Thursday, October 16, 2008

Caring for Your Indoor Bonsai

Bonsai plants, the result of an age old tradition, are an attractive addition to any home. Bonsais are highly attractive, so many people proudly display them in their houses. But some extra attention is required for indoor bonsais. The reason for this is that they aren't getting the advantages that come from exposure to outdoor weather conditions and natural sunlight. They may look to be quite hardy. However, there are certain bonsais that will become fragile when it comes to light and water.

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 also need to keep an eye on the frequency of watering. Your bonsai plant will also thrive if kept in a well ventilated area. The water requirements of your bonsai plant will depend on what type it is. Another key factor is the soil. There are those bonsai trees and plants that need damp soil, while others do just fine with drought like conditions.

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. Even though bonsais appear to be frozen in time, the reality is that they continue to grow. Depending on the variety of your bonsai plant or tree, you will need to repot it every year to three years. It is also important to maintain the branches to keep its style intact.

Cutting back on the amount of fertilizer during the cold months is usually recommended, depending on the bonsai variety. This is because some species of bonsai hibernate during this season. This means that they don't need as much nutritional supplementation as they do in spring and summer. Bonsais kept inside won't get the full benefits of seasonal cycles due to their artificial surroundings.

You should also watch out for pests and any unusual changes to your indoor bonsai tree. When bonsais are situated indoors, they may become a favorite place for spiders and other mites. The best practice is to clean the leaves and branches with great care using a damp cloth or a brush.

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

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