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Most beginners hesitate to cut their prized bonsai trees. Admittedly it is not something that should be done in cavalier fashion, but it is essential for the proper maintenance and care of bonsai trees, and requires careful planning
Pruning will help create and then maintain your tree’s shape. A true bonsai follows very strict rules established over hundreds of years by masters in the creation and care of bonsai trees. For instance, the first branch should be about one third up the height of the trunk. If the first limb branches to the right, the second should grow from the opposite side with the pattern repeating as branches rise up the tree. They should also reduce in size as they ascend and there should be plenty of space between them.
The best time to prune depends largely on the type of bonsai you have. Some varieties prefer spring when the tree is about to undergo its most vigorous growth. Others prefer autumn when they’re about to lie dormant for a while. You will probably need to do a little research on the maintenance and care of bonsai trees to determine the most suitable time for pruning your particular plant.
Your next step is to determine which branches detract from the appeal of your tree and earmark them for removal. That will mean taking out any that cross over the trunk or each other, as well as any that are growing on the wrong side or are too close to another.
Proper care of bonsai trees means it is usually necessary to prune hardest at the top of your tree where the growth is the most vigorous. If left alone, this top growth will pull nutrients from weaker, lower branches and spoil the look of your tree. Conversely, heavily pruning in one area will encourage growth in a weaker area.
When pruning branches it is best to cut them back to a bud that is pointing in the same direction in which you wish the tree to grow. This means any new growth will branch in that direction. A word of warning though – think carefully before making a cut and don’t get too carried away. You can’t put a branch back once it has been removed.
The best tools to use are secateurs or scissors,but make sure they are sharp enough to give a clean cut. Also ensure they have been cleaned first to minimise the risk of the wound becoming infected. Large cuts should be painted with a protective paste to prevent diseases and pests attacking the wound. Your pruning instruments should always be sharp and clean as blunt tools will leave a ragged cut more likely to lead to trouble in this regard.
Proper care of bonsai trees also involves pruning the roots. This is generally done every two to three years. Ideally you remove around a third of the root ball, snipping off the larger thicker roots. The mass of finer, hair-like roots left behind will be much more efficient at absorbing water.Very importantly, once you have repotted your bonsai after root pruning, you should give it a good soaking.
Once your tree is the desired shape you may still need to do what’s called maintenance pruning. This is a simple procedure able to be done using a finger and thumb to pinch off unwanted new growth.
As I stated in the beginning, pruning is essential for the proper maintenance and care of bonsai trees, and it can be scary wondering whether you are doing the right thing. However it’s this act which determines the shape of your tree, creating its unique appeal and thus providing the most satisfying aspect of this hobby. You simply need to think carefully, plan your moves and do your homework first.
To find more information on pruning and all aspects of the care of bonsai trees care of bonsai trees
It is a good bonsai for someone interested in investing in even more bonsais, but does not have much experience – it’s a good “starter tree”.
The tree would make a great centerpiece or addition to a desk, table or dresser.
The tree brings nature right into your home for your enjoyment.
Come with organic bonsai food and bonsai care instruction sheet.
Product Description The 5 to 6 years old, 7 to 8 inches high Green Thumb Bonsai possesses many beautiful qualities of a mature, full size tree found in nature. A native to the Tropics, it is both strong and erect in appearance because of its sturdy trunk and the poise of its branches. The tree is aesthetically pleasing, which is improved by its positioning in the well-crafted ceramic pot. It is easy to care for, thrives in an indoor environment, and is not likely to dry out, making it … More >>
Growing an indoor bonsai tree can be a great hobby full of rewards and relaxation. Or, it can be a frustrating experience that ends up costing a lot of money with nothing to show for it. What makes the difference? There is a plain and simple answer – knowledge and patience. Does this mean that the beginner has no hope of being successful? No! It just means that before starting the wonderful journey into the world of bonsai, you must make sure that you have the basic knowledge to maximize your chance for success. Two of the first steps are choosing a optimal location and choosing the correct species.
Indoor Bonsai Tree Location
The first thing you need to consider is where you want to keep your bonsai tree. Since a bonsai is, after nothing more than a miniature tree – the only difference between a bonsai tree and a regular ordinary tree is the size and care – they are best grown outdoors. This doesn’t mean that you can grow an indoor bonsai tree – just that extreme care is needed on such things as type, location, tools and supplies. Indoor bonsai trees in general should be placed in a sunny area near a window where there is minimal exposure to variations in temperature. Do not place a bonsai tree on a window sill however, as there is a high chance of temperature variation there. Also avoid areas near heating ducts or vents, as the temperature will vary there.
Indoor Bonsai Species
Indoor bonsai trees generally range from 8 to 12 inches in height. There are several species that do well indoors provided there are the correct conditions. In General you want to choose a Tropical or Sub-tropical species, as these are types that generally thrive at a temperature around 65 degrees. Since this is close to the temperature that most people keep their homes and offices, these species do very well indoors. Some of the most popular types of indoor bonsai trees include: Baby Jade, Chinese Elm, Ficus, and Japanese Maple. The primary factors to look at when choosing a tree are to look at which one or ones thrive in an environment that matches your home, which styles have availability of good quality trees, and of course personal preference.
Choosing a good location and the correct type of tree are among the most crucial elements for indoor bonsai tree success. It is well worth the effort to learn important details before purchasing your indoor bonsai tree. If you correctly place your tree, and choose a species that adapts well to an indoor environment, you will be well on your way to a successful bonsai experience. Bonsai is a hobby and art form you can enjoy for a lifetime!
Kathleen is an Internet Marketer and author of the Indoor Bonsai Tree blog.