16.2.12

How To Take Care Of Your Bonsai Tree

By Claude Bethwood


The word bonsai translates to "tray growing" and is a method used to train trees. There are a variety of plants and flowers that can be grown as a bonsai. Ficus, azaleas, fruit trees and elm trees are some of the varieties that can be trained as a bonsai. Bonsai trees require time, patience and care. Plus, they have strict pruning and watering needs for those who tend to them. The tips below are instrumental to ensure your bonsai has a fruitful and long life.

Trees for the Novice

If you are just starting out, stick to a specific variety of tree that is perfect for beginners. The Japanese maple is an excellent species of tree to start with. A starter kit is also a great gift for someone who has shown an interest in bonsai trees. They contain a sapling, training wire, container, rocks, soil and instructions. It can be quite intimidating to purchase all the items separate, making the starter kit the easiest place to begin.



Watering

Bonsai trees must never be neglected, so it's important to make sure it has a sufficient amount of water. Apply water when the soil appears to be dry and soak it with a watering can. The water should gently run out of the bottom of the container. It's also important to tend to the leaves of tree and lightly mist them every two or three days. You may even want to look into getting a moisture meter until you have become accustomed to knowing the water requirements of your bonsai tree.

Placement

Place your bonsai tree in a well-lit area that faces south. The area should get at least four to six hours of sunlight per day and a temperature of at least 30 degrees. It may be necessary to use "grow lights" to keep your bonsai tree healthy and provide it with a sufficient amount of lighting.

Fertilize

Bonsai trees need to be fertilized to keep them healthy and beautiful. Most multi-purpose liquid fertilizers will provide the bonsai tree's soil supply with enough nutrients. It's recommended to use only half the strength and apply on a monthly basis. You can also spray a water-soluble fertilizer to the foliage of the bonsai tree.

Trimming and Pruning

Trim and prune your bonsai tree to keep it miniature and healthy. Pruning usually depends on the specific variety of tree and the type of shape you are looking for. Make sure you have the proper pruning tools on hand to get the type of results you are looking to achieve. The new growth should be pinched and trimmed back to the safest point. It's important to make sure there is sufficient new growth left to sustain a healthy tree. Since certain varieties of trees grow at various rates, you will need to evaluate your specific trees growth rate and prune it accordingly. The root area will also need to be pruned from time to time. Because the tree is in a pot, the roots may become too large for the tray and need to be trimmed back.




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