Continue to selectively pinch new growth to develop ramification. New growth will generally slow down at this time of year.

Watch for pests, especially Japanese beetles and spider mites. Apply insecticide early in the morning or late in the evening, not during the hot part of the day.

If there is still wire on the trees, check routinely for cutting. Generally, at this time of year, only evergreens still have wire on them.

Fertilization should be stopped during August.

Watering during August is a potential problem. Since the trees are somewhat dormant, water requirements slow down. Use the chopstick method to determine if the tree needs watering. If the soil is damp, it may be better to wait until the next day or later in the same day to apply water. Each tree has its own watering needs, depending on the amount of foliage, the size of the pot, the type of soil, the tree location relative to the amount of sun it receives, and the outside temperature. The soil can dry out quickly when the temperature gets high.

To help cool the soil and pot, I try to water around noon. In large pots, after watering, the soil temperature stays cool for three to four hours even when the pot is in direct sun. For shohin pots, the temperature rises within 1 to 2 hours. Another factor is the color of the pot – darker pots absorb heat quicker than light color pots.