How to repot your Bonsai and give it basic maintenance

It's that time of year! Time to do some maintenance on your bonsai. This isn't too hard, and will give it a lot of needed love for you little tree :D

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Sharp, tightly pointed scissors
• Wire cutters
• Wire wrapping pliers
• Small needle nose pliers
• New, well draining soil
• Root hormone powder

Step1

Gather your tools in one spot.

Step2

Get your tree, and put it on the table with all your stuff handy, you'll be working quickly, so you'll want everything in reaching distance!

Step3

Take the tree out of the pot (you can use a new pot but it is not necessary) and gently squeeze the soil all the way around it till the roots are almost completely exposed. I have a nice moss carpet going on this one so, since it keeps the tree insulated and keeps it from drying out I chose to keep it.

Step4

Get the scissors...and...cut off the roots! Sprinkle root hormone powder on the roots.

Step5

Test the depth in the pot - The tree should rest so that the base is even with the top of the pot. If there is any 'gap' then fill under, and around that with soil and pat it down well. Trim as desired :D

Step6

If you decide that it needs some wiring, grab that copper wire and wrap a coil (I love coil wrappers, makes it so easy!).

Step7

Pull the coil loose and work it carefully onto where you want it.

Step8

Water well and as soon as you see any new growth, you will know you have made your tree happy!

Tips & Warnings

A good rule is never remove more from the top than you do from the bottom!