Bonsai – The Blending of Art & Nature
The Word Bonsai means “Little Trees in Pots.” It is not commonly known but, the art of bonsai
originated in China and was later refined in Japan. The western world has adopted this art
form
and refined it to their lifestyles. Bonsai has become extremely popular and is recognized as an international art form.
Outdoor Bonsai
Outdoor bonsai are hardy plants that require seasonal change.
Conifers grow best in full sun. Pines and Junipers are very popular choices
and create very interesting bonsai plants.
Deciduous trees such as maple, elm and hornbeam, also broadleaf evergreens like azaleas and camellia, prefer morning sun and afternoon shade,
they do not like hot sun.
Patios, decks and balconies are great areas to display your bonsai during the growing season.
Outdoor bonsai can be displayed indoors, but only for short periods of time. You should never leave your bonsai inside for more than five days.
Watering Properly
Watering properly is a critical point to maintaining a healthy bonsai. Outdoor bonsai are
best watered according to the season. In the spring, summer and fall outdoor bonsai should be watered daily. In the winter
do not water as often just be sure the soil never dries out, to be safe check
your bonsai soil weekly.
Water your bonsai properly by using a watering can or hose attachment that has a
fine-spray nozzle. You should thoroughly soak your bonsai’s soil. Water should
be running out of the drain holes. Misting foliage periodically is recommended,
but do not consider this watering.
Indoor Bonsai
Indoor bonsai are tropical plants that are adaptable to indoor conditions. All indoor
bonsai grow best in sunny areas. For best results, place your indoor bonsai near windows facing southeast or west. If you do not have a place for your tree to receive adequate sunlight, we recommend using a grow light.
In the summer months indoor bonsai will flourish if grown outdoors on a patio or deck. The
bonsai will do best if placed where it receives morning sun and afternoon shade.
Return your bonsai indoors when night temperatures fall below 55 degrees. Treat
your bonsai like any other indoor tropical plant, never allow your it to
freeze.
Watering Properly
Watering properly is critical to maintaining a healthy bonsai. Indoor bonsai should normally be watered every two or three days. Never allow your bonsai to completely dry out.
Using humidity trays filled with decorative stones not only capture excess
water, it also creates needed humidity around your bonsai.
During the time your indoor bonsai is outdoors, it will require more frequent
watering. Thoroughly water your bonsai daily when it is outdoors.
Water your bonsai properly by using a watering can or hose attachment that has a fine-spray nozzle.
Thoroughly soak your bonsai’s soil, water should be running out of the drain holes.
Misting foliage periodically is recommended, but do not consider this watering.
General care is also important to maintaining a beautiful bonsai. Bonsai should be
periodically trimmed to keep the desired miniature shape. To best understand trimming and
wiring techniques, we recommend purchasing an instructional book.
Repotting
Your bonsai will need to be repotted every four to five years. It is necessary to repot your bonsai when its root system becomes pot bound. After receiving your new tree, always wait at least one growing season before repotting your bonsai to make sure it is well established.
We recommend you refer to a bonsai book for specific instructions.
Fertilizing
Fertilizing bonsai is required. Most water-soluble and time-released fertilizers work very well when used as directed.
Insects & Diseases
Insects and diseases can attack bonsai just like any other plant. Inspect your bonsai regularly. A brisk spraying of the trunk and foliage periodically will help keep your tree clean. If any problems appear, most garden centers have products available for treatment.
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