WeBonsai
Guides

Bonsai how-to guides

Practical, step-by-step technique guides for every stage of growing bonsai, from your first watering can to your first wiring job.

Beginners

How to Choose Your First Bonsai TreeIndoor vs Outdoor Bonsai: What's the DifferenceBonsai Tools for Beginners: What You Actually Need to StartHow Much Does a Bonsai Tree CostCommon Beginner Mistakes That Kill BonsaiHow Long Does It Take to Grow a Bonsai

Watering

How to Water a Bonsai Tree CorrectlyHow Often Should You Water BonsaiBonsai Overwatering vs Underwatering: How to Tell the DifferenceBest Water for Bonsai: Tap, Rain, or FilteredWatering Bonsai on Vacation: What to Do by Trip LengthSelf-Watering Trays and Systems for Bonsai

Fertilizing

How to Fertilize a Bonsai TreeOrganic vs Synthetic Bonsai FertilizerNPK Ratios Explained for BonsaiWhen to Stop Fertilizing Bonsai for WinterHow to Avoid Fertilizer Burn on BonsaiHomemade Bonsai Fertilizer Ideas

Pruning

How to Prune a Bonsai Tree for BeginnersMaintenance Pruning vs Structural PruningBest Time of Year to Prune BonsaiBonsai Pruning Tools and How to Use ThemBonsai Cut Paste Wound Sealant: When to Use It and How to Apply ItBonsai Defoliation Technique Explained: When, Why, and Which Trees

Wiring

How to Wire a Bonsai TreeChoosing the Right Wire Gauge for BonsaiHow Long to Leave Wire on a BonsaiRemoving Wire Without Damaging BarkGuy Wires and Other Bonsai Styling AidsCommon Bonsai Wiring Mistakes to Avoid

Repotting

How to Repot a Bonsai Tree Step by StepWhen to Repot a Bonsai: Signs and TimingBonsai Root Pruning During RepottingBonsai Pot Size and Depth GuideBare-Rooting vs Partial Root Work for Bonsai

Soil

Bonsai Soil Basics: What Makes a Good MixAkadama, Pumice, and Lava Rock in Bonsai SoilHow to Make Your Own Bonsai Soil MixRepotting Soil vs TopdressingSigns Your Bonsai Soil Needs Replacing

General guidance based on 20+ years of practice. Every tree and every climate is different — when in doubt, ask us.