Growing and maintaining the bonsai tree is an art in itself and something which requires practise and patience. Bonsai trees grow in porous soil to enable suitable drainage.
Bonsai tree care and mindful watering is a must, but this isn't as easy as it sounds, however. Just as under-watering is a problem, over-watering can also lead to devastating results such as fungi and root rot.
To make sure your little tree lives a long, healthy life follow a few simple rules.
Test the soil frequently for its moisture level, either by pressing your thumb down on the soil to feel how springy it is, or by using a more accurate moisture gauge. These are much like ordinary thermometers and will give you an accurate reading to follow. The only drawback is that these tests will not give you an accurate reading of the moisture level throughout the whole of the soil, only the places you test.
To ensure the bonsai is adequately watered, dip the pot, up to the base of the tree, in a container full of water once a month. Leave the tree for a few minutes to absorb the water and then remove to drain. Make sure the pot is allowed to drain to prevent root rot as mentioned above. This process will ensure the water is absorbed throughout all of the soil rather than it just reaching certain areas.
For daily watering, try to make sure the water flows through to the bottom of the bonsai's container as best as possible but remember not to leave the pot standing in the tray.
The amount of times you will need to water your bonsai will much depend on your location and its climate, along with the particular requirements of the species of tree itself. Never follow instructions or advice that indicate you should water your bonsai every few days.
Always judge the tree yourself as to whether it needs watering daily, a few times a day, or every other day. Bonsai tree care all depends on the environment and surroundings it is being grown in.
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