The quickest way to get started on what hopefully will be years of pleasure from the growing and care of bonsai trees is to buy a plant that has already been potted. However there are some things to watch out for to ensure you get a bonsai tree that is healthy and unlikely to give you trouble from the word go.
Firstly, find a tree which is aesthetically pleasing. A bonsai is a living work of art. You are the artist, but nature has already chosen the basic characteristics of the building block from which your creation will grow. The art of bonsai is all about bending and shaping the tree to your will. After that, the proper care of bonsai trees will ensure nature does not undo what you have done.
Secondly, and perhaps most importantly, check the soil in the pot the bonsai is sitting in. It should be moist, but not too damp. Watering is perhaps the most crucial element in the proper care of bonsai trees. Allowing the soil to get too dry, or giving your tree too much water, can prove deadly very quickly. Watering needs vary between species, but the key is to make sure the soil never completely dries out. If your bonsai has been starved of water while in the shop it may struggle to survive when you get it home.
Once you have bought your tree, it is vitally important you check the amount of moisture around the roots on a daily basis. When you water do so thoroughly. You should ensure the pot your tree is in has plenty of holes to allow excess water to drain out. Your tree may benefit from giving the roots a good soaking. This can be done by putting the tree, container and all, into a tray of water for a while. However do not leave it there for more than an hour or two - too much moisture can also lead to trouble, particularly in encouraging fungi to grow.
The best idea is to keep a daily check on the soil's moisture content by poking something small like a matchstick or toothpick into the pot. The earth should be damp, but not soggy. Master the art of watering, and you are well on the way to becoming a master in the art of the proper care of bonsai trees.
Before purchasing your tree, check it carefully to see that it has no damage. Do the same to the branches, and also choose a plant that has many healthy lower limbs. Look also at the leaves. If they are damaged, spotted, yellow or show other signs of disease choose another plant.
Selecting a suitable position for your plant is also important. You need to find one that provides the most suitable amount of sunlight or shade for your particular variety of tree. Most bonsai actually prefer the outdoors, like their full-sized cousins, but it does depend on the variety of tree you have and whether it's suited to your home climate.
Once you have the position right, it is a matter of keeping a daily check to ensure you are maintaining the right conditions for your bonsai to thrive. As stated earlier, the most crucial aspect in the proper care of bonsai trees is a daily check on the soil moisture. If you get that right, you'll be off to a good start.
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This is a quick start guide only. As your bonsai grows you will have more questions. To get more information on bonsai trees care
Disclaimer: All information on this site is provided for informational purposes only! By no means is any
information presented herein intended to substitute for the advice provided to you by any health care or other professional
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