Bonsai Basics: How to repot your bonsai
Bonsais need to be repotted around once every two years, when the nutrient supply has been cut off by enveloping roots.
You’ll need:
A bigger pot (only if necessary),
A rootrake
Bonsai pruning shear
Wire cutter
Chopstick
The roots:
– Use the rootrake to remove old soil from the roots, starting on the sides and bottom of the tree, taking care not to cause damage
– Cut away roots which have grown too long, ensuring you don’t cut more than 30% of all the roots
The new pot:
– Prepare the new pot
– Cover the holes with a small piece of mesh (this is secured with wire)
– Also attach another piece of wire, to anchor the bonsai later
– Add a thin layer of the original bonsai soil
Planting the tree:
– Place the tree in the prepared pot and use the wire to hold the tree in position
– Add bonsai soil around the tree and use the chopstick to work the soil around the roots, filling all the air pockets around the root system
And finally:
– After repotting is finished, water thoroughly and place tree in a shaded area for 2 weeks. Thereafter, move back to its original location
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