fertilizer. During the branch and leaf growth period, nitrogen fertilizer is preferable. From August to September, complete fertilizer should be applied; after October, apply more phosphorus fertilizer, concentrated at the roots once every half month, to promote flowering.