Page 18 - BSAM 2015 Q3

Top four images; Initially the tree was styled as a semi cascade and coarsely wired.
Middle left; the Mugo pine with its inclination changed from semi cascade to informal upright.
Bottom; Antonio Jesùs from Spain, is shown below applying the wire and jin solution at the top right of facing page.
mugo. Nibelungen are a mythological people of Germanic legends ruled by Prince “Nibelung.” The composer Richard Wagner composed a cycle of four operas titled Der Ring des Nibelungen based on these mythological legends.
How did you cultivate this tree during the first three years while it was recovering from the shock of being transplanted?
To increase its strength and maximize growth, it is necessary to use the method taught to me by my teacher Kimura, consisting of attentive watering, amino acid protein fertilizers and pure Akadama growing medium for an exceptional capacity for cation exchange.
Akadama’s ability to hold and release plant nutrients is renowned. Are there other types of growing media that have similar properties?
No, in my opinion there is nothing like Akadama.
Are there other potting mixes that you use and why?
I personally use pure Akadama during the first ten years after the collection of pine trees, then switch to a mixture of 50% Akadama and 50% Kiryuzuna which is a harder equivalent to Akadama that will retain structure for longer.
How did the cultivation change when the tree re- gained its vigor?
To balance its growth I reduced fertilization and container size. In a few years it will be transplanted in Akadama mixed with 50% Kiryuzuna. The tree
16 | BCI | July/August/September 2015