Bonsai repotting is not as difficult as many bonsai beginners think. A while ago, I posted step-by-step instructions that make bonsai repotting the easiest thing you’ve ever done. Today, I will tell you what bonsai repotting mistakes you should avoid:
1. Using the same pot
Young bonsai grow faster than well established ones, so make sure to use a larger pot when repotting your bonsai tree. New pot should be clean and dry.
2. Cutting too much
When root trimming make sure to leave the root mass near the trunk undamaged. By keeping the inner root mass closest to the trunk unharmed, you bonsai will remain strong and healthy.
3. Cutting all the little roots
Removing all little roots and keeping only think roots will not benefit your bonsai tree. You need to remove only old and dead roots. Don’t cut more than one-third of the root mass because it can place significant stress on your bonsai tree.
4. Making right cuts
When cutting think roots make sure to keep cuts facing down and not upward.
5. Feeding bonsai after repotting
Dont’ feed your bonsai tree right after repotting. Fertilizing soil during repotting can burn and damage young and developing roots. It need some time to deal with stress after repotting. You can start feeding when you see some new growth. Use good quality fertilizer, that has all essential macro and micro nutrient minerals that bonsai needs for healthy growth. I like to use Bonsai Pro Fertilizer. Here is a great article on Bonsai Fertilizing.
6. Using unclean tools
Make sure to clean and dry all of your scissors before root pruning to avoid spreading the diseases.
7. Using wrong soil
It is very important to use right soil mix for you bonsai tree. Check plant profile before getting soil mix for you bonsai. Wrong soil mix can harm your bonsai tree and prevent it from growing.
Susan Brian
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