September’s meeting was all about Mame – one of the smallest bonsai. Sandra gave a fascinating presentation regarding Mame followed by an informative repotting demonstration.

Mame
Size = 10cm tall including the pot.

There is a smaller size called Shinto that is 7cm and a larger size called Shohin that is 25cm from the rim of the pot.

Species suitable for mame – species that have small leaves, that tolerate root pruning well, and can tolerate getting too dry or too wet. If it grows like a weed it’s good for Mame sized Bonsai.

Care:
Keep them outside in a spot that gets shade from midday, sitting on a tray filled with stone chip and water.

Check every day that they have not tipped over or leaves etc. have not fallen on them preventing water and light getting to them.

They need to be watered every day Spring, Summer, and Autumn and checked for water needs every day in Winter. Protect from birds, cats, dogs, and children.

Feed = liquid feed (fertiliser mixed with water) every fortnight Spring, Summer and Autumn. Use the fertiliser full strength according to the instructions of whatever you use.

Potting Mame:
The potting mix I use – 3 parts Stone Chip to 1 part Organic Compost + 1/8th of a part Chicken Manure.

Process to pot Mame:
Prepare the pot with tie wires and mesh over the hole if needed. Mame need to be tied into the pot.

Take the Mame out of its pot and trim around the edges, bottom and top of the root ball only. Do not tease out or wash the roots.

Put a small amount of mix in the pot, place the Mame, add more mix then tie the Mame in place.

Gently water the Mame, then add very finely chopped sphagnum moss onto the surface of the potting mix.

Place in a protected area away from strong winds, birds, cats, dogs, and children. Do not water it again till it is dry, and do not feed it for 4 to 6 weeks.

Then Enjoy. 🙂