A bonsai plant is a striking reminder of a longstanding art. Bonsai trees are very striking in appearance, so there are many who feature them in the home. Indoor bonsai plants will need extra care since they do not reap the full benefits of natural sunlight and natural weather conditions. Despite the fact that they look pretty tough, bonsai trees can be quite picky with their water and light requirements.
Watering Your Indoor Bonsai
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. Some plants or trees need to have damp soil while others thrive well in spite of a drought.
Misting your plant may be necessary to produce a sort of rainforest humidity in which it will thrive. 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.
Pruning and Cutting
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. Both indoor bonsai and outdoor bonsai need to be repotted anywhere from once a year up to three years depending on the kind of tree. 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.
It's important to check your indoor bonsai for pests and any other abnormalities that might show up. 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.