General Care For Your Bonsai Tree

If you are a bonsai enthusiast, you know that caring for your bonsai tree is similar to caring and growing other plants. And here are some general guidelines for caring for your bonsai tree.

Lighting
Many don’t seem to realize or think that bonsai trees should be placed outside all year long. There are certain bonsai trees that could be kept indoors but most of them require sunlight to grow and should be placed outdoors where the sun can reach them. A minimum of 6 hours of sunlight is required for the outdoor bonsai types. Indoor bonsai types require two to four hours of either artificial or natural sunlight.

Watering
Trees and plants all die when they are dehydrated from lack of water, and a bonsai tree is no exception to that. It is important to water your bonsai to ensure it's growth. Different bonsai trees require different amounts of water to thrive so it is important to study your bonsai and find out specific guidelines and information on how to care for it.

Pruning
Pruning has two purposes in the care of bonsai trees. Pruning is used to shape and control the growth of the tree, as well as removing branches or leaves that obstruct the aesthetic design of the tree. Start off with light pruning and wait for two to three weeks before pruning more.

Fertilizing
Your bonsai should be fertilized at least once a month and you should only do so during the standard growing season. Use a water-soluble fertilizer and put it on when the soil is wet.

Re-potting
This is an important part of bonsai care. It is important to keep the roots and top of the tree balanced in equal proportions. Bonsai trees are supposed to be re-potted every two to three years. Trim the roots and one third of the root ball to keep the balance of the tree.

These are just the basic guidelines involved in the care of your bonsai tree. Be reminded though, that there are a great many varieties of bonsai tree types out there, and each type has specific and detailed guidelines and care set for them. So it is ideal to do some research and study first about your choice of bonsai tree before purchasing and growing one. Bonsai trees are easy to care for, and if you just follow the guidelines and instructions for their care, you will be rewarded with success in your bonsai tree endeavor.