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Flowering Bonsai Care

Watering

Watering is the most important part of looking after a bonsai. Different species need differing quantities of water. However, one rule of thumb is to follow the idea that the tree does not ever completely dry out. An easy way to test this is to insert a chop stick into the soil to assess the level of dampness. In general, the idea is that you need to water the trees when the surface soil appears dry.

It would be wise not follow an automatized schedule in watering bonsais. Evergreens in winter require watering just once in a week whereas in summer they need to be watered everyday. The watering should be complete specially because bonsai trees are grown in considerably less soil.

You can determine when your tree needs to be watered by using your sense organs - by observing the leaves, testing the soil just below the surface using your index finger, or simply by feeling how much the pot weighs - there will be a relative difference between a dry tree and a well-watered tree).

The process of assessing water-levels can be made more precise by using what is called a moisture meter. The way it works is very simple - the way the needle moves when you insert it into the soil will tell you if it is time to water.

Pruning

You don't need to prune a newly bought bonsai. The major goal of trimming and pruning is to shape the bonsai into an attractive form of your liking. A secondary goal is to cut down growth above ground so that there would be a balance between the growth above the surface and the growth below the surface, namely root growth.

The process of shaping begins when the tree is young. Trimming is carried out using sharp scissors or shears. This tool traditionally associated with bonsai trees is called butterfly shears or bonsai shears. The tool is used for removing leaves and light branches. The removal of heavier branches is accomplished using a tool called the concave cutter. The advantage of using a concave cutter is that it allows you to remove branches of all sizes without leaving any visible scars.

Sunlight

Sunlight is indispensable for the growth of trees. Bonsai is ideally placed in a location where there is a lot of sunlight. In certain circumstances such as the time immediately following repotting and after extensive trimming, it is advised not to expose the plant to much sunlight.

Soil

Potted trees do not grow well in soil that is always wet. Potting soil and top soil are heavy, and as a result, they can remain wet for weeks. Bonsai soil is unique because it allows the water to drain freely and at the same time, retain moisture. Additionally, the ingredients allow the roots to breathe air and prevent getting compacted.

Two basic types of bonsai soil are a conifer mix and a tropical/subtropical mix. Before attempting to add soil mixtures, block the drainage holes to make sure that the soil is not lost. Use the soil mixture in its dry state while repotting.

Fertilization

The for bonsai should necessarily consist of three principal components - nitrogen, phosphorus, and potash (NPK). A fertilizer called 'cheated iron' and a vitamin supplement are found to be really good for the bonsai's growth.