General Care Overview:

• Light: Korean Hornbeam prefers full-sun, whereas its Japanese counterpart prefers partial shade. Protect from intense midday sun to prevent leaf burn, especially in summer.

• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist. Allow the topsoil to dry slightly before watering again.

• Soil: Well-draining bonsai soil is essential. An akadama heavy mix is appropriate.

• Fertilizer: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or a liquid bonsai fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season.

• Pruning: Prune in late Spring after new growth has hardened, can hard prune at this time. Maintenance pruning is appropriate within 2 weeks after leaf drop in fall.

• Repotting: Repot every 2-3 years in early spring before buds open.

Spring Care (March to May):

• Growth Monitoring: As the tree awakens from dormancy, monitor for new buds. This is an excellent time to repot if needed.

• Pruning: Wait to prune until after growth has hardened.

• Wiring: Wire branches in early spring when they are more flexible, but check regularly to avoid wire biting into the bark.

• Fertilizing: Begin fertilizing when new growth appears, using a balanced fertilizer to support healthy development.

• Watering: Increase watering frequency as temperatures rise, ensuring the soil remains moist but not soggy.

Summer Care (June to August):

• Sun Protection: Provide partial shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent leaf burn, especially in regions with intense summers.

• Watering: Monitor soil moisture closely, as the tree requires more water in warmer temperatures. Avoid allowing the soil to dry out completely.

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

• Pruning: Perform light pruning to maintain shape, but avoid heavy cuts during high heat.

• Fertilizing: Continue feeding every 2-4 weeks with a slightly reduced amount in mid-summer if growth slows due to heat.

Autumn Care (September to November):

• Leaf Management: Enjoy the stunning autumn foliage. Remove dead leaves after they fall to maintain cleanliness and reduce disease risk. Take care not to tear the petiole from the branch. These species protects its buds with the abscised leaves. Leaves should come off easily, otherwise wait a few days.

• Pruning: Once leaves drop, perform structural pruning to address unwanted growth. This is also a good time to refine branch shapes.

• Fertilizing: Reduce or stop fertilizing in late autumn to prepare the tree for dormancy.

• Wiring: Fall is a good time for wiring as the tree enters dormancy and build up vascular energy, making branches set quickly. Ensure that the tree is wired within 2 weeks of leaf drop, otherwise branches will be stiff and tend to snap more easily.

Winter Care (December to February):

• Dormancy: Hornbeam need a proper dormancy period. Protect it from extreme cold and frost by placing it in an unheated greenhouse, cold frame, or protected outdoor location.

• Watering: Water sparingly during dormancy but never let the soil dry out completely.

• Frost Protection: Mulch around the pot or use frost cloth to protect roots in freezing conditions. Avoid leaving the tree exposed to harsh winds.

• Pest and Disease Check: Inspect the tree for pests or fungal issues, especially around the roots and branches, as these can develop in winter.