Know Your Bonsai’s Needs Understand whether your bonsai is tropical, subtropical, or temperate. Tropical species need warm indoor care, while temperate ones require a dormant period outdoors.
Protect from Frost Keep temperate bonsai trees in a cool, frost-free environment like an unheated garage or shed. Frost can damage roots and branches, especially in small pots.
Monitor Watering Reduce watering during winter as bonsai use less water in dormancy. Keep the soil slightly moist but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Ensure Proper Lighting For indoor bonsai, place them near a south-facing window or use grow lights to provide sufficient light. Winter’s shorter days can reduce their light exposure.
Insulate the Roots For outdoor bonsai, mulch around the pot or bury it in the ground to insulate roots from extreme temperature changes.
Avoid Fertilizing Don’t fertilize your bonsai during winter dormancy. Wait until early spring when new growth begins to start feeding again.
Check for Pests and Diseases Inspect your bonsai regularly for pests or signs of disease. Winter can stress plants, making them more vulnerable to infestations.