The Japanese larch (Larix kaempferi) is a beautiful deciduous conifer that is highly valued in bonsai due to its graceful needle clusters, vibrant green foliage in spring and summer, golden autumn display, and textured bark that develops with age. Extremely fine ramification is possible with this species, provided the opportunity for an excellent winter silhouette.

General Care Overview:

• Light: Thrives in full sunlight for most of the year. Sunlight promotes healthy growth and vibrant colors.

• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but well-draining. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, especially during active growth.

• Soil: Use a well-draining bonsai soil mix, such as a combination of akadama, pumice, and lava rock.

• Fertilizer: Feed regularly during the growing season, typically every 2-4 weeks, with a balanced fertilizer.

• Pruning: Regular pruning and pinching is essential to maintain shape and encourage ramification.

• Repotting: Repot every 2-3 years in early spring before new growth appears.

Spring Care (March to May):

• Repotting: Repot the tree in early spring before buds break dormancy, just as they begin to look like miniature paintbrushes. This species has a relatively tight repotting window and thus should be top priority once its signals that it’s waking up. Prune roots moderately and always leave a portion of the rootball untouched.

• Pruning: Perform structural pruning to remove unwanted or overly vigorous branches and refine the tree's shape. This is also a good time to cut back long shoots.

• Wiring: Wire branches in early spring prior to bud-break, but monitor regularly to prevent wire cutting into the bark. We have found this period is the only time of the year when larches should be wired.

• Fertilizing: Begin fertilizing as new needles emerge. Use a balanced fertilizer every 2-4 weeks to support healthy growth.

• Watering: Increase watering frequency as temperatures rise and the tree begins active growth. Ensure the soil remains evenly moist but not waterlogged.

• Frost Protection: Protect new buds from late frosts, which can damage delicate growth, by moving the tree to a sheltered location if needed.

Summer Care (June to August):

• Sun Protection: Provide full sun exposure, but in particularly hot climates, offer some afternoon shade to prevent stress.

• Watering: Increase watering during the summer months to meet the tree’s needs during its active growth phase. Japanese larch enjoys consistent moisture. In hotter climates, consider sitting the tree about a tray of standing water if constant watering is an issue.

• Pruning: Perform light pruning to maintain the bonsai’s shape and balance. Prune back to new buds which should be appearing on new growth at this time. Typically, these buds appear as slightly red bumps at the base of new needles.

• Pest Management: Monitor for pests such as aphids, spider mites, and caterpillars. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

• Fertilizing: Continue feeding every 2-4 weeks but reduce nitrogen content in late summer to prepare the tree for autumn hardening.

• Humidity: Mist the foliage occasionally during dry weather to maintain a humid environment.

Autumn Care (September to November):

• Foliage Display: Enjoy the stunning golden-yellow needle coloration before they drop.

• Pruning: Once needles fall, perform structural pruning to refine the tree’s shape and remove unwanted branches. Major pruning can be successfully carried out at this time.

• Wiring: We suggest holding off on wiring until late winter / early spring.

• Fertilizing: Stop fertilizing by late autumn to allow the tree to prepare for dormancy.

• Watering: Gradually reduce watering frequency as the tree enters dormancy, but do not let the soil dry out completely.

Winter Care (December to February):

• Dormancy: The Japanese larch requires a cold dormancy period and can typically handle very low temperatures. Place the tree in a protected outdoor location or cold frame to allow it to experience cooler temperatures.

• Frost Protection: This species, if protected from wind which can desiccate fine branches / roots, does not require much protection. Mulching around the pot up to the base of the tree is sufficient in most climates.

• Watering: Water sparingly during dormancy, ensuring the soil remains slightly moist.

• Pest and Disease Monitoring: Inspect the tree periodically for overwintering pests or signs of fungal infections, especially around the roots and branches.