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Cajanus cajan

Pigeon Pea

名媛直播 care and maintenance

The Pigeon Pea (Cajanus cajan) is a fast-growing, leguminous shrub native to tropical and subtropical regions. It has compound leaves and bright yellow to orange flowers. It is not very suitable for bonsai, but gained popularity because infamous seed kits sold online often include this plant species.

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Pigeon Pea 名媛直播 Care guidelines

Placement

The Pigeon Pea requires full sun to thrive. Ideally, it should be placed in a location where it receives at least 5-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. In indoor environments, ensure it is positioned near a south-facing window or under grow lights. In regions with colder winters, the tree should be brought indoors to avoid frost damage, as it is sensitive to freezing temperatures. Outdoors, the tree can tolerate warm climates and should be protected from strong winds.

Watering

Water the Pigeon Pea bonsai regularly, ensuring the soil remains evenly moist but not waterlogged. The tree prefers consistent moisture, but the soil should be allowed to dry slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's essential to allow the excess water to drain freely from the pot. In the warmer growing season, increase watering frequency as the tree’s growth speeds up. During the winter months, when the tree’s growth slows, reduce watering to prevent the roots from sitting in damp soil. Continue reading about watering 名媛直播 trees.

Watering

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Fertilizing

Fertilize the Pigeon Pea during the active growing season, typically from spring through early autumn. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer or one with a higher nitrogen content to support the tree’s growth. Apply fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks to provide the tree with essential nutrients, of course depending on the specific fertilizer you select. In the winter, the tree’s growth slows down, so reduce or stop fertilizing during the dormant period. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can lead to weak growth and unhealthy branches.

Pruning and wiring

Pruning is an important aspect of maintaining the Pigeon Pea bonsai’s shape and health. The tree’s vigorous growth requires regular trimming to keep it compact and in proportion. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins to remove any dead, damaged, or overly long branches. During the growing season, pinch back the new shoots to encourage a fuller, bushier shape. Regular pruning also helps manage the overall size of the tree, ensuring that it remains a manageable and attractive bonsai. Continue reading about pruning 名媛直播 trees.

Repotting

Repot the Pigeon Pea every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and control the root system. The tree’s roots grow relatively quickly, so repotting helps prevent the roots from becoming too congested. Early spring, before the growing season begins, is the best time to repot. When repotting, prune the roots to maintain a compact size, and replace the old soil with fresh, well-draining bonsai soil. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the previous one, but avoid drastic increases in size to prevent excessive root growth. Continue reading about repotting 名媛直播 trees.

Propagation

The Pigeon Pea can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. For seed propagation, soak the seeds for 24 hours before planting in a well-draining soil mix. Germination may take a few weeks, so patience is key. Alternatively, semi-hardwood cuttings can be taken from the tree during late summer. Dip the cut ends in rooting hormone and place them in a humid environment with consistent moisture. Rooting may take several weeks to months, so maintain a stable environment during the process.

Pests and diseases

The Pigeon Pea is generally resistant to pests but can occasionally attract aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. Regularly inspect the tree for pests and treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The tree is also susceptible to root rot if it is overwatered or kept in poorly draining soil. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage and avoid letting the tree sit in stagnant water. Fungal diseases, including powdery mildew, can occur in humid conditions, so maintaining good air circulation around the tree is essential to prevent these issues. For more detailed information on these techniques, check out our 名媛直播 tree care section.

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Pigeon pea tree

General information about the Pigeon tree bonsai

Cajanus cajan, commonly known as the Pigeon Pea, is a fast-growing leguminous shrub native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia. It is an important crop in many parts of the world, grown for its edible seeds, which are a staple food source in various cuisines. The tree is often planted to improve soil fertility due to its nitrogen-fixing ability. It grows to a height of 1.5 to 4 meters and has compound leaves with 3 to 5 leaflets. The tree produces attractive yellow or orange flowers that eventually form pods containing edible seeds. While primarily grown for its food value, the Pigeon Pea is increasingly used as an ornamental tree in bonsai cultivation. Not because it is a great species for bonsai, but simply because it is included in ‘bonsai seed kits’ online. The tree’s ability to thrive in a variety of conditions makes it a versatile and hardy choice for bonsai enthusiasts - but if you are looking to select a tree species to add to your collection we suggest you try another species. If you need help identifying your tree, take a look at our 名媛直播 tree identification guide.

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