Bloom-Rite? Outdoor Bonsai

Bonsai, (pronounced Bone-sigh) is a Japanese word meaning "Tree in a pot", but "Bonsai" implies more than this. Bonsai is the art of creating the illusion of a mature tree or landscape in miniature. There is evidence that the discipline originated in China about 2000 years ago, and was brought to Japan by Buddhist monks. Bonsai has been documented in Japanese writing since 1310! Bonsai was introduced in the United States in the 1900's and now has an enthusiastic following. Your Bloom-Rite? Outdoor Bonsai is carefully grown to start you on your way to an exciting Bonsai specimen.

Care

1. Water

Water management is the most important aspect of Bonsai culture. The Bonsai’s root system is confined to a small area and the soil can dry out very quickly. Even brief periods of extreme dryness can result in damage. It is best to keep your Bonsai moist at all times. Check your Bonsai plant each day to see if it requires water. To test the moisture content of the soil, press a finger into the soil at the base of the tree trunk. Water should be applied when the soil feels slightly damp. The best means of irrigating your Bonsai is to submerge the pot in a container of water for five to ten minutes. If water must be applied to the top of the pot, the stream should be directed to the soil at the base of the tree trunk. Continue irrigating until water pours from the drainage holes on the underside of the pot.

2. Location

Place your Bloom-Rite? Bonsai outdoors in a cool, well lighted location. You may bring your Bonsai indoors for 2 to 3 days to admire, however it is important to remember that outdoor Bonsai are intolerant of typical indoor conditions. If you have a collection of Bloom-Rite? Bonsai, you can rotate the plants in and out of your home and always have a Bonsai inside to enjoy. In cold winter climates protect your Bonsai from freezing temperatures. Consult your local nursery for guidance in your area.

3. Fertilizer

Fertilize your Bloom-Rite? Bonsai once every two weeks from early spring through late summer. Use a balanced fertilizer such as a 20-20-20 at half the recommended strength. Do not fertilize your Bonsai during winter dormancy, when the soil is very dry, or if the plant has been root pruned.

4. Repotting/Root Pruning/Shaping

Your Bonsai may be pruned anytime during the growing season, (after the appearance of new growth). It is helpful to have a specific shape in mind before you begin pruning your bonsai. Try to choose a shape that compliments the plants natural growth habit. Hard wood varieties may be trimmed with sharp pruning shears. Soft wood varieties may be trimmed by finger pinching. Wire may be used to help achieve a desired look. It can be wrapped around a branch or tree trunk in spiral form; it is important not to wrap the branch too tightly. Care must be taken to remove the wire before it starts digging into the trunk. Gently cut wire and remove it with sharp shears.

Your Bloom-Rite? Bonsai should be repotted every 2 to 3 years, in the early spring, prior to the appearance of new growth. If the root system appears to be packed tightly in the pot and there is no room for root expansion, then the roots should be pruned and the Bonsai repotted. Root pruning will help your Bonsai retain its dwarf form. You can safely remove 1/3 of the volume of soil. For best results, cut the roots at 45? downward slant, then transplant your Bonsai to a slightly larger pot. Use a commercial potting mix that retains moisture and drains well.

5. Diseases and Pests

Keeping your Bloom-Rite? Bonsai clean can help prevent disease and pest infestation. Be sure to remove any weeds that appear in the soil, and remove all dead leaves and needles from the soil surface. Because our bonsai plant species are so numerous, it is recommended that you consult with your local nursery for guidance in treating diseases and pests.

Taken from "Bloom-Rite? Bonsai Care Booklet", ? 1997 # 6601-00 Bonsai-Outdoor