Red leaves of the holly family plant, Ilex cornuta, are considered to be excellent materials for bonsai because of their hanging red fruits and the ability to stunt their growth by using old stumps or inhibiting growth. Below we will introduce the maintenance methods of red leaves.
Soil
Red leaves prefer fertile soil, but they can also grow well in ordinary soil and do not have strict environmental requirements. It is best to use fertile, loose, rich in humus, and well-drained soil. Slightly acidic or neutral soil is suitable. For potted plants, it is best to use leaf mold soil or mix 20% sand with weathered river mud to promote root growth and development.
Light
Red leaves prefer a moist and semi-shaded environment, so it is necessary to open a shade net during the strong sunlight at noon to avoid high temperatures that may affect the growth of red leaves. After 4 pm, when the sunlight is weaker, the shade net should be retracted. However, it is important to note that the shade net should provide a comfortable environment for the plant, similar to a shady shed.
Fertilization
Red leaves do not require much fertilizer. Proper foliar fertilization is sufficient. Water-soluble flower fertilizer can be used, with a ratio of 5 grams to 2 kilograms of water. After preparing the solution, spray it on the leaves preferably between 4 pm and 6 pm. The amount of water should be enough to completely spray the leaves. Fertilization can be done every two weeks.
Pest Protection
Red leaves are susceptible to aphid damage. Prevention is key when dealing with aphids. Spraying with a 800 times dilution of malathion solution can be effective. The spraying should be done between 8 am and 10 am or after 4 pm, and the amount of spray should be enough to completely cover the leaves. For potted plants, spraying every 5 days is sufficient.
Repotting
Red leaves should be repotted once a year in spring. Replace the old soil with newly prepared cultivation soil (containing organic fertilizer and pesticides to eliminate underground pests).
When repotting, first use bamboo pieces to rotate along the inner wall of the pot, then invert the pot and hold the plant and soil with your hand to let it pour out due to gravity.
Then use a sharp knife to remove the outer 3-4 cm of old soil and roots from the soil mass, and place it in the new pot filled with cultivation soil. Fill the surrounding area with new cultivation soil and compact it, then water it thoroughly.
Special attention should be paid to measures such as soil insulation in colder areas during winter.
