Monthly Care of Bonsai in the Southern Willamette Valley
Eugene, Oregon is located in the southern Willamette Valley between the Coastal Range and the Cascade Mountains. The average rainfall for Eugene is forty-four inches annually, and most of this rain falls from October to June. The summer months, from mid-June to mid-September receive little to no rain. Temperatures range from low thirties in December to mid nineties in July. The Monthly Care guide is presented on four pages, in quarterly fashion. Some of the advice is provided by author Herb Gustafson.
January
January can have many rainy days and snow is also possible. The most important thing to do this month is to make sure that bonsai are not standing in water. Tip the pot to ensure drainage. Bonsai need to be protected from cold winds. A simple thing to do is to cover the trees with plastic sheeting on the coldest nights and windy days. Do not fertilize or do any transplanting. Indoor bonsai may need extra lighting. Be sure the trees are not too close to heat sources or drafty windows. Fertilize indoor trees once a month during the Winter.
February
February is the beginning of early Spring in the Willamette Valley. Camellias and snowdrops are blooming and some deciduous trees may start to show buds. If any of these are scheduled for repotting this is the time to do so. Wiring can also be done (before repotting) but care should be taken not to break any buds! Do not fertilize deciduous bonsai, but evergreens that are not scheduled for repotting may be fed lightly.
March
March begins the advent of some warm sunny days but rain is still prevalent and snow can occur, though infrequently. All deciduous bonsai should be root pruned and repotted during this month. Conifers can be wired but take care not to wrap needles. Conifers, camellias, rhododendrons, and azaleas can be root pruned and transferred from the ground into pots. Grafting should be done this month. Light fertilization can take place (10-15-10).