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Watering and Fertilizing

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Because Bonsai trees are planted in less soil than other house hold plants usually are, they require frequent watering and feed. Knowing when and how to do either can often be difficult.

• Bonsai trees also need to be watered a lot because they are generally planted in “free-draining” soil. It is difficult to know when to water a Bonsai tree, because there are many factors that determine how often it should be done. Some of these factors are location, temperature, lighting, amount of soil, and the change of seasons. An inexpensive moisture meter can help make watering your Bonsai tree more of an exact science. They basically work like a thermometer. Simply put it in the soil and the needle will tell you when to water the tree. Other ways to determine when your Bonsai needs water are by paying attention to the foliage, testing the soil by placing your index finger just under the surface, or weighing the pot. The drier the tree is, the lighter it will feel, because it will not have the additional water weight.
• Fertilization - You should feed your Bonsai more in the fall than in the spring, generally speaking. Nitrogen, phosphoric acid, and potash should be the three main ingredients in any fertilizer chosen as well as "chelated" iron. You will only need to apply about half of the feed suggested by the manufacturer and you should always water prior to fertilizing. You may also wish to consider adding a vitamin supplement, such as Superthrive to your fertilizer mix and using a slow release fertilizer whose nutrients are released with each watering. This type of fertilizer will make your life much easier.

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