How to Grow a Bonsai Tree

Bonsai trees are very difficult to grow because they are the most delicate and fragile trees available. If they are exposed to harsh weather conditions, it is tougher trying to keep them alive. You can choose to simply purchase a bonsai tree or grow the tree from scratch. Here’s how.

What You’ll Need:

• Bonsai seeds
• Fridge
• Small pot to plant in
• Bonsai soil
• Scissors

Procedure:

1. Depending on what type of bonsai seeds you have acquired will determine how the seeds should be germinated. In order for bonsai seeds to grow they take lots of care and must be kept fresh in the fridge until they are ready to be planted. You can either force germination with your bonsai seeds or germinate them naturally.

    
2. There are over 250 different species of bonsai, and the type of bonsai tree you are trying to grow will determine how you should germinate them. The instructions on how to properly germinate your specific type of bonsai seeds should be on the back of the package they come in.
3. After you have properly germinated your bonsai seeds, they should begin to sprout. When this takes place, grab a small pot about four inches deep and place the seeds in the soil. Remember, you don’t want a big pot because the purpose of the bonsai is to stay small. If you don’t use a small pot the tree will grow big and the purpose of the bonsai will be defeated.
4. Following the process of placing the seeds in the bonsai soil, cover the seeds with a little more bonsai soil on top.
5. After planting the seeds in the pot, sprinkle a little bit of water on top. It is important to remember not to drown the seeds with water. If you do drown the seeds, then your bonsai plant will not grow.
6. Place your pot filled with the bonsai seeds in a part of your home that will get just the right amount of sunlight. When choosing your spot, pick a place where sun will not be shining onto the bonsai seeds every hour of the day.
7. Water your seeds every other day. As stated above, too much water will cause the plant not to grow, causing a faulty bonsai tree.
   Depending on the tree, the time needed for the tree to grow will vary. The shortest amount of time for a tree to mature is about five years for a miniature tree. Miniature bonsai trees only grow two inches.
8. When your tree starts to sprout, make sure to prune it regularly but not over prune it. Use small scissors and cut off the leaves that are messing up the shape of the tree.
9. Remember to water your bonsai tree every other day and not everyday. If you follow these steps your seeds should develop into a healthy bonsai tree.

A Safety Reminder

A bonsai tree is alive and can develop mold in the trunk, and rust in the leaves. The rust will appear like yellow spots on the tree, and are toxic to humans. They should be cut off carefully from the tree. If your tree gets mold, scrape it off carefully with a wet paper towel. After touching anything with mold or rust, make sure you wash your hands, even if your hands did not come in contact with the rust or mold.

A bonsai tree may be small, but taking care of it requires huge effort. Follow these steps and you’ll be able to grow one of your own.