Bonsai Care

Basic Bonsai Care of Growing Bonsai Tree is a relatively easy task; that is once you are armed with the proper knowledge.
Most people are introduced to bonsai by of garden nurseries, home repair places, or just plain road side vendors. Having been personally exposed to these places, I can say that I have never really met anyone there that could tell you the proper way to care for the plant.

First of all you must understand, contrary to what some people might tell you, there is no such thing as an indoor plant. God never made an indoor plant, all plants are outside plants. This is not to say that some plants will not survive and thrive inside, but only under the proper conditions. My focus here will be on truly outside plants. Learn more.

Before we actually begin, understand that everything written here must be justified with YOUR climate and the growing conditions of your plant. Check the USDA Hardiness Zone chart to determine where you are.

Water is a must, but how much? On an average, with plants that are in 60% or more of sunlight during the growing season, once a day watering is sufficient. Soil, (which we will discuss later) has a great bearing on the frequency and to a certain degree, amount of water given. If you are new to bonsai, or don't understand the watering needs of your plant, use these guidelines: (*Note: I do not recommend a moisture meter because of the coarseness of most bonsai soil. Moisture meters rely on compactness of the soil, something you never want in bonsai. We will discuss soil later on.)

Ok, now we know when, but how much? The Japanese believe in three separate waterings, one for the bottom, one for the middle, and one for the top. Believe it or not, but watering is an art. Sound a little strange? Yes, but wait until you have bought your 30th bonsai and then decide whether or not you still don't believe. You will quickly learn that you simply can't pour water on them and hope for the best. Believe me, this all comes with experience, or as some would say, "trial and error".
Now you don't have to be so precise as the Japanese, but I do recommend slowly watering until it comes out the bottom, then waiting a few minutes and watering again. Wait a few more minutes and try the "pencil" test from above. What you are trying to achieve is unilateral consistent moisture in the pot. Some trees really thrive on having their leaves misted, especially in the hotter times of the year. Early morning or early evening is preferred, even though some people mist through out the day.

I usually recommend that a person know what they are in store for before they purchase a particular plant. Not afterwards. Unless you have several years experience, learning on a plant as you go is almost a death sentence. One last note before we move on. Above all, don't bring the plant into the house just because "it looks good on the table". A day inside is ok, but not as a permanent fixture.

Whatever you need to know - you will be sure to find it here - at The Bonsai Home.

Japanese Maple (acer palmatum)

Bonsai Care