Basic Maintenance and Care
Watering your Bonsai
When the soil feels dry, water your bonsai thoroughly. Immerse the entire pot in a vessel filled with water and soak until air bubbles stop appearing.
Use clean water. If the vessel contains traces of detergent, it may harm the moss.
The moss and trees may be sensitive to chlorine, so let tap water sit out for 24 hours to allow chlorine to evaporate before using it to water your plant.
Summer is a period of active growth, so water your bonsai once a day.
Water your bonsai about once every 1-2 days.
Bonsai use less water in the winter months, so water your bonsai about once every 2-3 days.
Where to Place your Bonsai
To help your bonsai thrive, place it in a location with plenty of sunlight and good air circulation, but avoid exposing it to harsh direct sunlight. An ideal spot would be a place by a window or in a bright room where it can receive a gentle breeze.
If you keep your bonsai in a room that does not get much sunlight, place it by a sunny window or in a sunny spot for about 5-6 hours two or three times a week. Keep your bonsai out of the direct flow of an air conditioner, which can cause it to dry out quickly.
Fertilizing your Bonsai
Avoiding the hottest and coldest months, it is generally appropriate to feed a bonsai tree with a liquid fertilizer 1-2 times a month.* Dilute the liquid fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
*Different trees require different amounts of fertilizer, so please consult the Sekibokka Tree Guide (Japanese only) for more detailed information.
Common Problems and Questions
The leaves of my tree are turning brown.
Remove any dead leaves. Both underwatering and overwatering may cause the leaves of your tree to turn brown.
How do I treat mold on my tree?
Gently remove the mold from your bonsai tree and place it in a location with good ventilation.
Does my tree require repotting?
A bonsai tree will not require repotting for 3-4 years, but if it experiences significant growth, it may eventually need to be repotted.
What should I do if I go away on holiday?
After watering your tree thoroughly, wrap a plastic bag around the pot and leave it in a well-ventilated spot with partial sun exposure.
