5 Tips For Caring For Your Bonsai Tree 

Bonsai Care Tips

There has been a lot written on the concept that caring for a bonsai tree requires lots of patience and caring. And while that statement may be true, your bonsai tree also needs other things to thrive. Just as a child needs a combination of love, caring and nurturing so does your bonsai. But unlike raising a child where there are really no guidelines or tips, there are 5 simple tips that will help you grow your tree.

Tip#1. As we all know, water is an essential component of the survivability of most living things. Your bonsai is no exception. The bonsai tree requires water to survive, however too much or too little water can be detrimental to the health of the bonsai tree. There is no set formula for predicting the amount or the frequency of the water demands of the bonsai, factors such as the size of the bonsai, the size and depth of the pot, the actual bonsai specimen, your environment, and finally where your bonsai is grown, indoors or outside.

The bonsai tree requires enough water to keep the soil moist, not wet. To determine the watering requirements of your tree, test the soil regularly for moisture content, instead of just watering.

Tip #2 Light, preferably natural sunlight is a source of energy that your bonsai tree needs to grow. All plants prosper from exposure to sunlight. If you're unable to provide sufficient amounts of natural sunlight for your bonsai because of environmental conditions, then it is suggested that you augment the sunlight with an indoor light designed for this purpose. A florescent fixture equipped with a gro lux bulb will benefit your plant's growth. Another consideration would be to add a very slow turning turntable, that would rotate your plant so each side got consistent lighting.

Tip #3 Humidity is another consideration. If you live in an arid environment, your bonsai can suffer unless you supplement the humidity available to the tree. It is suggested that you place your bonsai in a Humidity tray, the small amount of water in the bottom of the tray creates humidity that the tree can absorb. Decorative rocks or pebbles should be added to the humidity tray for the pot to sit on. Be sure the water level is not high enough that the pot can wick it up or your bonsai will suffer from over watering.

Tip #4 Bonsai trees should be grown in bonsai pots only. These are shallow pots, specifically created for the needs of the Bonsai. These pots will have holes for drainage and training wires. Do not use standard pots for the bonsai, these are too deep.

Tip#5 There is some confusion on the importance of fertilizer for your bonsai. Fertilizer is a strong requirement for the health of your bonsai. Select quality products from known suppliers, check with a reputable grower in your area for fertilizers that are tailored to your growing environment. It is advisable that you always water your bonsai tree prior to fertilizing.

Lastly, don't risk the health of your bonsai. If you have questions about the care and feeding of your bonsai contact a reputable source for advice.

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 By Justin Lee