Biogold: 100% Organic Fertilizer for Bonsai and Plants

Biogold

Biogold is a 100% organic fertilizer that has gained immense popularity in Japan, recognized as one of the top fertilizers for bonsai. This article explores its uses, recommended quantities for various plants, and numerous benefits.

What is Biogold?

Biogold is a Japanese manufacturer specializing in 100% organic fertilizers made from natural and environmentally friendly ingredients. For over 20 years, the brand has offered a range of solid and liquid fertilizers, including Biogold Original, Classic, Rose Selection, Grass Selection, and Biogold Vital.

Among these, Biogold Original stands out as the most well-known. It contains essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, alongside natural trace elements like magnesium, calcium, sulfur, and iron. This gentle and balanced fertilizer is suitable not only for bonsai but also for orchids, roses, potted plants, and more.

Biogold is widely recognized as one of the most utilized organic fertilizers in the bonsai community, largely due to its unique composition and patented biological fermentation method, which allows for a gradual release of nutrients over several weeks.

Biogold Original Composition: NPK 5.5 – 6.5 – 3.5 + magnesium + various trace elements. Biogold Classic Composition: NPK 2 – 8 – 4 + magnesium + various trace elements.

Using Biogold as Solid Fertilizer

For bonsai or potted plants, simply place the Biogold pellets on the soil surface or partially buried a few centimeters from the trunk or base of the plant. The Biogold Original is a slow-release solid fertilizer that provides nutrients for about 45 to 50 days (approximately 4 to 5 weeks). Once this period has passed or when the pellets are nearly disintegrated, new pellets can be added.

Tips:

• If there are leftover crumbs of Biogold, they can be added to the watering can to create a liquid fertilizer.
• As a slow-release fertilizer, it’s also possible to add a few grains during repotting or transplanting.

Using Biogold as Liquid Fertilizer

While Biogold Original is primarily a solid fertilizer, it can also be utilized as a liquid fertilizer. To prepare it, dilute 2 to 3 pellets in one liter of water and allow the pellets to dissolve for several days to enhance nutrient release.

For optimal results, store the solution in a cool, dark place and use it within a month to maximize nutrient availability. Shake well before use.

Tips: If you have leftover crumbs or powder from Biogold, you can store them in a container for later use as a liquid fertilizer.

Recommended Quantities of Biogold

For Bonsai

The amount of Biogold to apply varies based on pot size, plant species, and season. As a general guideline, use about 5 to 8 pellets for a 15 cm pot. Spread the pellets across the soil surface a few centimeters from the trunk and replenish every five weeks.

For liquid application, use 2 to 3 pellets per liter of water and allow them to dissolve for a few days.

Tips:

• If you are new to using Biogold or applying it for the first time to a bonsai, it’s advisable to start with a smaller quantity and monitor the tree's response.
• To enhance flowering or fruiting in flowering or fruiting bonsai (like citrus, olive, or azalea), consider adding a few extra pellets.

For Other Plants

Biogold is not limited to bonsai; it is also suitable for a variety of potted plants, whether indoors or outdoors, flowering or fruit-bearing. Below are some dosage recommendations based on plant type:

| Plant Type | Pot Size | Quantity and Notes | |------------------------------|--------------|----------------------------------| | Bonsai | 15 cm pot | 5 - 8 pellets | | Flowers, vegetables, herbs | 15 cm pot | 10 - 15 pellets | | Indoor plants | 15 cm pot | 10 - 15 pellets | | Orchids (Phalaenopsis) | 9 cm pot | 3 - 4 pellets | | Roses | 30 cm pot | 25 - 30 pellets | | Chrysanthemums | 15 cm pot | 20 pellets | | Pilea | 10 cm pot | 5 - 8 pellets | | Christmas Rose, Hellebore | 15 cm pot | 15 pellets |

Tips:

• If you’ve just acquired your plant or are using this fertilizer for the first time, start with a lower dosage and observe its reaction.
• For larger plants or to improve flowering or fruiting, consider adding a few extra pellets.

When to Use Biogold

For most bonsai species, Biogold Original can be used from spring to early autumn, specifically from March to October. For tropical bonsai kept indoors during winter (like ficus or carmona), you can continue fertilizing, but with reduced quantities.

Benefits of Biogold

Here are some advantages and unique features of Biogold, based on both the manufacturer's insights and user experiences:

• 100% Natural Organic Fertilizer: All Biogold products are made from 100% natural organic ingredients, making them suitable for organic farming.
• Ease of Use: Simply place a few pellets on the soil. As a slow-release organic fertilizer, it contains natural nutrients, eliminating the risk of over-fertilization.
• Odorless: Unlike many organic fertilizers that can emit unpleasant odors, Biogold has a very mild initial scent that disappears after the first watering, making it ideal for indoor bonsai.
• Non-Toxic: These fertilizers are non-toxic and safe for pets like dogs, cats, and rabbits.
• Insect Resistant: Biogold is designed to avoid attracting insects (like flies and mosquitoes), slugs, and snails, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
• Multi-Purpose: While perfect for bonsai, Biogold is also effective for a wide range of plants, including orchids, cacti, aloe vera, and roses.

Where to Buy Biogold

Biogold can be purchased from bonsai professionals or online. The Biogold Original is available in packages of 240g, 900g, 2.4kg, and 5kg.