How to Care for an Indoor Bonsai

A bonsai tree is a beautiful example of an ancient tradition. Bonsai trees are very striking in appearance, so there are many who feature them in the home. Indoor bonsai trees will need extra care since they do not reap the full benefits of natural sunlight and natural weather conditions. Despite the fact that they look pretty tough, bonsai trees can be quite picky with their water and light requirements.

Watering Your Indoor Bonsai

When you bring a bonsai tree indoors it will require sufficient lighting to replace the natural sunlight that it would have been receiving outdoors. Your plant will also benefit if it is placed in a well ventilated area. The frequency of watering your bonsai is dependent on the type of plant you have and the condition of its soil. There are some bonsai trees that require well watered soil, but others are able to survive with almost no moisture.

Your bonsai tree will thrive in high humidity, which can be achieved by regular misting. You can use a humidity tray, but be certain that your pot is placed on some small rocks or a stand, and not sitting directly in the water.

Pruning and Cutting

The indoor bonsai tree will still need to be regularly pruned and cut to maintain its appearance. Just because bonsai plants look frozen in time does not mean that they do not grow. You need to repot your bonsai, whether it's indoors or out, every year to three years, depending on the variety. As well, you'll need to give proper maintenance to the branches in order to preserve its distinctive style.

In the wintertime, you'll likely have to reduce fertilization, depending on the type of bonsai you have. This is because some tree species hibernate during the season and do not need as much nutrients as in warmer months. An indoor bonsai will have difficulty experiencing each season in turn since it's in an unnatural setting.

It's important to check your indoor bonsai for pests and any other abnormalities that might show up. The fact that they are indoors may make them a favorite of spiders and other mites who are used to the great outdoors. You need to use a soft brush or damp cloth to carefully clean the branches and leaves of an indoor bonsai.