bonsaiTALK Community - View Single Post - Repotting Cork Bark Pine

Getting the tree out of the pot is the first problem.

To tackle this, you'll need to release the tree from the pot by removing soil and impacted roots from the edges of the pot. Using either the root hook or the Repotting sickle, scrape along the edges of the container a bit at a time, , all the way to the bottom of the pot.

This may take several passes around the tree. It is particularly difficult if the container has an inward lip on it.

AVOID TOUCHING THE PINE AT ALL TIMES

This is difficult, but very important to avoid cracking or brushing plates or entire cork wings off the tree. Never grab it at its base and use it as a handle.

With luck, by the time you reach bottom your tree is loose enough that you can tip it out into the hands of an assistant. If not you may need to work some more with the root hook, using a couple of stout bamboo sticks (chopsticks are fine for small trees, larger sticks for larger trees) to lever it out.

If the drainage holes are large enough, you can use a section of broom handle to push the tree up and out.

Remember, gravity is your friend, and while the root ball, loaded with soil, is heavy, it's your best shot at getting the tree out of the container without damage.