How To Take Care of A Bonsai Tree
Posted by Enchanted Florist on 21st Sep 2015
- Bonsai are miniature live trees that have been carefully grown and trimmed to resemble full-sized trees, and are kept in special pots. Legend has it that bonsai were first created for a Chinese emperor who commanded that a miniature replica of his entire kingdom - trees, mountains, rivers, valleys - be build in his courtyard, so that he could look out his window and see his entire domain all at once. The art later spread to Japan, and eventually to the western world, especially after World War II.
- The most common type of bonsai - and many believe the most beautiful as well - is an evergreen tree, sometimes pine or spruce, but usually juniper. The care you must give includes the right amount of watering, humidity, sunlight, temperature, and fertilizing.
- Watering - this must be done when the soil is nearly, but not entirely, dry. You can submerge the pot in water or gently pour water into the pot, taking care not to pour too vigorously and displace the soil. Check your plants daily until you learn what schedule they require.
- Humidity - can be maintained by regularly misting the plant with water or by use of a tray filled with small stones under the planting pot. A little water in the tray on a regular basis will keep the environment around the plant moist.
- Sunlight - most trees like direct sunlight for part of the day, and they are invigorated by being placed outside during the summer. Depending on how much sun and fresh air a tree gets, you may need to water more often while they are outside.
- Temperature - trees generally prefer a warm environment, but some species need a dormant period during the winter (Dec-Feb) during which they should be kept in a cooler, darker environment. Watering should still happen during dormancy, but may be required as infrequently as every other week.
- Fertilizing - this is essential to replace the nutrients in soil. There are special bonsai fertilizers available, or you can use regular fertilizer - just follow the directions on the package and don't overdo it.
The shape of a bonsai is created by training the tree as it grows and matures, and by pinching and trimming the new growth as it appears on a mature plant. There are many good books available on this subject, and many cities have clubs for bonsai enthusiasts. If you would like to know more, please contact us.