• select location with moderately bright light
• protect from direct sun in summer; place near sunny window in winter
• moderately moist soil is preferred. Water thoroughly only after soil is dry to the touch
• avoid overwatering; do not allow plants to stand in water
• drain excess water in saucer at base of pot to prevent root rot and protect furniture
• tropical green plants prefer temperatures that are warm: 
  70 - 72 degrees F (21-22 degrees C) day
  65 - 70 degrees F (18 - 21 degrees C) night
• avoid excessively hot or cold areas
• fertilize periodically, following manufacturer's directions
• key tip for success: provide good light and avoid water-logged soil

 
the wondrous art of growing bonsai

bonsai, as an art form, stems from ancient oriental culture.  it was originated from china and developed by the japanese.  in the 13th century, the chinese collected and potted wild trees that nature had dwarfed.  these naturally formed miniatures were the first bonsai.


b a s i c   c a r e   o f   y o u r   b o n s a i

• location: place near a well lighted window with sufficient air circulation away from the air condition or heater
• watering: too much or too little water will do harm.  water when the soil is almost dry.  DO NOT allow the soil to dry completely.  when the soil is getting dry, submerge the pot in water, perhaps in a bathtub, with the water level covering the soil completely.  watering is done when the bubbling stops
• light: medium or filtered sunlight is recommended.  a grow light with uv rays can be used.  turn your bonsai occasionally so that all sides of its figure will get sunlight and stay healthy
• fresh air: it is very important to place your bonsai where there is sufficient air circulation
• fertilizer: we recommend a fertilizer once every six months
• pruning and shaping: do not trim your bonsai immediately after purchase.  let it adapt to its new environment.  as you notice new shoots, trim those that are growing out of the desired shape.  in general, your bonsai can be trimmed at any time during the growing months.
• wiring: you can modify the branch or trunk position on the bonsai using copper or aluminum wire.  in two to three months, the modification should take a permanent set and remain at that new position when the wire is removed.  the wire should be removed before it cuts into the bark
• re-potting: assuming you have fertilized the soil properly, every three years, you should change the soil
• trans-potting: when there is imbalance between the size of the tree and the size of the pot, you should go to the next bigger pot.  usually an inch bigger all around than the old pot
• disease and pests: remove dead leaves, needles and flowers from the soil regularly.  insectides should only be used as a last resort.  it is safer to submerger your bonsai completely for one or two days.