How to Care for Your Bonsai Plants

Understand Your Plant and Its Environmental Requirements

Generally, bonsai plants can be made from any type of trees. Hence, how you grow and care for your plant depends, in a large part, on the specific species it originates from. For example, if your bonsai is made from a tropical tree, it will not fare well in cold temperatures and will need special care. It follows that your life will be a lot easier if you only pick up trees that will fare well in the specific environmental condition in your locality. Although they are mini-plants, their need to adjust to climate change is just like the regular-sized trees. In case you picked a special tree species, make sure you understand its specific caring needs.

Never Over-water or Under-water Your Bonsai

Dependent on its species, the soil type and the season, bonsai plants may have different watering needs. You will need to develop a watering plan just for your bonsai. As a general rule, bonsai plants should neither be over watered nor under watered. Check the top of the soil with your fingers and nails. Moist top soil would mean it still contains some water. Dry soil is a definite sign that you have to start watering. In some cases, bonsai owners water once a day in hot days and once every two days or so in cold days. This is not a hard and fast rule though. Your plant may have different water needs.

Grow Your Bonsai Outside

If you live in cold regions and you have a tropical bonsai, you may have to devise some semi-indoor protection for your bonsai plant. However, generally, bonsai should be grown outside. Despite their appearance, they are not ornamental indoor house fixtures. Bonsai plants need sufficient sunlight. Otherwise they will get sick and may even die. Usually, bonsai plants that are native to its place can always do well outside even in winter days. However, protection is needed in extremely harsh weather.

The above are just some bonsai caring tips for beginners. If you are enthusiastic about growing bonsai plants, you may feel the need for more in-depth knowledge, such as pruning, wiring, re-potting, etc.

Whether you are a beginner or seasoned grower of bonsai plants, you may like to visit us for more in-depth guides and resources on bonsai care. Our comprehensive free online guide will help you grow bonsai trees that are healthy and beautiful.