The valley oak is the largest North American oak. These trees provide important nesting habitat for many bird species. As the name implies, valley oaks once covered rich valley bottoms in California. Much of this historic habitat is now covered in cities, although the trees are still common in undeveloped areas.
The tree during rapid spring growth last month.
The tree the day it was purchased from Walter Andersen’s nursery in San Diego.
Beginning its life as a developing bonsai.
Initial wiring.
First repotting.
Bottom third of rootball removed.
Soil removed from roots with chopstick.
Longer roots pruned and tree placed in new pot.
The repotted tree. The branches are long and the plan is to gradually shorten them as the tree matures.
Branches allowed to grow freely during recovery.
Spring growth.
Branches pruned.
Possible front for the tree.
Second wiring.
Another possible front.
Leaf-tips browning. I have come to the conclusion that I need to water my oaks more during San Diego summers, and possibly reduce sun exposure.
Second flush of new growth in August.
Branches shortened during winter.
Spring growth.
The tree today.
beginBonsai 