Funny Nature & Travel Art & Stage Going Viral Science Greetings Inspirational

Edit Profile Recently Viewed Favorites

Main > Tips & DIY > Tips, Life Hacks and DIY

A Guide to Growing Bonsai Fruit Trees

Edited By: Jake R.

Add to Favorites In Favorites

Español

Font Size:

A+ A-

If you’ve ever had a piece of fruit, right after it was picked from the tree, you know that it beats store-bought fruit any day of the week. However, what do you do if you don’t have enough space for a tree? The answer is the ancient Japanese art of bonsai, or growing a miniature tree in a pot. While bonsai trees produce smaller limbs and leaves, they will still produce full-sized fruits, making them a perfect solution for people who still want to enjoy the taste of fresh fruits in a confined space.

Before you begin

It is important to remember that bonsai training is difficult, and you are more likely to succeed if you choose a tree that is native to your area, or that can handle your local weather well. It is also important to allow the seedling to grow and become strong before you start cutting and training it. Despite the fact that bonsai trees grow faster, don’t expect to be harvesting fruit in a couple of months. Some trees might need around five years before you can harvest anything.

Preparations

First and foremost, select a tree you’d like to grow.
You can start with a seed, a seedling, or a cutting.
Seeds and seedlings can be procured from a local nursery.
Select a proper container. If your tree roots to the sides, a wider pot it recommended.
Placing rocks in the soil forces the roots to split. Split roots are weaker, which contributes to the miniaturization.
The soil you use needs to be rich. Consult with your local nursery about what type of soil will best fit your tree.

Planting the tree

Make sure that the pot has draining holes. If it doesn’t, drill a few in, and cover them with a screen to prevent soil loss.
Before planting the tree, make sure its roots are not tangled, remove any brown or decaying roots, then find the main root, or “taproot”, and cut it off. Be as gentle as possible when handling the roots.
Line the bottom of the pot with soil and rocks, then add the tree.
Spread the roots out and cover them with more soil until it is leveled with the top of the pot.
Water the soil thoroughly and allow excess water to drain.
If you want to complete the look, you can add moss to the top soil for aesthetic purposes.

Care

Trees need a lot of light, so make sure your tree is in a well-lit area.
Watering should be done when the soil is almost dried out.
Initially, allow the tree to take root in its new environment and grow a little before starting to prune it. This can take a few months but will greatly contribute to the tree’s overall health and growth rate.
Use scissors to maintain the shape of your tree. Prune from time to time, focusing on branches that look less-healthy.
Fertilizing should be done periodically. During the winter, use low-nitrogen fertilizer. In the spring, use nitrogen-rich fertilizer, and in the summer use a balanced fertilizer.

Shaping

Shaping is performed to give the tree a weathered look, without damaging it.

Use a metal wire to control the direction of growth. The wire mustn’t be too tight and will need periodic replacement as the tree grows. Wiring is done by looping a copper wire around the top of the trunk, then slowly looping the wire around the trunk and down to the base. If you wish to have certain branches bend a certain way, use the wire to direct them to where you want them to go.

BONUS: Here's a Simple Video Guide For Beginners

Like Next Post Send Share WhatsApp

Copy Link

Did you mean:

Continue With: Facebook Google

By continuing, you agree to our T&C and Privacy Policy

Report copyright infringement

Print this content

You may also like:

Health

The Tasty Stew That Helps Dr. Jonathan Rasouli Maintain His Memory

This Doctor Shares a Recipe He Makes For Brain Health

Dr. Rasouli has a dish he prepares for himself every week that might look like just another homemade stew with vegetables and lentils, but there’s a good chance it’s the smartest meal you’ll put in your pot and stomach soon.

Health

What to Drink After a Meal for Better Digestion

What You Should Drink After a Meal for Better Digestion

What should we drink after a meal for better digestion?

Tips, Life Hacks and DIY

A Simple Formula for Healthier, More Affordable Meals

Ever Hear of the 54321 Shopping Method to Buying Groceries?

Grocery shopping has become increasingly stressful as prices continue to climb. Many shoppers find themselves struggling to balance their budgets while still putting nutritious food on the table. But a straightforward shopping strategy is helping peo

Recipes & Drinks

3 Winning Banana-Based Delicacies Everyone Will Love

From creamy puddings to decadent cakes and vegan cookies, these dishes showcase the banana's endless possibilities.

Tips, Life Hacks and DIY

7 Food Allergy Mistakes You're Probably Making

7 Sneaky Food Allergy Mistakes You're Probably Making

Even the most careful among us can get caught off guard. Here's where hidden allergens tend to lurk — and how to stay safe.

Recipes & Drinks

Make Delicious Mango Roll-Ups In 5 Easy Steps

There’s nothing better than homemade snacks. This sugar-free recipe for dried mango roll-ups is so easy; it only has 5-steps.

Health

The Surprising Lung Cancer Finding Hiding in Your Fruit Bowl

Does Eating Fruits and Vegetables Lead to Lung Cancer?

Before you toss out your apples and broccoli, though, let's take a careful look at what this research actually found—and what it doesn't tell us.

Recipes & Drinks

A Viral Egg Poaching Hack That Actually Works

The Viral Egg Poaching Hack That Actually Works

Poached eggs have a reputation for being tricky. The swirling water, the wispy whites floating everywhere, the timing - it's enough to put anyone off. But a simple trick that's been making the rounds online might just change all of that.

Send Comment

Related Topics: food, fruit, do it yourself, gardening, bonsai tree, bonsai trees, tips and tricks

Quizzes

What Do You Know About the USSR?

Whether you're a history buff or just curious, get ready to test your knowledge of a world driven by loyalty, fear, and iron-fisted leadership.

World Geography Test

Will you be able to identify what connects distant countries, famous cities and islands at the end of the world? Answer the questions and find out how sharp and accurate your geographical and general knowledge is.