How to look after your bonsai

The ancient art of bonsai has been traced back to the sixth century when wealthy Japanese would decorate their homes with these miniature trees. Today, bonsai are popular in Australia and throughout the world for their quirky looks and calming effects. 

To help out those wanting to grow the perfect bonsai, Angie Thomas, Horticulture consultant to Yates, has put together her top tips.

Ensure your bonsai gets the right amount of sunshine. Most outdoor bonsai plants should be placed in a sheltered position that receives morning sun and afternoon shade. Indoor bonsai plants prefer a brightly lit spot indoors that's protected from direct sunlight.

Bonsai like to be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Bonsai plants have a very small root system that can dry out quickly, so it's important to keep plants well-watered, particularly during hot dry weather. 

Bonsai can be pruned and wired into beautiful shapes. Use small sharp secateurs or scissors to remove any dead or unwanted branches and wires can be wrapped around stems to train them into living works of art.

Ensure you fertilise your bonsai with Yates Thrive Soluble All Purpose Plant Food, especially during their growing season from early spring to mid-autumn.