The Bonsai trees enter the dormancy period as they harden up by dropping off leaves and lessening moisture loss. It is essential to understand that you need not overprotect the bonsai trees during this period by placing them indoors. Different bonsai varieties have different temperature thresholds by Encinitas tree pruning services.
There are four varieties of Bonsai that are categorized based on cold hardiness; these are:
- Tropical
- Semi-tropical
- Temperate
- Hard
It is the tropical category of bonsais, which need to be protected from cold temperatures. You can quickly grow them indoors, especially during the winter season. If the temperature drops below 60 °F, it is recommended to shift the tropical bonsai plants inside.
On the other hand, the semi-tropical category of bonsai trees can handle moderate frost and cold temperatures for a restricted period. It is the temperate bonsai tree type which is best at tackling freezing temperature without letting any harm to the roots.
Tips for Bonsai Tree Protection in Winter
Most of the trees spread across different parts of the world are usually subjected to temperature change close to 15 °F and below during the winter season. Such trees’ roots run deeper within the soil and therefore face no trouble to withstand freezing temperatures. However, for plants such as Bonsai which are placed in shallow containers, it is essential to offer additional shielding in winter as its essential for bonsai tree care. Unlike certain varieties like Banyan tree bonsai, all other species need precise care tips to maintain steady growth during the cold season.
Some of the vital bonsai tree care & safety tips during winters include:
- It is recommended to keep your plants and trees in a greenhouse during the winter season, especially when you already live in a colder area. In case a greenhouse is not available, try positioning styrofoam covers all over the pots for adding protection to the roots.
- During the dormant phase, ensure your bonsai trees aren’t exposed to more extended periods of high temperatures. As the tree picks up the pace with its growth, it turns susceptible to freezing temperatures. For maintaining the dormancy of bonsai trees, you can set up greenhouses as they help in warming the plants during bright winter days.
- At the time of overwintering, it is vital to keep a good check on your bonsai trees. Watering should occur only when the soil dries out; restrict the watering pattern during dormancy, the plants already follow moisture retention. You can again put your bonsai trees outside during the spring season but only after allowing the late frosts to settle and not hamper new growth.
Bonsai Growing Tips in Winter
- It is sensible to cover bonsais using plastic spread over a cloth. Introduction to direct plastic works to conduct temperature. The moment the sun rises, you have to remove the cloth along with the plastic to prevent the leaves from burning.
- Always keep a check on the bonsai species you wish to grow in your home garden and see whether or not they are suitable to be placed indoors or outdoors during winters. For instance, if you develop a tropical bonsai species, make sure you move it indoors or put it in a greenhouse as the plants expect hotter temperatures.
- If you are letting the Bonsai grow outside in winters, do analyze the watering pattern. Do remember that your bonsai tree does not require much water in the dormancy period. Look for the soil to dry out and add water to keep the plant replenished.
- You can take the Bonsai out from its existing container and plant it directly in your garden soil. Such action is recommended as the roots receive maximum protection since it’s now totally covered in soil.
- If your garden lacks space for planting the bonsai tree, transfer the plant to a significantly larger pot filled with fresh garden soil. Ensure the roots of the bonsai tree are dug 2-3 inches from the soil surface.
- Prune all branches which possess yellow or pigmented leaves. To keep the shape of bonsai trees in check, it is essential to trim the branches. Banyan tree bonsai and several other species of Bonsai require timely pruning actions.
Bonsai trees’ safety tips during the winter season are very clearly stated in the pointers mentioned above. You can also receive better insights from gardening experts who will help you sustain bonsai tree growth during the cold season.
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