Kodama Blog

How to water, prune, repot, wire and rescue your bonsai, explained plainly, with the horticulture and timing behind every step.

how often to water bonsai

How Often Should You Water a Bonsai Tree?

There is no fixed schedule. Water a bonsai when the top half inch of soil is dry, soak until it drains, and let the mix dry before the next round.

Read the guide → June 9, 2026
bonsai losing leaves

Why Is My Bonsai Losing Leaves?

Seasonal leaf drop is normal, but sudden heavy loss usually means a watering problem, a stressful move, or pests. Match the pattern to the cause before acting.

Read the guide → June 2, 2026
how to prune bonsai

How Do You Prune a Bonsai Tree?

Maintenance pruning keeps a bonsai shape in the growing season, structural pruning builds it in dormancy. Use sharp tools and never cut more than a third at once.

Read the guide → May 26, 2026
when to repot bonsai

When Should You Repot a Bonsai Tree?

Repot when roots fill the pot, not on a fixed schedule. Early spring before bud burst is best. Trim up to a third of the roots and refresh the soil.

Read the guide → May 19, 2026
identify bonsai species

How Do You Identify a Bonsai Species?

Identify a bonsai by its leaves or needles first, then bark, habit and flowers. Species decides watering, light, repotting and whether it lives indoors or out.

Read the guide → May 12, 2026
best bonsai for beginners

What Is the Best Bonsai Tree for Beginners?

Chinese elm, ficus, juniper and jade are the easiest starter bonsai. Match the species to where you can keep it, and learn watering before styling.

Read the guide → May 5, 2026
how to wire bonsai

How Do You Wire a Bonsai Tree?

Wrap aluminum or copper wire at a 45-degree angle, about a third the branch thickness, then bend gently. Remove it before the wire cuts into the bark.

Read the guide → April 28, 2026
bonsai turning yellow

Why Is My Bonsai Turning Yellow?

Yellowing is usually about water or light. Overwatering and root rot lead, followed by underwatering, low light and nutrient shortage. Check soil moisture first.

Read the guide → April 21, 2026