Introduction
The Basics of Bonsai Care
Bonsai trees are a beautiful and unique addition to any home or garden. These miniature trees require special care to thrive, but with the right techniques and knowledge, you can keep your Bonsai healthy and beautiful for many years to come. Here are some tips and tricks to help you care for your Bonsai.
01 - Watering
Watering your Bonsai is one of, if not the most important part of taking care of your tree. It is crucial for the health of your Bonsai tree, as it ensures that the tree receives the necessary nutrients and hydration for growth.
With watering your Bonsai tree, try to not water your tree on fixed days routinely, but rather water your Bonsai tree thoroughly when the soil feels slightly dry to the touch. It is extremely important that you make sure the water reaches the roots and drains out of the pot completely. The ceramic pot has special holes at the bottom for this purpose.
Avoid letting the soil become too dry or too wet for prolonged periods of time.
A good way to ensure that your Bonsai has received a sufficient amount of water is to submerge the entire pot once every 5 to 7 days.
Fill up for instance your sink with water, and submerge the entire pot until the stem of the tree. Keep the pot completely under water for around 30 seconds to 1 minute. Thereafter take the pot out of the sink, and let the excess water drain for a bit.
The most important part of the Bonsai that needs water is the root system, which is situated in the bottom of the pot. Due to the holes in the ceramic, the entire Bonsai soil will get wet properly. This method will give you the “peace of mind” that your Bonsai has received enough water for around 5 to 7 days.
Please do keep in mind that this method might need to be exercised more often in the winter that the summer. Moreover, different factors such as when your tree is placed above a heating system can also play a role in the frequency required to do this.
02 - Lighting
Next to watering your Bonsai, lighting is one of the most critical factors to consider when taking care of a Bonsai tree. The amount and quality of light can affect the tree’s growth, health, and overall appearance.
In order for your Bonsai tree to thrive, it is crucial that you find the right spot where you will place your Bonsai tree.
At least a few hours per day your Bonsai should receive direct sunlight. Hence, try to place your tree as close to a window as possible. A window frame for instance would be a good spot.
03 - Temperature
Watering your Bonsai is one of, if not the most important part of taking care of your tree. It is crucial for the health of your Bonsai tree, as it ensures that the tree receives the necessary nutrients and hydration for growth.
Bonsai trees are temperate plants that require moderate temperatures to thrive. Try to place your tree in a place where the tree enjoys a constant temperature. The ideal temperature range for most Bonsai trees is 15 to 24 degrees Celsius.
Bonsai trees require moderate to high humidity levels to maintain healthy growth. Ideally, the humidity level should be between 40% to 60%. However, indoor environments can be dry, especially during the winter months when the heating system is on.
You can also use a humidifier or mist the leaves regularly to increase the humidity level. However, be careful not to overwater the tree, as excess moisture can cause root rot.
04 - Fertilization
Fertilizing is an essential aspect of caring for a Bonsai tree. A well-balanced fertilizer can provide the necessary nutrients to the tree, promote healthy growth, and improve the tree’s overall appearance.
1. Fertilizing Schedule: The fertilizing schedule for a Bonsai tree can vary depending on the species and the time of year. Typically, Bonsai trees require fertilizing every two weeks during the growing season, which is from early spring to late summer. During the fall and winter months, you should reduce the frequency of fertilization to once a month.
2. Application: When applying fertilizer, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. For liquid fertilizers, you can dilute the fertilizer in water and apply it to the soil around the tree. For granular fertilizers, sprinkle the fertilizer on the soil surface and water the tree afterward to help the nutrients reach the roots.
The special Bonsai fertilizer on our website will provide your tree with the right amount of nutrients required. Moreover, on the label there is a clear description helping you to know how to exactly dilute the fertilizer with water.
A good way to ensure that your Bonsai has received a sufficient amount of water is to submerge the entire pot once every 5 to 7 days.
Fill up for instance your sink with water, and submerge the entire pot until the stem of the tree. Keep the pot completely under water for around 30 seconds to 1 minute. Thereafter take the pot out of the sink, and let the excess water drain for a bit.
The most important part of the Bonsai that needs water is the root system, which is situated in the bottom of the pot. Due to the holes in the ceramic, the entire Bonsai soil will get wet properly. This method will give you the “peace of mind” that your Bonsai has received enough water for around 5 to 7 days.
Please do keep in mind that this method might need to be exercised more often in the winter that the summer. Moreover, different factors such as when your tree is placed above a heating system can also play a role in the frequency required to do this.
05 - Pruning
Pruning is an essential part of Bonsai care. Regular pruning helps maintain the tree’s shape and encourages new growth. Use sharp, clean pruning shears to trim back new growth to the desired length. Remove any dead or damaged branches or leaves as soon as you notice them.
06 - Repotting
After receiving your new tree, we have made sure you will not have to repot tree for the next two to three years. Thereafter, to prevent root binding and promote healthy growth, Repot the tree in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil mix. During the repotting process, carefully trim any damaged roots to promote new growth.