Bonsai calendar

This table reveals Bonsai care needed per month, around the year, for the Northern hemisphere. These care guidelines are general and mostly applicable for outdoor trees; specific guidelines per species of tree but also per geographical region should have priority.

 

January

• During the winter outdoor trees need to be well protected from freezing temperatures by covering them with insulating material (like layers of leaves, foam, etc.).
• Control deciduous trees (like the oak) for insects.

 

February

• Keep checking on insects; outdoor trees will consume little water but watering might be required in the absence of rain.

 

March

• Some deciduous trees start to grow again, like the ulmus.
• Most trees can now be left unprotected from freezing temperatures, possible insulating materials can be removed in late March (though depending on your locale climate).
• Most pine trees can be repotted late march.

 

April

• Most trees start growing, only a few tree species take more time (like the oak tree).
• The growth of trees indicates fertilization can be resumed, and trees can now be trained, pruned and repotted.
• For most trees this is the best time to start wiring; but mind that trees grow rapidly so check on your wiring so it doesn't grow into the bark.

 

May

• Trees that started growing late (Oak etc) can now be trained and repotted.
• Fertilization is important now.

 

June

• Regular pruning of new growth is necessary
• New growth will result in the trunk and branches growing thicker.

 

July

• The warmest month of the year; mind to check for watering regularly.

 

August

• A good moment to repot pine trees.
• Check your trees for bugs and insects.

 

September

• Collect seeds from trees; this is the moment!
• Fertilize outdoor trees for the last time, hardening off their growth and preparing them for the coming winter.

 

October

• Autumn colors for outdoor trees are spectacular
• Protect your trees from cold nights.

 

November

• Keep your trees well protected from freezing temperatures.

 

December

• Keep checking your tree; they might require watering in the absence of rain.

 

 

More information

General guidelines can be found in our Bonsai care section.