Bonsai tree care

Bonsai is a Japanese art.  The Japanese have raised bonsai trees for centuries.  Bonsais are not just a plant but a work of art.  They are simply gorgeous and each one is unique.  They are all individuals and there are no two alike.   Bonsais are an outdoor plant but for over 20 years they have been very popular as indoor plants.

Indoor bonsai

You will buy your perfect bonsai and bring it home.  You must remember it is a living plant and will grow and change.  Your bonsai could even die if you do not give it proper care.  You must keep your plant trimmed to keep its shape the same.

Your bonsai must have a lot of light.  If the plant does not get enough UV light it will soon die.  During the day the bonsai needs to be kept at 60 degrees or more and it needs to be kept humid.  The leaves must be sprayed with water on a daily basis.  Never put your bonsai in a dish of water as this will eventually cause the roots to rot.

You should repot your bonsai every couple of years and you must also trim the roots.  Some people recommend cutting off 1/3 to 2/3 from the tips.  It is best to repot your bonsai in the spring.  It is best if you use the same type of container like it came in but slightly larger.  Do not put your bonsai in a deep container.  You should fertilize your bonsai once a month.  Do not fertilize it during the winter.

You must prune your bonsai so it will keep its shape.  If you do not it will get shaggy looking and lose its desired shape. 

Indoor bonsais require more care than other houseplants.  You must keep your bonsai clean.  Do not leave the trimmings in the bowl after you prune.  If you do your bonsai could get fungal diseases.  Check you bonsai for insects.  Do not let moss grow on your bonsai or the soil.  Bonsais can get powdery mildew.  Your bonsai can also get orange or rust colored spots on its leaves which are called “rust.”  If your bonsai's leaves turn yellow it is a sign it is not getting enough iron.  Put your bonsai outside every few weeks for a short time.

Outdoor bonsai

Outdoor bonsais need different care depending on the season.  If you take proper care of your bonsai it will stay healthy, beautiful and small for many years.  A bonsai is a miniature tree.  At the end of November you must prepare your bonsai for the winter.  Your bonsai will go dormant for about 3 months.  You can place your tree in an unheated room for this time.  Your tree will not need light but it will need to be watered every two weeks.  In the spring, summer and fall keep your bonsai outside.  A patio, balcony or garden is a perfect place for your bonsai.  Put your bonsai where it will get morning sun and afternoon shade.

Water your bonsai when the soil appears dry.  If your bonsai gets full sun it should be watered everyday.  When you water your bonsai do not disturb the soil.  Mist you bonsai to maintain the humidity.  Your bonsai should be carefully pruned so it will maintain its shape.  It can also be repotted every couple of years.  You will also need to trim the roots before repotting.

 Bonsais are not small by nature.  They are dwarfed by trimming and being kept in small containers.  Take good care of your bonsai and it will stay beautiful and give you pleasure for many years.

Article sources:

http://www.bonsaigardner.org/caring-for-indoor-bonsai.html

http://www.bonsaigardner.org/

http://www.bonsaiexperience.com/OutdoorBonsaiCare.html