fbpx

Bonsai for Beginners

Salisbury Greenhouse-Bonsai for Beginners-class for bonsai beginners

Since 500 or 1000 BC, Chinese Buddhist monks have grown bonsai trees to bring the peace and balance of the outdoors inside, and to this day, this is what the bonsai represents. Are you thinking about entering the world of bonsai trees? Buckle up because this ancient tradition has complexities and surprises that will constantly enthrall you and your attention in its fascinating grip.  

There is a vast range of bonsai trees, each with its own care requirements. Still, beginners need not be intimidated because we have a bonsai tree for every confidence level and budget. We will fill you in on the dos and don’ts in care for these extraordinary historical art pieces and have you feeling inspired and equipped with some baseline knowledge.

 

Salisbury Greenhouse-Bonsai for Beginners-small leaf jade bonsai

What Is a Good Bonsai Tree for Beginners?

Without question, the perfect bonsai tree for a beginner is a ficus bonsai, an evergreen tropical. It grows well indoors in bright light and is fairly forgiving with watering if you happen to forget””and the branches are supple and malleable, making them easy to shape with wire. The ficus bonsai is resilient and is tolerant of low humidity, making it a great choice as a houseplant for the bonsai beginner.  

A couple of other good choices for beginners are:

  • Chinese elm (semi-evergreen, will grow indoors or outdoors)
  • Small leaf jade (evergreen succulent, will grow indoors, tolerant of drying out)

 

Salisbury Greenhouse-Bonsai for Beginners-juniper bonsai

I Want a Classic””How Do I Care for My Juniper Bonsai?

The juniper bonsai is the iconic visual we all have when we think of a bonsai tree, and for a good reason. These beauties can live for hundreds of years with the proper care, making it a specimen that can be passed down to the next generation, and also makes a fantastic gift that will help to bring peace and balance into a home.  

Juniper roots do not like to be too wet, so be careful not to overwater with this one””misting regularly is very beneficial. Fertilize with a liquid fertilizer every other week in the growing season or every month with slow-release pellets.  

 

-watering bonsai Salisbury greenhouse

Bonsai Care Tips to Remember

Growing your bonsai tree can be incredibly satisfying and calming. It can be an activity that brings you peace, meditation, and centredness, just like it did for the Buddhist monks. We want to steer you on the right path to your bonsai’s needs, so here are some general tips and suggestions that will help you:

  • Because bonsai trees are in shallow pots, watering maintenance is essential.
  • Bonsai watering needs will change depending on the season; they need less water and fertilizer in the winter months.  
  • Bonsai trees love natural light, but the sheltered morning light is ideal.
  • The goals of bonsai pruning are to shape the style of your tree, remove indirect growth, and encourage branching.
  • Young bonsai’s need annual repotting. Repotting doesn’t mean an increase in pot size but instead monitoring and pruning of the root system.

-assorted bonsai Salisbury greenhouse

General Troubleshooting Tips to Keep in Mind

Is your bonsai not listening to you? Or are you not listening to it? Always remember:

  • A drooping bonsai indicates a need for dramatic watering. Submerge the bowl in water (not over the rim) for 30 minutes.
  • Be careful not to scorch the plant with too much direct or intense light, particularly in summer””place in sheltered locations.
  • Increase indoor humidity by misting or leaving a shallow dish of water to evaporate near the plant.
  • Never fertilize dry soil. Always water your bonsai with regular water first; otherwise, you will burn the roots.
  • Allow more space for thickened growth with a more dramatic pruning of the new growth every 2-4 years.

 

Growing your own bonsai tree is a relaxing and satisfying pastime that anyone can do. Visit our team at Salisbury Greenhouse to talk to us about which bonsai is right for you and get the accurate advice you need to tend to its care.  

Houseplant Makeover

Houseplants in need of some TLC?
Salisbury at Enjoy offers professional inspection and repotting services for your houseplants.

Categories

Read through our Growing Guides for tips to enrich your garden! 

More like this

Houseplants & Anxiety

Houseplants & Anxiety By Rob Sproule Lavender Rosemary Aloe Vera Dracaena Snakeplant Gerbera Daisy English Ivy “Time spent in nature heals your mind, body, and

Recent Articles

It's Seeding Time

Join us for this free event
to get all the tips and tricks to start growing your own garden or plants!

Seeding Saturdays

at Salisbury at Enjoy
April 1st

1PM to 3PM

Seeding SUNDAYS

at Salisbury Greenhouse
April 2nd

1PM to 3PM

Stay in Touch

* indicates required
( ) - (###) ###-####
Yes, I would like to receive text messages to my phone number.
I understand that I can opt out by testing STOP to the text messages.
To ensure that you receive only the content you want, please select the communications you would like to subscribe to:
Salisbury Greenhouse
Get your gardening tips!
Salisbury at Enjoy
Hot plant drops!
Salisbury Landscaping
Beautify your outdoor space
Events