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A bonsai tree is no substitute for a tree in the garden, but it looks very pretty if you care for it properly. There are a few things to keep in mind when caring for bonsai, as the small trees are not entirely undemanding. You can find out exactly what you should pay attention to in this article.
The optimal location of a bonsai tree
Bonsai trees can grow very old, provided you give them the right care. This begins with the choice of location. Bonsais are also quite demanding in this respect.
- A bonsai needs a lot of light; therefore, a window place is the optimal location. However, in summer you must make sure that your bonsai does not get too much sun. You can remedy this with a translucent blind if necessary.
- In winter, on the other hand, there is not enough natural daylight for the plant. You compensate for the light deficit with a plant lamp.
- Especially in cold weather, you should move the bonsai away from the window when you open it.
- Tropical bonsai thrive best at a temperature of around 20 degrees. It may be a little cooler at night. Unlike subtropical bonsais, these bonsai species do not require winter dormancy.
- If you have a subtropical bonsai, give the plant a winter rest during the cold season. To do this, place it in a cool room where the temperature is about 10 degrees. During this time, water the plant only very moderately and wait until spring before fertilising it.
- Bonsai trees prefer high humidity. If you place some nice stones around your bonsai and moisten them regularly, you will kill two birds with one stone: you will provide higher humidity and great styling.
- Wetting the leaves with water from time to time is also helpful. On hot days, however, you have to be careful with this and only spray the leaves with water early in the morning or late in the evening.
Care of the bonsai tree
When watering the bonsai tree, you also need to take care of a few things.
- Water the bonsai very carefully, as waterlogging forms very quickly in the mainly shallow bonsai bowls. The plants do not tolerate this. Special bonsai soil containing lava granules, among other things, is available from specialist shops. Alternatively, mix in a little granulate.
- Since relatively little soil fits into the shallow bonsai bowls, fertilise your bonsai every three to four weeks. You can get special bonsai fertiliser from specialist shops.
- Repot the small trees usually every two years. Take the opportunity to cut back the roots and remove taproots. As with most other plants, spring is the best time to do this.
- Spring is also always a good time to prune the bonsai back into the desired shape.
