Bonsai Care

Bonsai live outdoors, need frequent watering, fertilization & sunlight

Let us help you by sharing our bonsai care knowledge.  With us by your side, you will learn proper styling techniques from Steve & staff or workshops.  You can bring your trees to us for pruning/trimming, re-potting, creating Jin & Shari (deadwood) or wiring.  Just drop them off or make an appointment and stay to watch and learn.  We can also discuss tree health issues and remind you of daily and seasonal care.  We offer Bonsai care while you are away on vacation or business year round for a fee.

Bonsai Care

All trees should live outdoors year-round, except tropicals. Most need direct sunlight, as well as protection from strong winds. However, you can and should let the rain and breezes clean your tree.

Watering
The soil should never become completely dry but should not remain soggy or soaking in water. Daily watering in the summer is a must, and several times a week during the winter season.  Water the entire soil surface thoroughly until it runs freely from the drain holes at the bottom of the pot. You should notice how the water soaks the soil and then repeat this procedure at least two more times. You can water the tree in your kitchen sink, outside with a hose, or using a watering can with a fine spray. If you are concerned your tree has dried out, soak it for 5-10 minutes in a tray of water.  Never let your tree roots dry out completely.  The 1000 hole watering nozzle we carry creates a wonderful cascading spray for gentle delivery of water to avoid washing out soil.

Light

Trees can be harmed if they don’t receive enough light. Conifers, such as the Juniper and pines, need at least four to six hours of direct sunlight a day. Deciduous trees, such as maples and elms, need lots of sun and protection from the hot afternoon summer sun.

Fertilizer

Most bonsai need to be fed every two weeks during the spring and summer.  We recommended using a good organic fertilizer, such as liquid fish emulsion or other organics. We sell quality Japanese fertilizer cakes & nuggets as well as liquid fish to ensure you properly feed your tree.

The Living Art of Bonsai

Each bonsai is a unique piece of living art. You’ll want to learn more about shaping, wiring, and the timely repotting of your tree. You can attend one of our regularly scheduled classes, or schedule a private session to help maintain the size, shape, and health of your tree. Take advantage of our free 30-day health check-up, and we can show you how to maintain your tree and to watch for insects or disease.

Winter Care in the South

Special attention should be given from October through April. Bonsai plants remain outside during the winter except tropicals. As a safegaurd, when the temperature dips below 29 degrees, place your pot on the ground and mulch it well with hay or straw. If you have small trees or only a few bonsai, they may be brought indoors for a night or two, or to an unheated area that remains cold, such as a garage, then placed outside again so they don’t wake up too early. Check for water needs every two to three days, and always water before a freeze.  Deciduous trees will lose their leaves in the winter and tropicals must be protected from the cold.

Tropical Bonsai

Tropical trees need indoor protection at temperatures of approximately 55 degrees (depending upon species). Be sure they are exposed to sunlight in a window facing south or west, and/or use a grow light or LED. Mist the foliage and check the soil daily to water as needed, typically 2-3 times a week, depending upon species and indoor conditions. Avoid air vent blowing on trees.