On Jun 25, 2005, at 11:47 AM, Sue Marsh wrote:

Anybody tried bonsai with variegated plants? Specifically I've got a
few variegated Portulcaria afra' cuttings I got at Home Depot. I've
been subsequently told variegated plants have a tougher time as bonsai
as the lack of chlorophyll makes life tough enough for them, and that
the reduced leaf surface of bonsai makes it even harder. Makes sense,
and these guys don' get to be in full sun like their brethern.
Thoughts?


I wouldn't recommend the variegated form of P. afra. It's a very weak
variety. The regular variety is an excellent choice and propagates
easily from cuttings.

PS Home Depot has no clue how to take care of Portulcarias! They are
with the cacti, which is true, but man they needed water... they don't
quite do as well completely dried and shriveled like the cacti!


They definitely need more water than cacti.

Craig Cowing
NY
Zone 5b/6a Sunset 37

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