Watering Bonsai

Tips on Watering Bonsai

Because bonsai pots are small and shallow, the root system of the tree is limited so watering bonsai trees properly can be difficult. The frequency of watering bonsai depends on the specie of the tree. Some needs watering almost constantly while other can manage dryness in longer periods.

Watering bonsai too often will soak the soil and can result in root rot and fungal infections. On the other hand, you should monitor the tree daily to prevent it from becoming completely dried out, which can easily happen with exposure to sunlight, wind and heat.

When spring begins, bonsai trees can be somewhat trained to grow on certain amount of water. Watering bonsai sparingly at the start of their growth will make it require less water throughout summer. Likewise, watering bonsai heavily when it is starting to grow will require you to maintain that frequency all year.

Because the tree has grown accustomed to its water intake, it is important not to change the watering schedule suddenly. In deciding how often to water the bonsai, you may want to consider the fact that heavy or frequent water will turn out larger needles and leaves.

There are many factors to consider when figuring out just how often your bonsai needs to be watered. The key to watering bonsai properly is routine checking. Just because the day is overcast or windy does not mean it is it is not as drying as a sunny or hot day so you need to regularly check on your bonsai.

The ideal way to do this is to water the bonsai first thing every morning and then, in the evening, check the bonsai to see if it needs water. Keep this routine even on a rainy day because sometimes the rain does not go through the thick foliage. As a general rule of thumb, watering bonsai must be done just when the tree is almost dry or just starting to dry.

It is ideal to collect rain water and use this when watering bonsai but using tap water is completely fine. Remember to that soil must be thoroughly wet so that water drains from the holes beneath the container and washes away built up of salt and other deposits at the bottom. While watering bonsai can be done at any time during the day, avoid spraying the foliage when the sun is to prevent scorching. In winter, bonsai trees will of course require less water. Be sure to keep them in an area that is sheltered and cool but not freezing. The tree can still dry out even if it is winter so do not forget your routine checking. Water the bonsai in the morning whenever necessary.