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.
PLACEMENT
A bonsai is a living miniature tree & not a house plant; therefore, your bonsai must be maintained in a cool/cold environment durning 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. 1.- 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 win and sun, but not rain or snow. 2.-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 place outside, such as on a patio, balcony, terrace, or in a garden. Once outside, your bonsai should be positioned where it will recieve sufficient sun-morning sun and afternoon shade is best. 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, ad the atmosphere is detrimental to the health of your tree.
WATERING
The watering of your bonsai must never be neglected. Apply water when the soil appers 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.
FERTILIZING
Fertilizing is also necessary if your bonsai is to remain healthy and beautiful. Since your bonsai is growing in such a small amount of soil it is necessary to replenish the soil's supply of nutrients periodically. Any general-purpose liquid fertilizer will do fine and is available at most garden centers.
TRAINING
This brief explanation of basic care does not cover training. Training deals with the art of bonsai and should be thoroughly understood before undertaking - or left to a professional. However, most of the true bonsai trees you find have already been through their training period, thus requiring only periodic trimming and pinching to remain miniature.
TRIMMING & PINCHING
Trimming and Pinching keep your tree miniature. Pinch & trim back the new growth to the fartest safe point. Never should all of the new growth be removed. A little should be left to sustain the health of the tree.
REPOTTING
Repotting must be performed periodically on all bonsai when their root system has filled the pot. The reasons for repotting are to supply your tree with fresh soil, and to encourage a more compact root system. While evergreens only need to be repotted every four or five years. Since trees grow at different rates, this schedule will not always hold true, therefore, you should examine your tree's root system each year to determine if it has become pot-bound.
INSECTS & DISEASES
Since your bonsai is a normal tree, only miniature, it can be treated for insects and diseases the same as any other tree.
