Folio № 29 of 37 · in the garden since 2023
Canyon Live Oak
Quercus chrysolepis
Dense, slow-growing evergreen oak with leathery leaves and rugged bark; tolerates dry heat and adapts well to bonsai.
The year, as this species lives it
Thirteen phases. Touch any arc — the wheel remembers what each season asks.
Mid Fall · Oct 1 – Oct 31 · happening now
- Water less frequently but do not allow roots to dry out.
- Finish any major structural changes before hard frost.
- Monitor wire placement; remove tight wires.
- Remove fallen leaves to prevent overwintering pests.
- Begin planning protection setup.
- Keep cuts dry. Fungal prevention sprays may be applied.
- Last chance before winter.
- Tree enters dormancy; minimize intervention.
- Possible short-term display indoors only.
click another arc to travel the year →
The care sheet
The constants — what stays true in every season.
Full sun
Sunlight essential to reduce internode length.
Moderate
Let soil surface dry slightly between watering.
Balanced
Light feeding in early spring and midsummer.
Structural in early spring, maintenance after flowering
Responsive to hard pruning; control apical growth.
Spring or Autumn
Wire early; bark scars easily and heals slowly.
Every 2-3 years
Repot in spring; use well-drained soil with some grit.
Cuttings or seed
Can be grown from acorns or air layered.
Very cold hardy; protect container roots in deep freeze.
Tolerant once established; reduce water in extreme heat.
On the bench · 1
Every Canyon Live Oak in the garden, oldest hands first.
