Fertilize a bonsai: how and when to do it

Fertilizing a bonsai is one of the fundamental tasks in growing this type of plant. If for any plant it is an important task for its well-being, in the case of bonsai it is absolutely crucial. Only if we pay it regularly and how we should, our little tree will survive. It may sound resounding and even extreme, but it completely adjusts to reality. The subscriber not only affects the growth of our plant: it can directly affect its life.

Understanding to what extent it is vital to pay a bonsai goes through knowing a little more about how trees absorb nutrients. Conventionally, the way to feed is by growing its root system both deep and parallel to the ground in search of nutrients. Since the cultivation of these small-format trees is done in bonsai pots, the nutrients are depleted in a short period of time. A compelling reason to take the task of renewing them very seriously.

For all these reasons, let’s see how to fertilize a bonsai correctly. Something as important as doing it at the right time.

WHEN TO FERTILIZE A BONSAI?

Start point. To correctly fertilize a bonsai, we must do it at the time of plant growth. This is roughly from spring to late fall. By maintaining this pattern as soon as winter leaves, we will be encouraging the young roots to be properly nourished and grow considerably, in addition to flowering.

If we want to control the growth of our bonsai and prevent it from growing too much, it’s simple: just minimize spring subscribers and increase them in autumn. In this way, we will be preparing our tree to face the winter lethargy with sufficient reserves to face budding with the arrival of spring.

This fertilizer pattern changes substantially when we review the care of indoor bonsai. A term that refers, in a popular way, to those tropical bonsai that are grown indoors. In these cases, the frequency of the subscriber is different: we can nurture them throughout the year.

And when do you not have to pay? We will never do it in months of extreme heat or if our plant is sick. It is also not recommended for newly transplanted bonsai. For them, in addition to choosing a specific substrate that has all the necessary nutrients, the ideal is to wait a month before fertilizing.

HOW TO FERTILIZE A BONSAI CORRECTLY

In order for a bonsai to fulfill its function correctly, some things must be taken into account. To begin with: we must be rigorous with the amounts that we apply, always following the instructions of each manufacturer. Although we believe that «a little more» will not sit badly, we could not be more wrong. Bonsai are plants that demand a balance and, although they need nutrients, they can be in trouble if we administer them in excess.

What’s more: in mature trees that are already formed, we can even apply a slightly lower amount than indicated to avoid excess growth. In this way, we will be providing the nutrients it demands without promoting its growth.

In addition to this, there is another equally important detail. Fertilizing a bonsai in the right amount is just as important as doing it as often as necessary. If you don’t do it regularly, it won’t do its job either.

And how to choose the ideal fertilizer?

Bonsai fertilizers are specially designed to cover the specific needs of this type of plants. In general, these fertilizers have a balanced proportion of NPK; so we choose the type of bonsai we choose will fulfill its function.

Let’s see the different types of fertilizer for bonsai that exist.

1. Liquid fertilizer, the most used

It is one of the most used formulas. It dissolves in the irrigation water in a simple way, and is easy to apply. It entails having a calendar to comply with the guidelines that our plant demands.

It can also be sprayed on the leaves.

2. Solid compost, a perfect alternative for forgetful people

Its administration is ideal if we do not trust our regularity. Using a container of organic fertilizer for bonsai, it is placed on the substrate so that the fertilizer is released gradually. It is important to avoid placing it near the trunk.

3. Moisturizing fertilizer, indicated to promote the growth of leaves

Another way to pay a bonsai, focusing primarily on the development of its aerial parts.

The use of a moisturizing fertilizer will help promote the growth of the leaves and enhance their greenness.

And yes: only if you are regular when it comes to fertilizing a bonsai will you be able to enjoy its almost magical beauty.