Repotting is a very essential part of bonsai. Repotting in bonsai involves pruning the roots and then repotting them. You can repot your bonsai in a new pot or in the same pot after you have pruned the roots. Repotting is essential in bonsai because after a certain period of time a bonsai becomes pot bound. When a bonsai has become pot bound, it will not be able to grow new feeder roots. This means that the bonsai will not be able to get its nutrients.

For a bonsai enthusiast it is important to know when to repot, how often to repot, and how to repot. Here we will discuss the how part. Repotting is simple if you follow the instructions.

First Step

Before you repot your bonsai make sure that you have everything ready. Have the soil ready and if you are going to use a new pot make sure you have prepared it for planting. For this you need to cover the drainage hole with a plastic mesh and secure the mesh with bonsai wire. You would want to ensure that your bonsai soil has all the nutrients and is free draining. Do not use ordinary garden soil or regular potting compost for your bonsai. Once your bonsai soil and container is ready you are ready for the next step.

Second Step

The second step involves cleaning up your bonsai. This involves pruning any unwanted leaves and branches. If you are repotting an outdoor plant, make sure that it is placed undercover for several weeks prior to repotting. This way the soil will be relatively dry at the time of repotting and it will be easier for you to remove the plant from the pot.

Third Step

Once you have the root ball out, you need to remove the soil from it. This can be done by hand or you can use a nylon scrubbing brush. You should brush away the soil from the trunk and take every precaution not to damage the roots. Use a fine bristled paintbrush to remove soil stuck to the roots.

Fourth Step

The next step involves combing the roots to straighten them out. Use a pointed stick or a chopstick for the purpose. Prune the excess circling roots. The aim is to remove 1/3 of the overall root mass. Carefully examine the roots and if you find any diseased or dead roots, you should remove them.

Final Step

Lay a layer of grit at the bottom of the container and then add the bonsai soil. Position your bonsai into the container and then add soil where needed. Your bonsai will need extra care after it has been repotted. After some time you will see new foliage on your bonsai and you now know that you have done a good job at repotting your bonsai.