Bonsai Making Methods and Care Tips for the Asparagus Fern
Making Methods
Choosing the Pot Shape
The specific shape of the pot can be determined by the tree form of the asparagus fern; it can be square or round, but generally we choose a rectangular, medium-shallow pot. If the tree form is the cascade style, a deeper cylindrical pot is generally chosen; for the curved-trunk style, a drum-shaped shallow round pot is generally chosen. The pot material usually selected for growing asparagus fern is purple clay ceramic, or glazed ceramic can also be used.
Choosing the Tree Form
The tree forms of the asparagus fern are truly diverse, including the upright-trunk style, slanting-trunk style, curved-trunk style and cascade style, each with its own distinctive features. The upright-trunk asparagus fern is tall, straight and vigorous, with an antique charm; the slanting-trunk style grows in coils like a reclining dragon; the cascade style is like a steep mountain with a dragon raising its head, truly spectacular.
Choosing the Soil
The asparagus fern is suited to a fairly wide range of soils; choose a deep, loose, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic nature, but do not choose soil with high salinity or alkalinity. Sandy soil can also be added and mixed in.
Later Processing
If the asparagus fern is planted in a relatively shallow pot, take care to reinforce the branches and trunk; wire can be used to bind the roots, taking care not to damage the roots, and then threaded through the round hole at the bottom of the pot. The later processing of the asparagus fern is mainly based on wiring, using metal wire. Select some young saplings, about 2 to 3-year-old young saplings, bend the trunk and branches of the saplings, prune the side branches, and wire them onto the asparagus fern, keeping them horizontal or downward. After one year of growth, remove the metal wire for adjustment, wire again, and after a few years the shape will be set.
Care
Temperature
The temperature at which the asparagus fern can grow is above 15°C, so be careful that the temperature in winter is not too low, otherwise the asparagus fern will stop growing; the suitable growing temperature is between 20°C and 30°C.
Light
The asparagus fern should be grown in a semi-shaded spot, and especially in summer direct sunlight must be avoided, otherwise the leaves will become dehydrated and scorched. At the same time, pay attention to ventilation.
Water
During the vigorous growth period of the asparagus fern, give sufficient water, but do not let water accumulate in the pot, otherwise the roots will be deprived of oxygen and die. In seasons of slow growth such as winter, there is no need to water frequently; simply keep the potting soil moist.
Fertilizer
Fertilizing should follow a regular pattern of once a month; nitrogen and potassium fertilizers are especially suitable and can promote the growth of the asparagus fern.