Chapter 124 Pseudolarix amabilis
124.1 Golden larch
Chinese golden larch forest in the National Arboretum collection. Link to original image.
124.2 Soil: Ericaceous Mix
Ratio: 3 parts bark, 1 part peat, 1-2 parts grit
Add-ins: dolomitic limestone (MAX of 2 lbs/yd), Tree-Tone (15 lbs/yd)
pH: ~5.5-6.0 (acidic)
Moisture: Moist
124.3 Light
Routine: full sun. May struggle in hot and humid summers. Provide some mid-day shade if this occurs.
124.4 Cultivation Notes
A small golden larch in early training. Link to original image
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Best sited in a location protected from strong winds.
124.4.1 Potting & Root Pruning
Schedule: repotting should be done in late spring, before the buds open, or in autumn. Do not remove more than one third of the root mass.
124.4.1.1 Top & Branch Management
Heavy pruning: structural pruning of larger branches is done in winter when the leaves have fallen as it is easier to work. Avoid major branch pruning once spring growth starts.
Larches seal their own wounds, and grow strong callus tissue which closes cut wounds quickly.
Fine pruning: let shoots to be developed grow until summer, or 4-6 inches long. Cut back to the first or second bud once the buds become visible.
Pinch out new growth throughout the growing season to maintain the tree’s shape. Do not leaf prune.
Wiring can be done at the end of summer or in fall while branches are flexible. Alternatively, wire in winter before buds soften. The twigs and branches thicken quickly during the growing season and the wire must be taken off in time before it bites into the bark too deeply.
124.4.2 Feeding
Start feeding after the buds have opened in spring. Start with higher nitrogen fertilizer in spring, then transition to balanced formula to harden growth. Feed every 1-2 weeks with liquid or monthly with solid organic fertilizer.
124.4.3 Pests & Problems
No serious insect or disease problems.
124.4.4 Winter Storage
Store in mulch outdoors. Best sited in a location protected from strong winds.
124.5 Propagation Notes
124.6 Artistic & Styling Notes
124.7 Additional Information
124.7.1 Natural History
Native to Eastern China.