Bonsai trees are miniature living sculptures that have been carefully cultivated and trained through pruning roots and branches and then fastening them together with wire. It’s an art form that can last for many years.
Bonsai is derived from the Japanese words ‘bon’ and’sai’, meaning’small’ and’shaped’. Though this tradition originated in China, it has been further developed and popularized by the Japanese.
How to care for a bonsai
Bonsai trees require special care to stay healthy and content. This is because they are planted in small pots with limited space for water and nutrient reserves, plus regular pruning and wiring to maintain their captivating shape and size.
Bonsai trees offer a natural, relaxing ambience to any home or garden and make for an eye-catching feature outside. While they require minimal upkeep, there are a few things you should be aware of before beginning care.
First, decide where to place your Bonsai. Most experts recommend placing them near a south facing window where they will receive plenty of direct sunlight. However, if you have multiple windows, consider placing your Bonsai on an upper shelf where it can receive some indirect light.
You can increase the humidity near your Bonsai by using a humidity tray or misting it several times daily. Alternatively, open a window to circulate air around the tree.
Repotting your Bonsai every one to two years can help prevent it from becoming pot-bound and starving to death. Doing this gives the roots more room, while providing them with necessary nutrients for growth and flourishing.
If you are new to Bonsai, taking a class is recommended to gain more insight into the art of caring for your plant. Classes may be available at local botanical gardens and nurseries.
Another helpful resource is Bonsai Empire, an online community of plant and Bonsai enthusiasts. Here you can connect with others who share your interest and learn from them at your own pace!
The Ficus carmona is the most common indoor Bonsai species, but other species can also be kept successfully indoors. Popular examples include Dwarf jade, Fukien tea (Carmona) and Hawaiian umbrella (Schefflera).
When watering your Bonsai, be sure not to let the soil dry out completely. Check for moisture by dipping your fingers into the soil; if not, then watering is necessary.
Choosing a tree
No matter if you’re just starting out or an experienced bonsai expert, selecting the perfect tree is essential in creating your masterpiece. There are numerous types of trees to choose from and each requires slightly different care and upkeep.
When purchasing trees for your yard, always opt for one that’s in optimal health. Avoid purchasing an unhealthy plant that will die soon after being brought home. Furthermore, try to select a variety native to your region.
A healthy tree should have a smooth trunk and vibrant foliage. This makes it easier to envision it in classic bonsai shape, creating an eye-catching scene.
When buying a bonsai tree, size should be taken into account. Make sure the tree is large enough to fill space but not so big that it overwhelms the room. Depending on your budget and available space, you may have to opt for a smaller tree.
If you’re just starting out in bonsai, choosing a smaller tree will allow you to practice your techniques and gain confidence. Doing this can give you an immense sense of accomplishment as well as help develop your skills further.
Junipers are an ideal choice for beginners, as they’re relatively straightforward to grow and come in various sizes. Additionally, their versatility makes them suitable for use in almost any style of bonsai design.
Before purchasing a bonsai tree, take the time to decide where it will reside and how much care it requires. If you plan on keeping the bonsai indoors on your windowsill, select another species than if it will be displayed outdoors in your backyard.
When selecting a pot for your tree, it’s essential to choose one that complements its characteristics. For instance, if your tree has an impressive trunk, wide branches and deep-rooted roots, select a pot which accentuates these features.
When selecting a container for your bonsai tree, color should also be taken into consideration. Generally, use colors that complement the foliage or flowers on your tree; avoid mixing up colors that are close together on the color wheel as this could create visual disorientation for viewers.
Choosing a pot
When selecting a pot for your bonsai tree, its appearance and size should match. Furthermore, make sure the pot complements the style you intend to create with this delicate arrangement.
Selecting a pot that complements the colors in the tree will draw attention and make it more eye-catching. This is especially crucial when styling small (mame-sized) trees, where warm or cool shades may be used to draw attention to tiny details in bark or leaves.
For larger trees, contrasting colours can be used to enhance their aesthetic appeal. Darker shades work best with darker tones in a tree while lighter hues complement brighter tones.
Another consideration when choosing a tree is texture. Smooth clay finishes can emphasize the feminine features of certain species while rougher textures bring out strength and wildness in more masculine species.
When selecting a pot for your bonsai tree, the material can make a big difference in appearance. From mass-produced plastic containers to more costly clay and porcelain varieties, there’s something for everyone when it comes to pricing: while plastic containers may be economical, they often release toxins at high temperatures and retain more water than other materials do, increasing the risk of root rot.
Wooden bonsai pots are often more convenient and cost-effective than terracotta, however they lack durability compared to ceramic or clay pots. Over time, wooden bonsai pots may crack or warp, causing root damage.
When planting your bonsai tree, its pot should be at least as deep as its trunk. This ensures that soil can expand and contract naturally with growth as your tree matures.
For smaller trees, you can use a shallower pot to encourage more root development. However, if your tree has an especially thick trunk, then you may need to purchase a deeper pot.
If you are uncertain which pot is best for your tree, ask a local nursery or pottery shop for guidance. If possible, take photos of your bonsai to share with them so they can accurately assess which pot will suit it best.
Repotting
Repotting is one of the most essential steps in caring for your bonsai trees exeter. Repotting allows your bonsai to move from unfertilized soil into fresh, nutrient-rich ground that it can truly thrive in.
Repotting your bonsai at the appropriate time of year can yield great results. For instance, if you have a ficus in your garden that usually does not get watered during summer months, then repot it when that period has ended. Subtropical species like Chinese elm or pepper trees should also be repotted in spring when new growth starts.
When repotting your bonsai tree, be sure to select a pot large enough for its current size. It’s also wise to use one with drainage holes so water can drain out properly. In addition, you will need some potting soil, plastic mesh to cover any drainage holes, and wires for securely attaching the roots of your bonsai tree.
Once you have all of the necessary equipment for repotting, it’s time to get started. First, remove your bonsai from its current pot and examine its roots. If they appear tangled or unhealthy, you may need to cut some off. Additionally, look for any rotting roots.
Next, fill the pot until it is approximately half full with your chosen potting mix. Be sure to press it firmly into place so that all of the soil has been packed into the spaces between roots.
You can add some gravel or sand to the bottom of a pot for additional drainage and moisture retention. However, if you don’t want to do this, a shallow layer of soil will suffice.
After repotting, your bonsai should be placed in a bright but sheltered location to recover. This is especially important if working on an indoor bonsai.
To avoid transplant shock in your bonsai, wait two or three weeks before fertilizing it after repotting. This will give the plant time to recuperate from being re-potted and get back into its regular rhythm.