In Japanese: Seki-joju / Ishisuki. The sight of trees growing in or on a rock can be quite dramatic, as these trees have struggled to find nutrients in an adverse environment. With Bonsai, these types of landscapes can often be mimicked using pines. This guide describes in detail how to create a rock plantation.

How to create a Bonsai plantation in rock?


First, the right rock must be found. It should have many cracks and small holes inside to give the tree the space it needs to grow its roots. Then you must select the tree or trees you will use to plant in the rock. Pines are often preferred, but deciduous trees can also be used. The chosen trees must be healthy and have long roots, therefore, they must have been planted in a large container at least the previous year before using them in rock planting. Finally, prune the substrate by mixing Akadama and garden mold in a ratio of ½ to ½ (read the Bonsai Substrate article for more detailed information on soil mixtures for different species and climates, etc.).

And then? Subsequent care


Once you have created the rock plantation you can finish the composition by placing the rock on a flat tray. Prune the tree immediately after planting it in the rock to decrease the nutrient demand of your root system. Start fertilizing a month later, as the limited amount of substrate will easily lose its nutritional value. Also water regularly, as the substrate is likely to dry out quickly.

Creating a Bonsai plantation on rock, step by step

We have selected a good rock that will be part of the composition inside a bonsai pot. Of course, you can also grow a Bonsai on a rock without using a pot; But regular watering will be extremely important!

  1. We place the rock in the pot and stick it to the bottom.
  2. Attach a few wires to the rock using glue, which will later be used to anchor the trees to the rock.
  3. Since the pot has a drainage hole, we cover it with a mesh to prevent the soil from draining when watering the tree.
  4. Place the tree on the rock and secure it using the wire that was previously placed.
  5. An approach to the rock.
  6. The composition with a bonsai and the completed rock.