All Species > Larix kaempferi

Japanese Larch

Deciduous conifer with strong seasonal character; flexible when young; ideal for literati styles.

Seasonal Care Guide

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  • Watering: Minimal, only to prevent desiccation.
  • Repotting: Prepare tools and soil mix if repotting is needed.
  • Pruning: Plan for structural pruning soon.
  • Wiring: Inspect old wiring for potential bite.
  • Bud Shoot Management: Monitor buds for early signs of swelling.
  • Pests Disease: Check for overwintering pests in bark and soil.
  • Winter Protection: Maintain shelter from deep freeze; roots are vulnerable.
  • Wound Management: Treat any old wounds if healing was poor.
  • Deadwood Carving: Safe to carve deadwood on dormant wood.
  • Propagation: Prepare materials for spring cuttings.
  • Development: Review development goals and timelines.
  • Display: Avoid displaying during dormancy.

Placement & Seasonal Notes

  • Placement: Full sun
  • Notes: Provide full sun to encourage short internodes.
  • Winter: Fully hardy but protect fine roots from ice damage.
  • Summer: Needs regular watering in heat; mulch helps retain moisture.

Leaf Traits

  • Persistence: Deciduous
  • Form: Conifer

Watering & Fertilization

  • Watering: Moderate to high
  • Notes: Water deeply; don't allow to fully dry.
  • Season: Spring → Autumn
  • Fertilization: Balanced
  • Notes: Feed every 2 weeks in spring; reduce after midsummer.

Training Techniques

  • Wiring: Spring or Autumn
  • Notes: Very flexible when young; bark scars easily.
  • Pruning: Structural in spring, maintenance in summer
  • Notes: Pinch candles for refinement; hard prune in early spring.
  • Repotting: Every 2-4 years
  • Notes: Repot in early spring before bud swell; root prune moderately.

Propagation

  • Method: Cuttings or seed
  • Notes: Layering and softwood cuttings in spring work well.

Zone 8b Considerations

Very rot-prone in winter; ensure drainage