DIY Bonsai Disinfectant: Alternative Bonsai Cut Paste

 

Do you need bonsai cut paste?

Do you need to seal the wounds after cutting your bonsai?

Bonsai trees are delicate because of their challenging growing environment and require protection from infections, pests and diseases.  Sealing the wounds, especially big ones, helps to protect them from these threats, encouraging the tree to heal faster and more efficiently without leaving nasty scars.

When you prune or cut your bonsai, the exposed wood can attract pests, fungi, and bacteria, which may lead to rot and other complications.  Smaller cuts often heal on their own without any intervention but for larger ones, sealing is a critical step to make sure your trees stay healthy and beautiful.

For more about preventing pests and diseases, please check the following post.

Do you need cut paste for your bonsai?

What does the bonsai cut paste do to your tree?

Bonsai cut paste is specifically designed to seal wounds of trees and promote healing.  It’s widely used by bonsai enthusiasts in Japan to protect cuts and make sure that the tree heals properly.

The most commonly used one is “Cut Paster”, which is the registered trademark of the manufacturing company.  This cut paste, made largely from synthetic materials like acrylic resin and vinyl acetate, forms a durable, flexible barrier over the wound, preventing infection as well as dehydration.

Do you need cut paste for your bonsai?

You need some kind of wound sealant for larger wounds or for species that are more vulnerable to infections.  Using the cut paste can be a valuable tool but it’s not the only way.

What is the alternative to bonsai cut paste?

You need some kind of protection from infections, pests and diseases that encourages trees to heal nicely and you can totally make an excellent alternative to traditional cut paste on your own.

Unlike cut paste, which primarily seals the wound with synthetic resin, this DIY disinfectant not only protects but also actively disinfects the cut area made from natural ingredients like Chinese ink, chitosan and acetic acid.  It forms a protective layer over the wound, similar to cut paste, but with the added benefit of natural disinfection.

While good for a short while, candle/bee wax and Vaseline may not be an alternative because they will not be durable enough to endure sunlight, rain or heat/cold until your tree wounds heal completely.

DIY Bonsai Disinfectant

Ingredients for DIY bonsai disinfectant

To make 100ml of bonsai disinfectant, you will need the following.

List of Ingredients:

1. Chinese ink: 90ml
2. Chitosan:0.3g
3. Acetic acid (or citric acid): 0.3g
4. Spreader sticker: Look at the label
5. Water: 500ml

BTW, these are almost exactly the same ingredients used in wound sealant “Kininool” used for trees including bonsai manufactured by Boku-Undo, a company manufacturing Chinese ink since 1805 (Their website is only available in Japanese).

Chinese ink: Prevents bacterial growth

Chinse ink, traditionally used in Asian calligraphy, is rich in carbon, which has natural antibacterial properties (doen’t kill them though).

In this disinfectant, Chinese ink acts as a base that helps coat the wound, creating a thin protective layer that prevents pathogens from entering.  Its dark color also helps to camouflage the wound, giving your bonsai a more natural appearance after treatment.

Chitosan: Boosts plant immunity

Chitosan is a natural product derived from material found in the shells of crustaceans.  It’s known for its antimicrobial and wound-healing properties.  When added to soil, chitosan promotes root formation and growth, which improves the decomposition and absorption of nutrients from the soil and promotes plant growth.

In this disinfectant, chitosan works as a powerful antimicrobial agent that promotes faster healing of the cut surface while preventing infections.  It also helps to create a flexible barrier that supports the wound as it heals, similar to how synthetic cut paste functions.

Acetic Acid: Natural preservative

Acetic acid, the main component of vinegar, is a strong antibacterial and antifungal property.

In this disinfectant, acetic acid acts as a disinfectant that ensures the wound remains clean and free from infection during the healing process.

It also acts as a solvent.  Chitosan is not soluble in water but it dissolves well in acidic solutions.  So, acetic acid lowers the pH of the solution, allowing chitosan to dissolve easily in this potion.

Spreader sticker: Helps the solution adhere

A spreader sticker is an additive to enhance the adhesion of solution and coverage on surfaces.

