How to Care for Japanese Bonsai Trees

Although bonsai trees were first developed in China between 206 B.C. and 220 A.D. during the Han Dynasty, it was the Japanese who made them popular. Many different species of trees can be grown as bonsai trees. The primary things that set bonsai trees apart from other types of trees is that they are grown in shallow pots, are often very small, and are artistically shaped and pruned.

Provide Good Drainage and Water Bonsai Trees with Care

Bonsai trees are more prone to root rot than many other types of trees, so it is important to plant bonsai trees in a pot with good drainage holes and in well-draining soil. Though care differs from one type of bonsai tree to another, most bonsai trees should be watered when the soil is dry to the touch. Bonsai trees should not be overwatered.

It’s great to place a bonsai tree in a sink or tub of water, with the water level just covering the top of the soil. Submersion for 10 – 15 minutes is sufficient for the soil and roots to soak up the water. The tree should then be removed from the water and be allowed to drain well.

Bonsai trees that require more water than others can be misted with water in a spray bottle. For a special treat, a bonsai tree can be placed in the shower every now and then to simulate a rain shower. Tepid water should be used when watering bonsai trees.

Pruning and Trimming of Bonsai Trees

Bonsai trees should be trimmed in the dormant season. Each bonsai tree takes on a different form that is determined by the way the specific tree grows and by the design and skill of the gardener. Most bonsai enthusiasts remove the bottom third portion of branches in the front so that the beauty of the front of the trunk can be seen. Most choose to trim bonsai branches that are directly opposite each other in equal lengths.

Adequate Sun

As is true with all living things, bonsai trees need sunlight in order to grow. Bonsai trees grown indoors should be placed near a sunny window, where the sunlight is unobstructed by trees or other things such as buildings. The trees may need to be rotated occasionally in order to provide equal sun exposure to all parts of the tree. On occasion, during mild temperatures, bonsai trees may be placed outside in order to enjoy direct sunlight and rain.

Bonsai trees require more care than many other types of plants, but with a bit of patience and practice, most any gardener can successfully grow a bonsai tree he can be proud to show off to others. Proper watering and soil drainage, pruning and shaping, and adequate sun all increase the odds of successful bonsai development.

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