How to Arrange Stones in an Acorus Bonsai? Detailed Methods and Techniques

  Acorus in the wild generally grows alongside stones, which looks very appealing. So, as a bonsai, an Acorus with arranged stones is more ornamental and more interesting than a solitary potted Acorus. Acorus itself has fine, fluffy leaves, lush and flourishing, gently verdant, while the arranged stones are jagged and craggy, with crisscrossing ravines and an ancient, rugged charm; between the two, the contrast of delicacy and simplicity, of vitality and ruggedness, is harmonious yet full of tension, revealing a vast world within a tiny space.

  Since arranging stones for Acorus is so significant, how do we go about it? Before arranging the stones, we first need to prepare all the necessary tools and materials. Only with thorough preparation can we stay composed and handle things with ease during the process. The Acorus bonsai we then create will be judged by its ornamental value and artistry.

  I. Preparing Materials

  To arrange stones for Acorus, we should prepare in advance all materials including a flower pot, potting soil, Acorus, stones, a trowel tube, small scissors and the like. These are the main materials; as for what else is needed, prepare as much as possible according to your preferences and needs.

  II. Potting and Planting

  Before potting, we need to place tree bark or similar material over the drainage hole at the bottom of the pot. On one hand, it serves to filter water; on the other hand, it prevents the potting soil from flowing out with the water. Then spread a layer of coarser substrate, such as volcanic rock, akadama and the like, which further improves drainage inside the pot. After completing this step, cover with a layer of growing medium.

  1. Placing the Plant

  Next, place the prepared Acorus seedling upright on the growing medium in the pot. During the operation of positioning the plant, we must also consider where the stones will be placed. So we generally need to place the plant toward the left or right side to leave enough space for the stones.

  2. Positioning the Stones

  After finishing the potting process for the Acorus seedling, we can position the stones for it. The stones should be placed as close to the plant as possible, so that the Acorus and the stones form as unified a whole as possible. Of course, when positioning the stones, you can also adjust the position appropriately, but the principle is to enhance the ornamental value while also harmonizing with the environment. To achieve the best placement effect, we might as well try positioning from multiple angles.

  3. Covering with Soil

  After determining the best posture for the Acorus and stones, we should promptly cover with potting soil, and the depth of soil coverage should be enough to completely cover the plant's root system. But note that this covering with soil is done after both the plant and stones are positioned; we cannot cover with soil for them separately. Especially for the stones, we should proceed by "planting the stone," making the stone appear as if it grows out of the soil, which looks more natural and vivid; we must never simply set the stones on top of the soil. When covering with soil, it is advisable to pour soil while stirring it with a tool to reduce gaps, so that the potting soil makes full contact with the plant and stones as much as possible.

  III. Laying Moss

  Moss is an important element in making an Acorus bonsai, because laying some moss in suitable positions makes the whole bonsai look more natural, though it does add some difficulty to care. When laying moss, be sure to let it naturally embrace the stones, rather than letting it bulge up high or form a separate mass. Laying moss scientifically and reasonably not only makes the bonsai look natural and full of wild charm, but also enhances the bonsai's ornamental value and artistic appeal; it truly is a material that serves multiple purposes at once.

  IV. Watering and Placement

  After potting the plant and positioning the stones and moss, we need to water it thoroughly once. Since Acorus is a moisture-loving plant, watering must be thorough and ample. After watering, move the bonsai to a cool, well-ventilated environment for about a week. Once the Acorus seedling has successfully settled in and blends more harmoniously with the stones and moss, it can be moved into the normal care routine.