When Do Bonsai Plants Need Repotting?

Each bonsai requires its own repotting schedule.

Repot your bonsai at the right time and your bonsai will flourish. Repot your bonsai at the wrong time and it can succumb to certain death. Only the bonsai will tell when the right time is to repot.

Variations

Your bonsai's repotting requirements will depend on the needs of its specific species, as well as its growing environment, health and age. In general, younger bonsai plants are usually repotted more frequently than older trees, adjusting for vigor.

Root Bound

Vigorously growing bonsai plants can quickly outgrow their potting containers. As this happens, the root system becomes root bound, filling the entire container. As a result, the bonsai begins to starve as there are little, if any, nutrients available within the container. At this point, immediate repotting is essential and should be completed during the upcoming dormancy period.

Pruning

Successful bonsai requires a balance between what is above the surface and what is below the surface. If you complete a hard pruning of your bonsai's foliage, branches and stems, you must hard prune its roots to balance its growth and energy. With root pruning comes repotting.

The Basics

In general, bonsai plants should be repotted during their dormancy period, which usually falls between late fall and early spring. The plant should be repotted about once every two to three years or sooner if it becomes root bound. Not all bonsai plants will tolerate repotting during dormancy periods. Therefore, it is important that you understand the needs of your bonsai before beginning the process.

References

• Bonsai for Beginners: Repotting Your Bonsai
• Bonsai Empire: Repotting Bonsai Trees
• Bonsai4me.com: When to Repot Your Bonsai
• Evergreen Garden Works: Root Pruning