In this disinfectant, the spreader sticker helps the mixture evenly coat the wound and stay in place.  Without this, the solution will be quickly washed away with rain and watering.

Tools you need

1. Measuring tools (spoons, measuring cups)
2. Mixing container
3. Airtight container for storage
4. Something to stir

DIY Bonsai Disinfectant: Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s walk through the process of making your bonsai disinfectant. This step-by-step guide will help you create about 100 ml of disinfectant, which should be enough to cover your bonsai needs for one season.

Step 1: Make Chitosan solution

We need Chitosan at a concentration of 0.006% in the final product.  You will need hot water (approximately 40°C) for this process.

Prepare chitosan solution (stock solution)

Mix 0.3g of chitosan powder with 10ml of hot water (It doesn’t dissolve at this time).  Add an equal amount or up to 1.5 times the amount of citric acid powder to the mixture.  Stir the mixture thoroughly until the chitosan is dissolved.

This will create a stock solution with a concentration of 30g/L.

Dilute the stock solution

To achieve a 0.006% concentration, dilute the stock solution 500 times.  For example, mix 1ml of the stock solution with 499ml of water to get the desired diluted solution.

To make 100ml of this disinfectant with a 0.006% chitosan concentration, you only need 10ml of this diluted solution.

The remaining diluted solution can be spread on the soil.  It enhances beneficial bacteria growth in the soil and keep the soil healthy.  You can also spray on the leaves, but the spraying interval should be every 2-3 weeks, and the spraying time should be either in the morning or evening.

Keep the stock solution, if any, in the fridge.  When spraying on the leaves or soil, make sure to dilute it 500 times.

Step 2: Mix Chinese ink and Chitosan solution

Measure 10ml of the diluted chitosan solution and add it to 90ml of Chinese ink.  Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure the chitosan is evenly distributed and well-blended with the ink.

Step 3: Add Spreader Sticker and Mix Thoroughly

When using a spreader sticker, refer to the label instructions and add the recommended amount to your mixture.  Stir the mixture thoroughly until it becomes uniform in consistency.  The mix should be smooth and cohesive.

If you prefer a perfectly natural option, you can gelatin as glue.  Make sure to gently heat the gelatin beforehand to ensure it’s smooth and easy to mix.  This will provide a natural adhesive quality but on the downside, the solution may go bad quicker.

Step 4: Transfer and Store

Once you’re satisfied with the consistency, carefully transfer the disinfectant into an airtight container.  This will help maintain its freshness and potency over time.

Store the container in a cool, dark place.  Proper storage will ensure that the disinfectant remains effective throughout the bonsai season.

With these simple steps, you’ll have a natural, effective disinfectant ready to protect your bonsai trees. This homemade alternative to commercial bonsai cut paste not only safeguards your trees but also aligns with a more natural approach to bonsai care.

How to Apply DIY Bonsai Disinfectant

Now that your disinfectant is ready, let’s go over the correct application process.  It’s important to apply the disinfectant immediately after making any cuts on your bonsai to prevent the wound from drying out and to protect it from potential infections.

You will need a dish and a brush for application.

Step 1: Dispense the disinfectant

Dispense an appropriate amount of the disinfectant to cover the wound on a dish.  A thin, even layer is enough to protect the wound.

Step 2: Use a Brush for Even Application

Using a small brush, apply the disinfectant evenly across the surface of the wound.  Brush it in smooth, even strokes to make sure a uniform layer without any missed spots.  This helps the disinfectant adhere better and stay in place while it dries.

Step 3: Allow Time to Dry

After application, give the disinfectant time to dry and form a protective barrier.  Make sure your bonsai is placed in a well-ventilated area and out of rain/watering as this can affect the drying process.

Once dried, the wound will be sealed and protected from external elements.

By following these simple steps, you’ll provide your bonsai with a natural, effective layer of protection that prevents infection and encourages healthy healing.  Proper application ensures the disinfectant adheres well and delivers optimal protection for your tree’s cuts.