How to look after a bonsai tree?

A very simple question, which can quickly turn to an extensive list of questions.

Firstly, there are a number of different species to account for but to sum up the different types we have, Conifers, Broadleaf evergreens and Deciduous.

The most commonly used species for:

To keep things simple lets start with keeping the Bonsai tree alive. Now each species requires different levels of sun, water and air, and as a beginner there will be multiple attempts of trial and error. The most common question I have from anyone new to this is, ‘can we keep the tree indoors?’, and the most common answer is ‘yeah, nah, don’t do that’ due to a tree requiring, sun water and temperatures of our forever changing climate. Most trees need the change in temperature to go dormant and reserve energy in the colder, winter months.

POSITION

Trees generally grow outside, and as much as every new Bonsai enthusiast would like to keep their tiny tree indoors, your tree, shrub or bush will thrive when given the right amount of sun, water and air.

Ideally the best position for your tree will be outside in an enclosed backyard (to prevent any trees from walking off, yah know) with your trees facing north. Now I am in Australia, which is in the Southern Hemisphere, therefore South Africa, and South America can follow suit, anyone in Antarctica attempting Bonsai would be challenging themselves and their trees to say the least.

If your only option is having your Bonsai on a balcony facing South or inside the house, you will have to locate the best position for your tree to soak in some form of sunlight. Sunlight enables your tree to photosynthesize and create food for themselves.

Photosynthesis, process by which green plants and certain other organisms use the energy of light to convert carbon dioxide and water into the simple sugar glucose.

SUN

 Some species more than others prefer full sun, and others partial shade from the afternoon sun.

To briefly sum it up,

Conifers prefer full sun all day and also do not mind hanging out in the cold during the winter.

Majority of Broadleaf evergreens prefer full sun, flowering species partial shade from sun and the rain, succulent and tropical trees would rather stay out of the frost and snow during the winter months.

Deciduous trees can be tricky, there are several species that prefer all day sun and others that can have quite delicate leaves and prefer afternoon shade.

The right amount of sun, water and air will depend on where you are located on this planet and also the microclimate on your property.

WATER

Conifers can survive in rough and tough terrains with very little water, but providing the right amount will help your tree thrive and develop quicker. Some species like the Juniper can absorb water through their foliage.

Broadleaf evergreens do love a good drink but be careful as to how often you water as you prefer to avoid root rot. An open soil mix will prevent this from happening.

The Deciduous species can lose a lot of their moisture through there foliage which means be generous during the hot summer months and more than likely provide water morning and afternoon.