Bonsai Health 101: Learning about Common Concerns

Bonsai trees are beautiful, but they take special care to develop. They must be fed and watered in order to survive. Thankfully, there are ways to develop your bonsai beautifully, check for sickness and disease, as well as keep it in good and healthy condition.

Read on to discover more about bonsai health and how to address common concerns.

Is Your Bonsai Tree in Good Condition?

Look for these signs of health before acquiring a mature Bonsai from a nursery. You may also evaluate your own tree.

• The branches of the tree should be ramified regularly. It is best to prevent crossing roots.
• There are no subterranean roots in bonsai. Securely fasten the roots to the pot.
• Greenery is essential. Wilting and yellowing leaves indicate a potentially dangerous tree.
• The trunk should be straight and strong. From the base to the peak, the thickness should grow.
• A healthy tree’s branches are hard and brittle.

5 Symptoms of an Unhealthy Bonsai Tree

1. The leaves are spotted and have sharp edges.
2. It is weakly secured if the tree moves easily when touched (weak or not properly formed root system).
3. Branches that are weak and drooping.
4. No lateral roots are permitted. Roots coming out from drainage holes means your Bonsai needs repotting and some root pruning.
5. The bark has swelled.

If your bonsai tree is suffering from any of these problems, get professional guidance and treatment. If your bonsai is sick, try to revive it. Prepare a larger container for the roots, inspect them, and remove any brown, decaying roots. Pests can also be killed using insecticides. Repot the tree and give it some shade while its roots develop.

How to Keep Your Bonsai Healthy

A healthy bonsai acts as a barrier against illness. Improper growing circumstances may jeopardise the health and attractiveness of your tree. Determine your tree’s needs and respond accordingly.

Watering trees on a regular basis keeps them healthy. The amount and timing of watering is determined by the type of plant and the weather. Here are some watering tips:

• Bonsai trees like rain or bottled water. If there is no rain, pour 24-hour-old tap water using a watering can. 
• Water the plant from above with a fine hose until the drainage holes begin to drip. Water again after about 10 to 15 minutes, but make sure not to overwater your tree.
• During the summer, don’t rely on rain to keep your tree hydrated. In inadequately sized containers, soil dries out quickly. Smaller root balls cannot retain enough moisture. During the summer, drink water in the morning and evening. Don’t water incessantly.
• Winter is extremely humid. Wet soil does not require irrigation. Hydrate shaded trees on occasion. Watering should be continued from April through October.
• Avoid watering during the day in full sun. Otherwise, water droplets will induce sunburn on the leaves.
• Make sure your container and potting soil are both well-drained.

Bonsai and Light

Some bonsai species are sensitive to direct sunlight. They are unable to thrive in the absence of light. Photosynthesis necessitates a specific amount of light. Under direct sunlight, pines and junipers thrive. They should be slightly shaded in the summer.

Bonsai and Fertiliser

Organic or inorganic fertiliser encourages healthy tree development. Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K) are essential microelements for plants The amount of these three elements is specified by the N.P.K ratio.

• Nitrogen promotes plant growth.
• Potassium aids in the development of floral and fruiting structures.
• Phosphorus promotes proper root growth. It aids plants in disease resistance.

Humus from organic fertiliser improves soil quality. These fertilisers have an effect on soil microorganisms. Organic fertiliser in 2-inch granules can be mixed with potting soil or sprinkled on top. To keep birds away, cover pellets with plastic mesh.

Meanwhile, synthetic fertilisers enter the roots almost instantly and should be applied after irrigation. Water-soluble nutrients do not require microbial activity. Instead of using the whole strength, apply a small bit at a time, in moderation.

Conclusion

As you may see, the requirements for bonsai vary widely. Simply remember to fertilise and water your plants while they are growing. With the right tips applied, your bonsai can be healthy and grow beautifully.

If you’re interested in buying a bonsai starter kit, Bonsai Shop is your number one source. We are Australia’s leading supplier for all things bonsai. Shop our collection today!