Folio № 28 of 36 · 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 Summer · Jul 1 – Aug 10 · happening now
- Monitor daily. Use chopstick method to gauge soil. Provide humidity trays if needed.
- Withhold fertilizer during heat waves to avoid root burn.
- Minimal pruning; allow energy storage. Maintain form if needed.
- Remove wires that have started to bite. Do not apply new wiring.
- Let tree rest. Avoid forcing new growth.
- Watch for fungal leaf spot from overhead watering. Increase airflow.
- Maintain shade. Watch for sun scorch on older leaves.
- Only minor cleaning of callus areas.
- Continue air layering if started earlier.
- Rest phase. Maintain health.
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.
