10 Beginner Bonsai Mistakes You're Probably Making - Bonsai-En

10 Beginner Bonsai Mistakes You're Probably Making

The Top 10 Beginner Bonsai Mistakes

Bonsai is a beautiful and rewarding hobby that requires patience and dedication. However, many beginners make mistakes that can be easily avoided with a bit of knowledge and experience. In this article, we will discuss the 10 most common beginner bonsai mistakes and how to fix them.
 

Not understanding the basics of bonsai

Bonsai is not simply about miniaturizing a tree, but rather about creating a work of art that mimics the natural shape and form of a mature tree in nature. Understanding the basics of bonsai, such as the principles of design, the different styles of bonsai, and the care and maintenance requirements of your specific bonsai tree, is essential for success. If you sit down in front of your bonsai tree to work on it and don't understand exactly why you are doing that work you need to further your education. You can learn all the basics of bonsai with our online beginners bonsai course here
 

Using the wrong soil

Bonsai trees have specific soil requirements that are different from other types of plants. Using the wrong soil can lead to poor drainage and root rot, which can ultimately kill your bonsai tree. Be sure to use a well-draining bonsai soil mix and avoid using regular potting soil. Remember that bonsai trees live in a very different environment to regular plants either in the garden or in nature. There are several adjustments that need to be made to have a happy and healthy bonsai in a shallow container environment. 
 

Overwatering or underwatering

One of the most common mistakes made by beginners is watering their bonsai tree too much or too little. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. The best way to determine when to water your bonsai tree is to stick your finger in the soil and check for moisture. Over watering how ever is usually almost always a problems with incorrect bonsai soil rather then the frequency of watering. Under watering is far more dangerous than over watering.
 

Not pruning or wiring properly

Pruning and wiring are essential techniques for shaping and maintaining the form of your bonsai tree. However, improper pruning or wiring can damage the tree and even kill it. Be sure to research the specific pruning and wiring requirements for your bonsai tree and consult with an experienced bonsai grower if you are unsure. Remember bonsai is horticulture first art second, pruning is a horticultural technique that leads to artistic design, learn when and how to properly prune before pruning for aesthetic design.
 

Not repotting regularly

Bonsai trees need to be repotted every 2-5 years, depending on the species. Failure to repot can lead to poor growth and even death. Be sure to research the specific repotting requirements for your bonsai tree and consult with an experienced bonsai grower if you are unsure. Repotting is probably the number 1 technique that kills bonsai trees when done in correct so be sure to learn proper repotting technique. You can learn repotting with our online repotting course here
 

Not providing enough light

Bonsai trees need a certain amount of light to thrive. Without enough light, the tree will not be able to photosynthesize and will eventually die. Be sure to place your bonsai tree in a location that receives the appropriate amount of light for the species. This needs to be un filtered light as well so don't sit your tree behind glass or plastic sheeting. A tree not getting sunlight has the same affect as a human not eating. Tree generate their food through photosynthesis which the sun plays a vital role in.
 

Not fertilizing properly

Fertilizing your bonsai tree is essential for healthy growth and development. However, over-fertilizing can burn the roots and stunt the growth of the tree. Be sure to research the specific fertilization requirements for your bonsai tree and consult with an experienced bonsai grower if you are unsure. Remember fertilizer is not plant food but a supplement that strengthens the trees growth and natural pest and disease resistance. When choosing a fertilizer make sure it has an N.P.K value on the packaging, a common mistake people make is purchasing a tonic such as seasol and using it as a fertilizer. 
 

Not protecting from pests and diseases

Bonsai trees are susceptible to pests and diseases just like any other plant. Failure to protect your bonsai tree from pests and diseases can lead to poor growth and even death. Be sure to research the specific pest and disease control requirements for your bonsai tree and consult with an experienced bonsai grower if you are unsure. Making sure your tree has plenty of healthy roots and is also well fed with Potassium is a good start. Knowing when common pests are most active can also be another advantage, for example as new growth flushes on trees in spring aphids will be in abundance, knowing when to check for them and having the correct spray on hand can keep you one step ahead.
 

Not allowing enough time for healing

Bonsai trees take time to heal after pruning or wiring. Rushing the healing process can lead to poor growth and even death. Be sure to allow your bonsai tree enough time to heal before making any further adjustments. This is especially true after repotting or potting a tree up into refinement for the first time. Giving the tree time to repair its roots is paramount.
 

Not having patience

This is one of the most common mistakes made by beginners. It's important to remember that bonsai trees take time to grow and shape, and rushing the process can lead to poor growth and even death. It is important to be patient and enjoy the process of nurturing your bonsai tree to maturity.
In conclusion, bonsai is a beautiful and rewarding hobby that requires patience and dedication. By avoiding these common beginner mistakes, you can ensure the health and longevity of your bonsai tree. Remember to research the specific care requirements for your bonsai tree and consult with an experienced bonsai grower if you are unsure. Happy bonsai growing!

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

  • Brach Cutter + Scissor Bundle

    These are the 2 most essential tools in bonsai, so why not buy them together and save? Both tools are high quality Japanese Steel from one of the most trusted brands in bonsai. Click the image above to get your discount.

  • Essential Scissors Bundle

    In bonsai you will need a set of scissors to cut the foliage on top and the roots down below. Save when you buy both pairs with this bundle offer. Both tools are high quality Japanese Steel from one of the most trusted brands in bonsai. Click the image above to get your discount.

  • Protect Your Tool Investment

    When investing in high carbon steel tools it is wise to protect them with tool oil to maintain optimal performance. Save 10% when you bundle the tool oil and the applicator together. Click the image above to get your discount.

  • Cut Paste Bundle

    When we trunk chop or break branches during wiring it is best practise to get the wound covered straight away with cut paste or putty. Putty is used for larger wounds while paste is used for cracks, breaks and grafts. Get both today at a discount price when bought as a bundle. Click the image above to browse our range and select your pastes.

  • 100g Bonsai Wire Deal

    Wiring you bonsai trees will be a large part of your practise, make sure oyu have all the wire you need on hand and ready to go with our 100g bonsai wire deal. Add any 5 rolls to your cart and only pay for 4! Click The Image Above To Choose Your Rolls.

  • 500g Bonsai Wire Deal

    If you are a serious wiring machine and require a little extra wire on hand our 500g rolls are perfect, What makes them even better is if you add any 5x Rolls to your cart you will get $10 off. Stock up and be ready for any wiring job. Click The Image Above To Choose Your Rolls.

1 of 6
bonsai artist with bonsai tree

Author : Joshua Hooson

Joshua Hooson is an author and enthusiast of the art of bonsai. He has built his knowledge and understanding of bonsai through a combination of self-experience, lessons learned through hands-on practice, and extensive research. His articles reflect his passion for the subject and offer insights gained through his own personal journey in the world of bonsai. All the information provided in his works is a result of his own experiences and the knowledge he has gained through his studies. He is dedicated to sharing his love of bonsai and helping others grow in their understanding and appreciation of this ancient and beautiful art form.

Learn Bonsai Online With Josh