The dawn redwood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides) is a unique deciduous conifer that is highly valued as a bonsai due to its rapid growth, feathery needle-like foliage, and striking trunk structure. Beautiful red bark is enjoyed year round, with an exuberant display of orange fronds in fall. The dawn redwood make fantastic group plantings.

General Care Overview:

• Light: Prefers full sunlight for at least 6 hours daily but tolerates partial shade in hotter climates.

• Watering: Dawn redwood loves moisture. Keep the soil consistently damp but avoid waterlogging.

• Soil: Use a well-draining but moisture-retentive bonsai soil mix (e.g., akadama, pumice, and organic matter).

• Fertilizer: Feed with a balanced fertilizer every 2 weeks during the growing season.

• Pruning: Regular pruning is necessary to maintain shape and encourage fine branching.

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

Spring Care (March to May):

• Growth Monitoring: As the tree comes out of dormancy, buds will swell, signaling the start of the growing season.

• Repotting: This is the best time to repot. Trim the roots slightly and use fresh, well-draining soil.

• Pruning: Perform structural pruning to shape the tree and remove any unwanted or overly vigorous growth.

• Wiring: Wire branches in early spring when they are flexible, but check regularly to ensure the wire doesn’t cut into the bark.

• Fertilizing: Start feeding with a balanced fertilizer once new growth begins. Gradually increase feeding frequency as the tree becomes more active.

• Watering: Increase watering as temperatures rise, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist.

Summer Care (June to August):

• Sun Protection: While the dawn redwood thrives in full sun, provide partial shade during the hottest part of the day in extreme summer heat to prevent needle scorch.

• Watering: Increase watering frequency, as the tree will require more moisture during its active growth phase. Dawn redwoods are tolerant of wet conditions but avoid waterlogging.

• Pruning: Perform light pruning to maintain the tree’s shape and balance. Avoid heavy pruning during periods of extreme heat.

• Pest Management: Watch for pests like spider mites, aphids, and scale. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

• Fertilizing: Continue feeding every 2 weeks with a balanced or slightly nitrogen-heavy fertilizer to promote healthy foliage and growth.

Autumn Care (September to November):

• Foliage: Enjoy the stunning autumn color as the dawn redwood’s needles turn golden-bronze before shedding.

• Pruning: After the tree drops its needles, you can perform structural pruning to refine the shape and prepare it for the next growing season.

• Wiring: Autumn is a good time to wire branches, as the tree’s dormancy makes them easier to shape.

• Fertilizing: Stop feeding by late autumn to allow the tree to enter dormancy naturally.

• Watering: Gradually reduce watering frequency as the temperature drops but ensure the soil remains slightly moist.

Winter Care (December to February):

• Dormancy: The dawn redwood requires a proper dormancy period. Place it in a protected outdoor location or cold frame where it can experience cold temperatures without extreme freezing.

• Frost Protection: Protect the roots from severe frost by mulching around the pot or wrapping the container in insulating material.

• Watering: Water sparingly during dormancy, ensuring the soil doesn’t dry out completely.

• Pest and Disease Monitoring: Inspect the tree periodically for signs of fungal issues or overwintering pests.

• No Pruning or Fertilizing: Avoid pruning or fertilizing during this period, as the tree is not actively growing.

Additional Tips:

• Humidity: Dawn redwoods appreciate higher humidity levels, so mist the foliage occasionally during the growing season if the environment is dry or grow over a tray of standing water.

• Training: This species grows rapidly, so consistent pruning and wiring are essential to control its shape and size.

• Display: Its dramatic taper and straight trunk make it ideal for formal upright styles, although it can also adapt to other bonsai forms.