Caring for Your Indoor Bonsai Plant

It is hard to argue the beauty of a bonsai plant. The beauty of bonsai is one of the reasons that so many people opt to care for an indoor bonsai plant. If the thought of keeping an indoor bonsai is appealing to you, there are a few things to keep in mind. Indoor bonsai plants will need additional care since they will not be receiving as much sunlight and natural weather. It is also worth noting that some variety of bonsai are not as hardy as others and may have special concerns regarding light and water.

Watering and Light for Your Indoor Bonsai

An indoor bonsai plant will need a light to simulate sunlight and careful monitoring for watering. Find a well ventilated area to place your bonsai plant. The species of plant will determine the amount of water needed and how you should maintain the soil. There are species that can thrive even in a drought, while others require damp soil at all times.

Reproducing a rain forest type of humidity by misting your plant may be necessary. You could also consider a humidity tray, however care should be taken to make sure that it is not exposed to the water. Try placing it on a bed of pebbles or on a stand.

Pruning and Cutting

Regular pruning and cutting is just as important to an indoor bonsai plant. Remember, your bonsai plant is a living and growing being! If you wish to maintain size and style, you will need to care for your plant properly. Repotting will be necessary once every one to three years depending on the variety of bonsai tree you have chosen.

Did you know that some species of bonsai trees hibernate during winter season? Some species require fewer nutrients during winter and will not require as much fertilizer as they would during the spring and summer months. Keep in mind though, an indoor bonsai will not experience the seasons the same way an outdoor plant would.

Watch for signs of pest contamination or disease. Mites and spiders love an indoor bonsai as it brings the outdoors in to them! Don't hesitate to clean your bonsai's leaves and branches with a brush or damp cloth.

This should be enough to get you started with your indoor bonsai garden. Remember, the hard work you put into your bonsai now will reward for years to come with a peaceful and serene companion.

A bonsai enthusiast herself, Ava Connor is now the webmaster and author of Bonsai Garden Tips.

Join Ava for more information on Indoor Bonsai Care.