For effective Bonsai growth it is very important to learn the steps to proper Bonsai tree care. It is important to learn the right amount and frequency of watering. Soil composition must suit the type of Bonsai tree you have chosen. The correct pot must be chosen to provide an overall “oneness” with the tree and pruning must be performed with care and thoughtful planning.

Water

The fundamental aspect to Bonsai tree care is proper watering. The majority of Bonsai trees will die due to dehydration. Water helps the roots to flourish and grow. Watering also carries essential nutrients to your plant and washes out excess salt and spent gasses. Because there is such a small amount of soil you will need to water your Bonsai in small amounts frequently. Do not use a hose as the pressure of the water can dislodge and displace the soil. Instead, use a watering can or a hose with a spray nozzle.

The Bonsai tree itself also needs water, not just the soil. The water will wash off the leaves and keep them dust and dirt free. So once a week you will want to immerse your Bonsai in water. Do not remove your Bonsai tree until it stops bubbling.

Bonsai trees also prefer high humidity. You might want to place your tree in a shallow tray containing water. However keep the Bonsai out of this water by setting it on some type of stand or pedestal. If exposed to low humidity for a prolonged time they will die.

Be conscious of the plant, soil, and pot type you use. These factors will contribute to your watering frequency and cycle. Remember, as the Bonsai tree can perish due to lack of water, it can die as a result of over watering too.

There is an old Japanese rule that states, “water 3 times”. Water the first time so the pot gets wet. The second watering moistens the soil. Lastly the third time is for the roots.

Soil

When choosing soil for your Bonsai Tree make sure it will retain and absorb nutrients and water sufficiently to maintain your Bonsai plant. The soil should also drain well in case of over watering. This will prevent root rot.

Each Bonsai Tree has individual soil needs depending on the species. However a good rule of thumb is 70% humus & 30% grit for deciduous trees and tropical plants. Evergreen trees prefer 70% grit and 30% humus.

Commercial Bonsai soils are available at your local nursery, or you can choose to make your own soil. Try mixing clay & sand (the grit) with compost and peat moss (the humus). By using a soil sieve to sift your mixture it will eliminate some of the impurities thereby providing a purer Bonsai soil base.

Choosing the Right Pot

It is very important to choose the right size pot for your Bonsai Tree. A general rule of thumb is to choose a pot that is 2/3 as wide as the tree is high and ½ as deep as the height of your Bonsai.

Pruning

To be a true Bonsai, the tree must be shaped. Remove any branches that look unhealthy or interfere with your design plan. Next you want to prune after the new growth has appeared to keep the tree in line with your vision.

Use copper or aluminum wire to wrap the branches and shape your tree.

Keep your Bonsai out of direct sunlight after you first prune.

Other Growing Tips

When you first purchase a Bonsai tree do not be in a hurry to do everything to it at once: replant, prune, wire, and shape. This will send your tree in shock and it will most likely perish. Take your time and re-pot first. Keep you tree in indirect or low sunlight at this time. It may seem sickly for a little while, maybe up to 2 weeks. To help with shock purchase mycorhizal supplements.

These are available at most garden center. You will soon notice new shoots and a quicker drying soil. Your tree is on its way to a healthy and happy future! This is also a good time to fertilize.

For fertilizer there are plenty of chemically formulated concoctions you can purchase at your local nursery. Or you can try some organic fertilizers like manure tea, seaweed, or fish emulsion. Bonsai Trees like a combination of potash, nitrogen and phosphoric acid to be applied in the autumn and spring.

Because you have less soil and it is more porous, nutrients get leached out at a quicker pace. It is ok to fertilize more often.

Bonsai Trees do much better in direct sunlight. As a matter of fact your tree will grow faster and look healthier if you keep it outside. In addition many Bonsai tree varieties must be subject to the winter cold, as they need this time for resting.

Keep your Bonsai leaves clean of all dirt, dust and debris. In fact it is a good idea to brush them on a regular basis. I find a soft make-up blush brush works best.

Use tweezers to remove any weeds as soon as you see them. These growths can take nutrients away from your Bonsai. If you use moss at the base of your plant for decorative reasons keep it away from the trunk of your Bonsai.

Pests and Disease

Always be on the lookout for insects and other pests like aphids, spider mites, caterpillars or ants. Treat your tree with pesticides if insects appear.

Watch out for powdery mildew. It looks like white flour on your leaves. Rust is another disease that might appear. Rust looks like orange-brown spots on your leaves. This may be a sign you have high potassium levels in your soil.

Another disease that might affect your Bonsai is chlorosis. This is a result of iron deficiency. You will see yellowing leaves or needles while the veins will stay green. This is a result of high lime content in your soil. The best treatment is to repot your tree using new soil and a different compost.

Growing Bonsai can be a very rewarding hobby. However without the proper Bonsai tree care it can lead to frustration and the eventual demise of your tree. Proper watering, soil content, and pruning are vital to your tree’s health. If you have patience and a sculptor’s heart and creativity than this is the pastime for you!

Additional Resources

Would you like to learn more about Bonsai?  Well, check back here often.  Also check out my Growing Bonsai for the Visual Gardener site. 

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