Refining a Ficus Natalensis Shohin

[Hank Miller]

Ficus Natalensis is, in my opinion, one of the best tropical species for bonsai. The trees are fast growing, very hardy and adapt well to growing in containers. If the material is well chosen good leaf reduction can be realized.

I have number of Natal figs of various sizes and I am particularly fond of my shohins. Normally I re-pot these trees every 2 years. As I do not adjust my soil mixture or feeding the foliage initially increases in size and abundance. I do not immediately begin leaf pruning as I like to let the trees recover a bit. Below is an image of one my shohins after re-potting about 4-5 months ago. The tree is clearly overgrown and has become a bit too large. Except when I plan to exhibit the trees are potted is larger pots than necessary. They are easier to care for, particularly in the summer months.

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After a bit of pruning to shorten and to make the tree more compact.

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Below are a few more.

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When the new foliage appears will post again. Enjoy. Hank

 

[Redwood Ryan]

Fantastic Hank. I'll be contacting you soon in regards to picking myself up one of these, since I missed you at the National Arboretum this year.

 

[Hank Miller]

I apologize for posting this thread 3 times. My internet connection is not very good and I was not sure if the upload got through. Hopefully someone can delete the other 2 postings.