Bonsai Trees


August 4, 2008

Caring For A Bonsai

Category: Bonsai Care, Bonsai Trees, Pruning, Watering, Wiring, repotting – mybonsai – 1:49 am

There are several causes why bonsai go into permanent dormancy, but most bonsai are lost because of inappropriate watering techniques. The proper bonsai care does not really require your 24 attention, but it does necessitate some real understanding of the bonsai plant.

Watering is known to be the most important aspect in bonsai care. However, watering is a learned skill, and there is no one strict rule regarding it. Water requirements differ for each type of bonsai, the type of soil used for each, and the kind of pot each is in. There are other factors that may affect water requirement and the time that watering needs to be carried out such as moisture retention of the soil, weather conditions, size of the pot, and humidity. But even if water requirements are variable, it is still crucial that the tree does not totally dry out. You can check the soil’s dampness by inserting a chopstick or toothpick into it.

Pruning is another element of bonsai care. Although pruning is not necessarily done on a new bonsai plant, it is necessary for those who have achieved some growth. Pruning is the process of trimming the plant into a desired shape. Since trimming and pruning are expressions of art, there are really no definite shapes to follow. However, there are guidelines on how to properly carry out the act.

Not a lot of people know that lighting plays a vital role in bonsai care. Every living thing requires various amounts of sunlight to grow, so consider that when you choose a site for you bonsai. If there is too little sunlight in the area you have in mind, make sure that artificial light is available to suffice for it.

Generally, fertilization is not a huge requirement in bonsai care. The number of times you need to put fertilizer is based on the type of bonsai and potency of the fertilizer used. However, it is not advisable to fertilize a very dry and unhealthy bonsai.

Repotting has also an impact on bonsai care. This process is recommended done on a bonsai in order to give it a good root system and a fresh supply of soil. Most bonsai necessitate repotting after two years, although this also depends on the plant’s growth and the size of its pot.

The proper bonsai care is not that complicated. If you have real passion for the plant, it will all come out naturally.