Indoor Bonsai Care: Repotting, Pruning, and Long-Term Maintenance

What Is Indoor Bonsai?

Dwarfed trees (typically ficus, jade, schefflera, or subtropical species) trained through pruning and wiring to mimic mature trees in miniature. Not a special species—a horticultural practice.

When to Repot

Every 2–3 years, early spring before growth resumes. Signs: water drains slowly, roots circle pot, soil breaks down. Repotting refreshes soil, trims roots, prevents root-binding.

Step-by-Step Repotting

1. Remove tree: tilt pot, tap sides, pull gently by trunk base.
2. Clean rootball: remove moss/top dressing. Comb out roots with chopstick/root hook—work from edge inward. Don't pull.
3. Reduce root mass: cut thick, circling roots (up to 1/3). Preserve fine feeder roots. Trim dangling roots to fit new pot with 1/2" clearance.
4. Prepare pot: clean, cover drainage holes with mesh. Add grit layer, then bonsai soil (akadama/pumice/lava blend).
5. Position tree: build soil mound, set trunk slightly off-center for visual interest. Spread roots radially.
6. Anchor: wire through drainage holes, twist over rootball. Remove wires after 3 months.
7. Fill: add soil, tap pot to settle, chopstick to eliminate air pockets. Top with moss/gravel.
8. Water thoroughly. Place in bright, indirect light. No fertilizer for 4 weeks.

Ongoing Care

• Water: When surface soil dry—soak fully, drain fully. Frequency varies by species, pot, season.
• Light: Bright indirect; some direct morning sun. Rotate for even growth.
• Prune: Structural in winter; maintenance (pinch new growth) throughout season.
• Wire: Shape branches; remove before wire bites bark (3–6 months).
• Fertilize: Dilute balanced fertilizer weekly during growth; monthly in winter.