Tips & Tricks

Here are a few pieces of knowledge I’ve picked up on my Bonsai journey, credit goes to School of Bonsai, Hiramatsu Syunsyoen, and many professional Bonsai practitioners on YouTube, especially the few that have made it to our large island where I was able to spectate or participate in a workshop.

Australian Natives

They love a good drink and flush out new growth multiple times throughout the year. During the summer months feel free to keep a drip tray under your tree. When fertilising, be mindful of the Phosphorus level.

Tropical

They say to quit Bonsai if you ever kill a Fig tree, they are beyond resilient and can recover from hard cut back on their foliage or roots. Mid 2019, I had re-pot a Tiger Bark Ficus and with hot Spring temperatures, you wouldn’t believe it, but it didn’t make it. Don’t let anyones comment, about what you can or can’t do, affect how you progressively take up this hobby. Through the years, you learn what works and what does not, and allows you to be aware of potential issues before they are imminent.

Conifers

Pines and Junipers are the most popular species used for Bonsai for both beginners and professionals. They are relatively drought tolerant, which means don’t overwater in Winter. Try to avoid watering the foliage as this can slow down the growth of your tree, and attract pests and disease.

Fruiting

It’s been several years and I only have 2 x Chojubai, which aren’t known for their fruit.

Fruiting species for beginners include the Crabapple and Apple trees, several Cherry species, Orange and Lemon trees.

Will they attract more birds to your yard? Resulting in more weeds and risk of trees being knocked off the bench? There is a high potential this is reason why I don’t many fruiting, if any.

Deciduous

They keep you on your feet and intrigued throughout the year, from the new growth in Spring, leaf burn in Summer, Autumnal colours and the Winter silhouette as the foliage drops and the tree reveals itself. Perfect for Bonsai enthusiasts of all levels.

Flowering

Enjoy your flowers! A plant, shrub, bush or tree will not utilise resources to display flowers if it will be detrimental to the tree.
Seed pods on the other hand, can be removed.