1. How often should I water my bonsai tree?
Bonsai trees use a "free draining" type of soil because their roots cannot tolerate "wet feet". You can get to know when your bonsai tree needs to be watered by observing the foliage, testing the soil with you index finger just below the surface, or just by the weight of the pot. We recommend an inexpensive moisture meter which works very much like a thermometer. Insert it into the soil and the movement of the needle will tell you if it is time to water.
2.How often should I fertilize my bonsai tree?
As a general rule, a small amount of feed is given in the spring and a larger amount in the fall. Feed for bonsai trees should contain three principle ingredients; nitrogen, phosphoric acid, and potash. It is also a good idea to use a fertilizer containing "chelated" iron. Water before fertilizing your bonsai tree and then apply at half the strength recommended by the brand's manufacturer.
3.How often should I mist my bonsai tree?
Misting the bonsai tree is only beneficial for a short time, so what we recommend is to place the bonsai tree on a humidity tray and add water to the tray. As the water in the tray evaporates it creates a humid environment.
4. How much sunlight is required for my bonsai tree?
Sunlight, expecially the ultra-violet ray, affects the growth of bonsai trees. Therefore, except in special cases such as immediately after repotting, extensive trimming, etc, bonsai trees should be placed in a sunny location. Bright light will also work well but the bonsai tree should not be placed more than 12" away from the direct light source. An east, west or southern exposure works best. A northern exposure will require the use of "grow lights" which should remain on up to 16 hours each day and the lamp should not be more than 2 inches from the top of the bonsai tree.
5. How is miniaturizing a bonsai tree possible?
No one single technique is adequate to make a bonsai tree small. The fact that the tree is grown in a container, the trimming, pruning, repotting and other care given the bonsai tree --all contribute to the final result of limited growth. Dwarf trees are often found in a natural environment, but in bonsai trees this environment is provided artificially. Bonsai trees are grown in shallow containers the size of which determines the amount of soil the roots are able to grow in. This environment definitely restricts the growth of the roots and its functions.
6.How do I trim and prune my bonsai tree?
The main objective of trimming and pruning is to shape the bonsai tree into the desired form and to reduce growth above ground in order to maintain a balance with root growth. The process of shaping begins when the bonsai tree is very young and is on-going as it continues its growth. Trimming is accomplished by using a sharp scissors or shears. This traditional tool is called butterfly shears or bonsai shears and is used for removing foliage and light branches. Some trees such as the Juniper should be trimmed by using the thumb and index finger to remove new growth and to prevent browning and a "sheared" appearance.
7.How do I prevent diseases and insects from infecting my bonsai tree?
As living trees, bonsai are susceptible to insect attacks and disease. Preventive and corrective measures include (a) keeping your bonsai tree in good health, since insects and bacteria tend to attack weak trees, (b) giving your bonsai tree ample light, fresh air and ventilation, (c) keeping the soil free of spent blooms nd fallen leaves etc. You may also use an insceticidal soap spray which is not harmful to humans or animals. This soap derivative, however, may require more than one appliction to control the insect population. It's also a good idea to use this spray weekly to prevent any attacks.
8. How do I train my bonsai tree?
Wiring, a relatively modern method of training bonsai trunks and branches into the desired forms, has become commonly accepted. Copper wire that has first been annealed in a low-temperature fire is preferred. After it has cooled, it is wrapped around the branches in the direction the branch is to be bent. The branch should be bent once into its final position so as not to harm the cambium layer under the bark. The wire should be wrapped taut, but not too tight, and should be removed just before it bites into the branch - between 6 and 12 months. The wire is removed with a bonsai tree wire cutter by snipping the wire at each turn, therby allowing the cut pieces to fall to the ground. Never unwind the wire or use pliers to cut the wire, since this will damage the branches.
9. What is bonsai soil and why is it used for bonsai trees?
Potting soil and top soil are heavy soils that can remain wet for weeks. Bonsai soil is a mixture of ingredients which allows the water to drain freely and at the same time, retain moisture. In addition, the ingredients allow the roots to breathe air and prevent compaction. There are two basic type of bonsai soil - a conifer mix and a tropical/sub/tripical mix. Before adding any soil mixture, be sure to cover the drainage hole(s) with screening to prevent the soil from washing out of the pot. When re-potting, it is always best to use the soil mixture in its dry state.
10. How often should I re-pot my bonsai tree?
All potted plants will eventually outgrow their containers. While houseplants need to be "up-potted", that is placed in larger and larger containers, we maintain the miniaturization of a bonsai tree by keeping the roots confined to the small container. On average, repotting will be necessary every 3-5 years, but the tree should be removed from its container and its root system inspected once a year. If the roots forms circular ball around the perimeter of the pot, it is time to trim the roots and repot. When repotting remember to (a) use only bonsai soil (b) remove air pockets by working the soil down through the roots (c) do not remove more than 20% of the root system (d) repot during the appropriate repotting season (e) water well and keep out of the sun for a week or two.
11. Outdoor Trees
A bonsai is a living miniature tree and not a house plant; therefore, your bonsai must be maintained in a cool/cold environment during the winter season. As a guide, around Thanksgiving Day it is time to prepare your bonsai for its winter dormancy period which should last approximately three (3) months. This can be accomplished in several ways. One method is to bury your tree in the ground (preferably without the pot) up to the rim of the container and then mulch up to the first branch. It is best to choose a location that is protected from wind and sun, but not rain or snow. A second method which is also common is to place your tree(s) in an unheated garage or shed. During this time, your tree does not require light because it is in a dormant state; however, it will require watering approximately every two weeks. Throughout the spring, summer and fall your bonsai should be placed outside, such as on a patio, balcony, terrace, or in a garden. Once outside, your bonsai should be positioned where it will receive sufficient sun – morning sun and afternoon shade is best. A bonsai can be viewed best when it is placed approximately three to four feet high (eye level), such as on a table, wall or bench. A bonsai can and should be brought into the house on special occasions and displayed in a prominent place. Your bonsai should not remain inside for more than a few days at a time, as the atmosphere is detrimental to the health of your tree.
12. How To Take Proper Care Of your Indoor Bonsai Tree
Bonsai is the reproduction of natural tree forms in miniature. This art form has its origin in Japan and China where it has been practiced for centuries. Bonsai are grown in pots and are totally dependent on you for their care.
With proper care, your bonsai will remain healthy, beautiful and miniature for many years to come. Since your bonsai is a living miniature tree, it will increase in beauty as it matures through the years. The instructions below are just the basics and, therefore, I recommend that you purchase one of the many fine books available on the subject.
13. WATERING
The watering of your bonsai must never be neglected. Apply water when the soil appears dry -- never allow the soil to become completely dry. If your bonsai is receiving full sun, it may be necessary to water once a day. This schedule may vary with the size pot, type of soil and type of bonsai tree you own. Evaluate each tree's water requirements and adjust your watering schedule to accommodate it. It is a good idea to use a moisture meter until you get to know the requirements of your bonsai tree. Watering should be done with a watering can or hose attachment which should dispense the water in a soft enough manner as not to disturb the soil. Water should be applied until it begins running out of the holes in the bottom of your pot. A good rain is usually a sufficient watering.
14. HUMIDITY
During the cold months, when your bonsai is inside, we recommend placing it in a shallow tray filled with a layer of gravel with water added. This provides extra moisture around the tree as the water evaporates and reduces the amount of moisture lost to modern heating systems.
