Hey everyone,
(all the pictures can be easily accessed in my Flickr album)
I obtained this tree about a year ago, but due to timing constraints, I couldn’t repot it immediately, despite noticing it was already root bound.
I patiently waited for the right moment, which presented itself this early spring in 2024 when I observed the candles beginning to swell, signaling an optimal time for repotting.
Opting for a larger pot to allow the tree ample space to thrive in the coming years, I utilized a mixture of coarse soil (1-1-1 ratio of akadama, lava, and pumice 1/4" to 1/8" as recommended on Mirai’s JWP page) to ensure better oxygen circulation, essential for Japanese white pines’ well-being as they dislike waterlogged conditions.
Regrettably, upon inspection, I discovered that most of the roots extending from the nebari were already deceased, with minimal finer roots in the soil showing signs of life. The inner soil near the core of the root system appeared to be comprised of aged, dark organic matter devoid of any living roots, while the outer layer consisted of coarse river sand housing a few struggling roots that were densely packed.
I proceeded to trim away the large circling roots at the base and the mesh of root-bound material along the sides, ultimately leaving the tree nearly bare-rooted.
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I must admit, I am apprehensive about the tree’s ability to recover from this procedure. Although I have experience with deciduous trees, this is my first attempt at repotting a pine, and I can’t help but wonder if I should have taken a more cautious approach, perhaps by
- retaining the side root-bound mesh,
- preserving some of the larger bottom roots that were actually alive,
- or trying to keep old soil at least.
Have any of you encountered similar challenges with Japanese white pines or other conifers in the past?
And would you have recommendations on how to salvage this tree ?
Thank you for any insights you can offer!
PS : I also wrote a post on Reddit, and fellow bonsai enthusiasts brought some ideas as well !
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