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How do Cupressus go as Bonsai?

Posted: October 16th, 2016, 6:47 pm
by Redsonic
I have been passing this beautiful blue conifer regularly, and noticed a For Sale sign outside the property. Asked the owner if I could take some cuttings (figured he wouldn't care as he is moving anyway).
BlueConifer1SmallOct2016.jpg
It is doing very well despite being in Brisbane. It may be in a cooler microclimate (I cycle past early in the mornings, and can feel the cold air which settles in this low lying area).
BlueConifer2SmallOct2016.jpg
BlueConifer4SmallOct2016.jpg
I took some cuttings and will try to establish some for myself. Does anyone have some advice re this species, or suggestions as to what the tree is if not Cupressus glabra "Blue Ice"?
BlueConifer7SmallOct2016.jpg

Re: How do Cupressus go as Bonsai?

Posted: October 16th, 2016, 8:19 pm
by Black Knight
Hi Redsonic,
Your ID is correct. You may find a bit more info under "Arizona Cypress"?
I have one going now & they are reasonably hardy, difficult to prune though, as they have a 4- point leaf structure.
Pinch growing tips 3-4 times per annum to keep ramification & strength on the inner areas, keep top in check to stop weakening lower branches.
Not much difference to Cedars in their care requirements.
Not the best Bonsai species in the world but definately try one.
Regards,
Black Knight

Re: How do Cupressus go as Bonsai?

Posted: October 16th, 2016, 9:29 pm
by Redsonic
Thanks for the advice, Black Knight.
I will try to get some cuttings going. If nothing else, it would make a great Christmas Tree.

Re: How do Cupressus go as Bonsai?

Posted: October 17th, 2016, 9:57 am
by treeman
These are very difficult to strike as cuttings. Take 50 and you might get 3 or 4. Better to grow from seed (also difficult) then graft back onto those.

Re: How do Cupressus go as Bonsai?

Posted: October 17th, 2016, 10:54 am
by Redsonic
I have been looking at Arizona cypress, and glabra seems to be a subspecies or variety, but they say it is characterised by smooth bark. Perhaps this cultivar in Brisbane is different. I certainly love the bark of the parent tree I have taken my cuttings from.
Fingers crossed I get a tree or two :fc: