11 May 2009

Caring for Your Indoor Bonsai

Bonsai PlantImage by shotfinder via Flickr

by Kim Archer

Bonsai plants are the stunning result of an ancient practice. Because of their attractive appearance, lots of people like to have a bonsai plant in their homes. However, extra care is needed for indoor bonsai trees. This is largely due to the fact that they don't get the full range of benefits that sunlight and normal weather conditions provide. Perhaps they look like they can withstand anything. But certain types of bonsai are quite picky in their water and light requirements.

Watering Your Indoor Bonsai

When you bring a bonsai tree indoors it will require lighting to replace the natural sunlight that it would have been receiving beforehand. You will also need to monitor how often it is watered. Well ventilated surroundings will also keep your bonsai plant at its best. The variety of bonsai plant that you possess will dictate how how often it requires watering. Soil is another important consideration. Some bonsai plants or trees require damp soil, whilst others survive well in a drought. It may be necessary for you to mist your plant. This creates a humid environment similar to a rainforest, which your bonsai will love. If using a humidity tray, be sure to place the pot on some small rocks or a stand so it isn't directly immersed in the water.

Bonsai Cutting and Pruning

Indoor bonsai trees still require pruning and cutting on a regular basis in order to maintain their appearance. Just because bonsais look ageless and timeless, this doesn't mean they don't keep growing. It is important to repot indoor and outdoor bonsai plants anywhere from once yearly to every three years depending upon what kind of plant or tree it is. It is also important to maintain the branches to keep its style intact. Depending on the type of bonsai, it's important to reduce the amount of fertilizer you use during the winter. This is due to the fact that there are certain species of bonsai that hibernate during the season. So they don't require as many nutrients as in the warmer months. Indoor bonsais may not fully experience the full cycle of seasons because it is in an artificial environment. It is also important to check indoor bonsai trees for pests and other anomalies. An indoor bonsai is very attractive to mites, spiders and other pests. Carefully cleaning the branches and leaves with a soft brush or moistened cloth is the best approach.

By following these tips for bonsai care, your tree is sure to be an attractive feature of your home for years to come.

About the Author:
To find a great bonsai tree that will grow and flourish in the environment you plan to grow it in, you have to know a few things first. It's also important to learn how to care for your bonsai so that it thrives. Visit our site to get the facts you need about how to successfully cultivate an indoor bonsai tree
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