So we have a few nice size lilly pilly trees out the front and the mrs wants this one fully gone
Is she looking confused as to why you are suddenly eager to do what you are asked
Should be a good time to dig most natives now.
Not sure that this particular one has good bonsai attributes but collecting it will add heaps to your skill level and lots of experience so even for that it will be worth doing. depending what you find, the smaller trunk may be worth something as bonsai?
Leave the trunk tall while you dig it. Long trunk is good for leverage while you dig through the roots.
When it is out, cut back all the roots so it will fit into a container then saw off the large trunk. I'd leave 20-30 cm of stump because you may use it as jin (deadwood at some stage) if the transplant survives. I don't think that tall, straight, thick trunk has much use for bonsai but time will tell.
Wash off most of the garden soil before putting it into a container with good potting mix.
Water in well then put it somewhere with some afternoon shade and water well at least every day while weather is warm.
Don't panic if all the leaves fall off - that is common after transplant and usually new shoots will come in a few weeks, sometimes the following spring if you collect a little later.
Don't even bother to contemplate what shape you will make until the tree has recovered and is growing really strongly - probably next summer.
Good luck and have fun.
Should be a good time to dig most natives now.
Not sure that this particular one has good bonsai attributes but collecting it will add heaps to your skill level and lots of experience so even for that it will be worth doing. depending what you find, the smaller trunk may be worth something as bonsai?
Leave the trunk tall while you dig it. Long trunk is good for leverage while you dig through the roots.
When it is out, cut back all the roots so it will fit into a container then saw off the large trunk. I'd leave 20-30 cm of stump because you may use it as jin (deadwood at some stage) if the transplant survives.
Wash off most of the garden soil before putting it into a container with good potting mix.
Water in well then put it somewhere with some afternoon shade and water well at least every day while weather is warm.
Don't panic if all the leaves fall off - that is common after transplant and usually new shoots will come in a few weeks, sometimes the following spring if you collect a little later.
Don't even bother to contemplate what shape you will make until the tree has recovered and is growing really strongly - probably next summer.
Good luck and have fun.
