Caring For Your Bonsai
Plant
By Rickie
Smith
Bonsai are trees and shrubs
that are grown uniquely small in containers. Originally it
was meant to bring art and nature together and was a
religious experience. Bonsai plants are not typically dwarfs
but are regular trees and shrubs which are grown small using
specific gardening techniques. The following are 6 tips for
caring for this wonderful plant.
1. Light
Bonsai need light to grow.
The type of plants will help you to decide the amount of
light needed. Usually flowering plants require more light
than conifers. Check for the lighting needs of your specific
bonsai plant. Natural light is generally best, so put your
bonsai in a spot that will receive plenty natural light.
During the winter months you will want to augment natural
light with artificial light. You can install a timer to
allow the optimal amount of light on the plants.
2. Humidity
The majority of bonsai
plants are tropical or sub-tropical. They are accustomed to
a humid atmosphere and have a tendency to grow best with
more humidity. In dry conditions the leaves and flowers may
shrink. You may also want to spray the leaves with a fine
mist to give additional humidity to the plant. Do not spray
it in direct sunlight. You can provide humidity to the
bonsai by placing the entire plant, including the pot, on a
gravel-filled container that you have moistened with water.
3. Temperature
Most bonsai are used to
mild temperatures and thrive best in these conditions.
Specific species of bonsai plants need different temperature
ranges. Research this when choosing your plants. Remember
that the temperature will be affected by the quantity of
light your bonsai gets.
4. Watering
The amount of water a
bonsai needs will differ throughout the year. This is
because the bonsai go through periods of growth and
non-growth periods. They generally require less water during
dormant periods and more water during their growth period.
Flowering plants need more water and food just before and
during the time it blossoms. Each type of bonsai plant have
varying water requirements which you should check when
buying your plants.
5. Pruning
Keeping them properly
pruned is a big part of the enjoyment of bonsai. Always use
sharp pruning shears when making the cuts. Be careful that
you do not prune too much. Envision the total shape and look
of the bonsai when you begin the pruning process. Thinning
is typically done to avoid thick shapes and is usually done
on the bottom third of the plant.
6. Repotting
Bonsai need to be repotted
frequently. The roots start to become entwined and impacted.
When the roots become too dense there generally is not
enough soil around the root system to keep it moist. The
bonsai will not continue to grow in these conditions. The
decision on how often to repot depends entirely on its
growth. Some bonsai grow faster than others so when you
decide to repot remove the plant and root from the ground.
Clip away any of the smaller root system and repot the plant
in a larger container.
About the
author:
Get ALL the information you need on Bonsai Plants by
visiting us at
All About Bonsai.
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more bonsai articles, click here -
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Enjoy!
I wish you all the best on your
bonsai adventure!
Best wishes,
Thomas T :)
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