Brazilian Rain Tree Bonsai – Care Manual
The Brazilian rain tree is quite rugged in the natural landscape. It grows in a fashion that can best be described as determined; the heat and poor soil quality where this tree evolved created a tree that can snake across the ground to find sunlight. The bark of a Brazilian rain tree found in the rain forest is often splintered or twisted.
Those who hope to grown Bonsai Brazilian rain trees will be delighted to note that the bark of this tree is actually quite striking when the tree is given plenty of light, water and fertilizer. The bright green of the canopy is also a wonderful way to liven up your home. Even in the depths of winter, a Brazilian rain tree will give your space a pop of bold green.
Light
Making sure your Brazilian rain tree gets 6 hours of sunlight may be your biggest daily challenge. The light needs to be filtered, but you can easily do that with sheer curtains.
Take the time to monitor your Brazilian rain tree in its location after a few days. Are the leaves fading to a yellow-green? Is the plant developing some leggy growth? It’s probably not getting enough light. It will recover, but you will likely need to move it. If it’s getting too much sun, the leaves may turn brown and appear burned or scorched.
Your Brazilian rain tree can recover from either this over-abundance or shortage of light, but the key is to adjust quickly before too much damage is done.
Soil
Bonsai potting soil is likely best for your Brazilian rain tree. The pH should be kept between 6 and 6.5 for best growth. One of the biggest challenges in trying to replicate the original growth conditions of the Brazilian rain tree is that rainforest soil is often watered but seldom wet for the long term; the drainage in rainforests is surprisingly quick, in part because the soil is not rich in nutrients and sheds water quickly.
The Bonsai tradition generally doesn’t use a great deal of potting soil. This leaves the roots of your Brazilian rain tree pretty vulnerable. Do your best to work with a soil that provides as much nutrition as possible without leaving the roots of your tree soggy.
Fertilizer
The best fertilizer for a Brazilian rain tree is a non-flowering fertilizer; you simply need something that will allow the roots to soak up a balanced dose of nitrogen, phosphorus and calcium.
A seasonal fertilizing program is best for your Brazilian rain tree. If you choose to put your tree outside in the summer months, a heartier fertilization plan is best. During the winter months, cut back to half doses of fertilizer so you can focus on light and water.
A tapering off of fertilizer in the autumn may be best; as direct sunlight exposure is reduced, you can back off the intensity of your fertilizer dose. In spring, gradually increase your fertilizer application.
Moisture
As noted above, this tree evolved in a place that was often watered but seldom wet. If you can, water your Brazilian rain tree on a timer if you must be gone for an extended period. While you’re home, do your best to keep the soil around the roots damp to the touch.
Review the container that houses your Brazilian rain tree regularly. When you water, do your best to make sure that moisture flows easily out through the drain holes. If the water is clogged, the plant can be vulnerable to fungi and bacterial pests.
Pests
If you set your Brazilian rain tree outside for any parts of the summer, keep an eye out for signs of nematodes. Because the potting soil around your Brazilian rain tree is not abundant, it should be easy to spot any signs of nematode infestation so you can act quickly. Should you find that leaves are yellowing or drooping even with the right amount of sunlight and water, it’s time to treat your tree with a fungicide.
Seasonal Care
Summer is the time for your Brazilian rain tree to shine! Filtered sunlight is best; if you have a perforated patio cover or a partially sunny patio spot, your tree should get enough of the filtered sunlight it loves. Full sun for short bursts of time may also be beneficial; just keep an eye out for brown leaves.
The pot you have your Brazilian rain tree in should also be considered. One of the biggest challenges for gardeners is protecting the roots of your Bonsai tree from heat build-up. The small amount of potting soil in the pot can be kept damp to give the tree some protection from heat build-up, but that warm, moist soil can quickly become a haven for pest growth.
Temperature
Do your best to keep the pot itself cool. Start with a lightly colored pot that will reflect, rather than soak up, available sunlight. A cooling pad under the pot may be necessary if your patio gets a great deal of direct sunlight. Keep an eye on the direction and angle of the sunlight; if the windows of your home are reflective, you may be doubling up the sun exposure and putting your tree at risk.
Pay careful attention to ambient temperature as well. Your Bonsai tree will thrive in temperatures from 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. If you want to make sure that your tree gets time outside but the temperatures for the day will be hotter after noon, it may be best to bring the tree in around your lunch break!
Water, fertilizer, and light are all key to protecting your Bonsai tree for years to come. However, one day in extreme heat can be the end of a beautiful Bonsai. If your Brazilian rain tree does get too hot, be aware that it may show signs of stress in a few days. Keep it inside and keep it moist while it overcomes the shock of being overheated.