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Caring For Your Indoor Bonsai

By Sarah Duke
Aug 29, 2008
A bonsai plant is a striking reminder of a longstanding art. Because bonsai trees are so attractive, many people love to display them in their houses. You need to give your indoor bonsai some special attention since it's not able to benefit from direct sunshine and the effects of outdoor weather.

Although they might look quite hardy, a bonsai can be very delicate, requiring precision watering and lighting.

When you bring a bonsai tree indoors it will require sufficient lighting to replace the natural sunlight that it would have been receiving outdoors. Your plant will also benefit if it is placed in a well ventilated area.

The frequency of watering your bonsai is dependent on the type of plant you have and the condition of its soil. There are some bonsai trees that require well watered soil, but others are able to survive with almost no moisture.

Your bonsai tree will thrive in high humidity, which can be achieved by regular misting. You can use a humidity tray, but be certain that your pot is placed on some small rocks or a stand, and not sitting directly in the water.

The indoor bonsai tree will still need to be regularly pruned and cut to maintain its appearance. Bonsais often appear changeless; however, they are definitely a living, growing tree. You need to repot your bonsai, whether it's indoors or out, every year to three years, depending on the variety. As well, you'll need to give proper maintenance to the branches in order to preserve its distinctive style.

Depending on what species your bonsai is, you will need to cut back on the fertilizer when it is winter time. The reason is that some bonsai varieties go dormant at this time and don't require as much nutrition as they do in the warm seasons. It's harder for an indoor bonsai to truly experience the seasonal cycles due to its simulated surroundings.

Indoor bonsai trees also need to be checked for pests and other anomalies that may have appeared. The fact that they are indoors may make them a favorite of spiders and other mites who are used to the great outdoors. You need to use a soft brush or damp cloth to carefully clean the branches and leaves of an indoor bonsai.
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