Anyone who raises a bonsai from a native tree must pay attention to meticulous care. This forms the indispensable basis for a healthy tree and allows the bonsai to develop in all its glory.
Pruning is essential for bonsai trees
winter protection
Some form of winter protection is necessary for most bonsai. This varies from tree species to tree species and depends primarily on the harshness of the winters in your region. Outdoor bonsai must never be brought into heated rooms, as this will interrupt their hibernation and they will wilt. Instead, the trees must be protected from frost and wind, but should overwinter in maximum light. Often it is sufficient to isolate the pot and roots, for example by burying the pot in the ground or in a bed of pine needles or similar material. A well-ventilated greenhouse or a cold conservatory are also good options for overwintering.
pour
Bonsai die more often from improper watering than any other reason. Because of the relatively shallow pots for bonsai, the roots dry out much faster than outdoors. Normally it needs to be watered daily in spring, summer and winter. In winter, the watering is reduced because the trees also have a much lower water requirement during the dormant period. The earth must not dry out.
Fertilize
Bonsai can only develop with regular fertilization. Give preference to organic fertilizer, which is available in powder, granules, small chunks, and balls. The granules in particular are recommended, mainly because they are easy to see on the ground, allowing you to tell when a new dose is due. Inorganic fertilizer works quickly, so it is difficult to assess how much has actually been absorbed by the plant.
repot
After a period of growth, the roots completely fill the tray. A normal potted plant would now be transplanted into a larger pot where it has more room for new root growth. The reason for repotting a bonsai is the same, only the method is different. After a root pruning creates new space for fresh soil and new root growth, the tree is planted back into the same pot.
To cut
The pruning of the bonsai preserves the existing shape and makes it possible to constantly improve and refine its shape. Finger plucking back and pruning the first shoot encourages a second shoot that grows closer to the twig or branch, which in turn results in bushier and fuller foliage.
tips
Bonsai can be obtained in many ways, such as by seed, propagation by cuttings, mossing, sinking or grafting.