Stewartia is almost the opposite of Trident in most of their growth responses, especially with roots and callus. They are very difficult to build impressive nebari so it's critical to start their root work early. Layering Stewartia is a slow process and then the basal flair is not so pronounced. This is a seedling grown through a ceramic tile and took three years to get this result.
Thanks for the info on Stewartia. I have several young trees but have had reoccurring issues with severe leaf burn (I live in Northern VA). Do you give these guys any shade? Do you know if they are particularly sensitive to salt build-ups? Thanks for the new blog, I'm enjoying it!
ReplyDeleteJoseph, they grow in sun, dawn till dusk. Excluding chemical burn, almost all leaf burn can be traced to root problems. Either from soil mix or watering regime. They prefer a free draining soil that holds moisture well. In spring, they should break bud in full sun so that they are acclimatized and then well fed. Sun makes food and growth. Growth makes roots.
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Hey Gary. Thanks for this good info. I have some seeds that I bought from Misho Bonsai and I was wondering is you had any good advice for me. According to the germination instructions they need 90 day warm and then 90 day cold stratification. Have you had any experience with this? Any help would be greatly appreciated.
ReplyDeleteHave a great weekend
Sam
Sam, All of this is assuming you are U.S. or Northern Hemisphere and these are Stewartia seeds. If the seeds were collected in the fall, place them on a damp not wet paper towel in a sandwich bag. Put them in the refrigerator for at least 60 days and sow. Hope this helps.
ReplyDeleteThanks Gary. I'm in NC. That does help. I'll put them in the fridge now because I've had them on a damp paper towel on my desk.
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