So you just got a new bonsai as a gift or a purchase.
What do you do now? First of all remember that it is not a house plant that is kept indoors all the time.
Some varieties, such as ficus, are able to grow in lower light conditions.
However you must remember that these are trees or shrubs and they do best outdoors.
Put them outdoors when the weather permits and bring them in to enjoy.
from time to time.
Watering is an essential thing to remember.
The roots on these beautiful little trees and shrubs are kinda thin and need a regular supply of water.
Water regularly but don't waterlog it.
You will be able to determine the right amount.
Sometimes on the hottest days you may have to water more often.
Fertilizing is quite important.
The details of when and how vary with each variety...
Remember that your bonsai is a work of art in progress.
The idea of bonsai is not to plop a plant on a table somewhere and forget about it.
Shape it in a way that pleases you.
Of course it takes time.
Look at it and determine how you would like it to grow.
Shape it by pruning branches, nipping buds and guiding the growth with wires.
Take a look at images of bonsai and get an idea of what would please you.
Keep an eye out for pests and diseases.
Proper care requires you to occasionally apply a good organic pest control product.
If your plant is looking a little unhealthy check for little critters, white fungal growth, decaying matter or any other types of growth on your plant.
Although you need not be concerned for a year or two, you will eventually want to remove the bonsai from its container and clean off the soil around the roots.
Then you will prune the roots back a fair amount.
This is what causes it remain small and manageable in a small container.
You can learn the details for doing this by researching further or checking back on this site for a future article I will write.
Then, of course you will need to repot with fresh soil.
Keep it loose so the roots can get all the water they need.
You may feel a little overwhelmed by all the care required, but it really is not very much.
It gives you the opportunity to interact with your tree instead of just losing it in the general environment of your home.
What do you do now? First of all remember that it is not a house plant that is kept indoors all the time.
Some varieties, such as ficus, are able to grow in lower light conditions.
However you must remember that these are trees or shrubs and they do best outdoors.
Put them outdoors when the weather permits and bring them in to enjoy.
from time to time.
Watering is an essential thing to remember.
The roots on these beautiful little trees and shrubs are kinda thin and need a regular supply of water.
Water regularly but don't waterlog it.
You will be able to determine the right amount.
Sometimes on the hottest days you may have to water more often.
Fertilizing is quite important.
The details of when and how vary with each variety...
Remember that your bonsai is a work of art in progress.
The idea of bonsai is not to plop a plant on a table somewhere and forget about it.
Shape it in a way that pleases you.
Of course it takes time.
Look at it and determine how you would like it to grow.
Shape it by pruning branches, nipping buds and guiding the growth with wires.
Take a look at images of bonsai and get an idea of what would please you.
Keep an eye out for pests and diseases.
Proper care requires you to occasionally apply a good organic pest control product.
If your plant is looking a little unhealthy check for little critters, white fungal growth, decaying matter or any other types of growth on your plant.
Although you need not be concerned for a year or two, you will eventually want to remove the bonsai from its container and clean off the soil around the roots.
Then you will prune the roots back a fair amount.
This is what causes it remain small and manageable in a small container.
You can learn the details for doing this by researching further or checking back on this site for a future article I will write.
Then, of course you will need to repot with fresh soil.
Keep it loose so the roots can get all the water they need.
You may feel a little overwhelmed by all the care required, but it really is not very much.
It gives you the opportunity to interact with your tree instead of just losing it in the general environment of your home.
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