Bonsai-Seed:
Ginkgo / Maidenhair Tree

When growing bonsai, the great advantage is the ability to influence the tree's shape and form right from the beginning. While it takes longer to develop a tree from seed, this method allows you to put a personal touch on both size and styling early on. Using shallow bonsai pots results in more compact growth compared to trees found in nature.

Introduction
Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) is a living fossil that has existed for approximately 250 million years. As a free-growing tree, it can live up to 1,000 years. The Ginkgo is unique, as it is botanically a cross between a conifer and a deciduous tree, characterized by its beautiful fan-shaped leaves. The tree is extremely resistant to diseases and pollution, making it a fascinating and rewarding species for bonsai.

Propagation
Propagation is by seed and can be done indoors year-round. The hazelnut-sized seeds benefit from light scarring with sandpaper to improve water absorption, followed by soaking in lukewarm water overnight. Place the seeds on moist starting soil and cover with a thin layer of soil. At 20–25 °C, germination typically occurs after 3–4 weeks; in colder conditions, it may take twice as long.

Location and Light
Ginkgo is very flexible and tolerates most locations. However, very young seedlings should be protected from direct, scorching sun until they are more established.

Watering and Nutrients
Ensure even watering, as younger plants especially can quickly develop yellow and drooping leaves if they dry out. From mid-April to October, organic fertilizer is recommended. Nutrient application occurs throughout the growing season and depends on the chosen fertilizer. During winter months, when the tree loses its leaves (typically Oct/Nov), both watering and nutrient supply are significantly reduced.

Growing Medium
Ginkgo thrives in a well-drained mix, such as loamy garden soil with added sand. Many bonsai enthusiasts choose specialized substrates like akadama, lava, or pumice – either alone or in combination – depending on cultivation style and experience.

Pruning
It is often recommended to let the Ginkgo follow its natural, upright growth form. New shoots should be regularly pruned back to about 4 leaves to maintain shape and promote denser branching.

Overwintering
While Ginkgo is fully hardy in the ground, bonsai in pots require protection. Young seedlings in particular must be protected from hard frost. Bonsai are grown in shallow pots where roots are more exposed than in the ground. Therefore, it is generally recommended to overwinter bonsai frost-free to protect the roots from freezing and prevent plant loss.

Important Cultivation Tips
For sowing, use professional seed-starting soil or coco peat, as these media provide excellent aeration and have little to no added nutrients. Keep the medium evenly moist during germination – not wet.

Cover the germination tray with clear film or glass. To prevent mold, ventilate briefly every three days by temporarily removing the cover.

Limit direct sunlight for the first six weeks after germination. After 5-8 weeks, the seedlings can be carefully pricked out (transplanted). Be careful not to damage the delicate new roots.