Dawn Redwood (Metasequoia) Care Guide

🌳 General Overview

• Type: Deciduous conifer

• Hardiness: Hardy in UK climate (USDA zone 5–8)

• Growth Rate: Fast-growing

• Origin: China

☀️ Positioning

• Spring to Autumn: Full sun is ideal. Protect from scorching in heatwaves, though rare in the UK.

• Summer: Ensure adequate moisture, especially during dry spells.

• Winter: Fully hardy, but protect roots from deep freezes (e.g. place the pot in a sheltered spot, mulch, or use a cold frame/greenhouse if temperatures drop below -5°C).

💧 Watering

• Frequency: Daily during active growth (spring to autumn). Possibly twice daily during heat.

• Winter: Water less, but don't let soil dry out completely.

• Tip: Dawn Redwoods love moist conditions—never let them dry out. Rainwater is ideal, especially in hard water areas.

🌱 Feeding

• Growing Season (Spring–Autumn): Use balanced bonsai fertilizer every two weeks.

• Early Spring: Start with higher nitrogen to promote foliage.

• Late Summer/Autumn: Switch to low-nitrogen fertilizer to prepare for dormancy.

✂️ Pruning

• Structural Pruning: Best done in late winter (Feb/March) while the tree is still dormant.

• Maintenance Pruning: Pinch back new shoots in spring and summer to maintain shape.

• Note: Dawn Redwoods back-bud well, allowing for good styling options.

🪴 Repotting

• Frequency: Every 2–3 years for younger trees; 3–5 years for older ones.

• Timing: Early spring (just as buds begin to swell).

• Soil: Well-draining mix, e.g. Akadama, pumice, and lava rock (or John Innes No.2 with added grit for a UK alternative).

🪲 Pests and Problems

• Generally disease-resistant, but watch for:

  • Aphids in spring

  • Spider mites in dry, hot conditions

  • Root rot if soil is waterlogged

• Prevention: Good airflow, clean tools, and regular checks.

❄️ Winter Protection

• Fully hardy, but roots in pots are more vulnerable than ground-planted trees.

• Place pot on a raised surface to improve drainage.

• Wrap pot or place in a cold frame if deep frost is expected.

🧑🎨 Styling Tips

• Style Forms: Formal upright, informal upright, forest/group plantings.

• Wiring: Best done in late winter before budding. Be careful—branches are brittle.