bonsaiTALK Community - View Single Post - Newbie to Bonsai needs advice

Hi Pink,

I have a couple of Japanese Hollies that I've owned for about 18 months now. Mine stayed outside all winter without harm, and obviously all summer too. They can be kept indoors, as they tolerate lower light levels than a lot of species, but I'd be inclined to keep them where nature intended.

The growing season is from Spring till Winter, usually all the while that temperature is about 8-10c. During the winter months, they slow right down due to the cold and reduced daylight time. However, if you bring the tree inside for the winter, or even keep it inside 365 days a year - then the tree will not have a dormancy.

As far as feeding goes, follow the manufacturers directions if it is a specific bonsai fertilizer. If its just a regular feed, like babybio etc, mix at half the recommended dosage. You can also use slow release organic fertilizers too (rape seed oil pellets). Ideally your tree will be in a fast draining soil, so that water doesn't pool on the surface when being watered. Allow the soil to dry to just being damp before watering again.

If you have any more questions, don't hesitate to ask.

All the best,

Aaron

28-Mar-2006	#4
Aaron_K bonsaiTALK Master Chief Join Date: Mar-2004 Country: England USDA Zone: 8 AHS Heat Zone: 2-3 Posts: 1,477	Hi Pink, I have a couple of Japanese Hollies that I've owned for about 18 months now. Mine stayed outside all winter without harm, and obviously all summer too. They can be kept indoors, as they tolerate lower light levels than a lot of species, but I'd be inclined to keep them where nature intended. The growing season is from Spring till Winter, usually all the while that temperature is about 8-10c. During the winter months, they slow right down due to the cold and reduced daylight time. However, if you bring the tree inside for the winter, or even keep it inside 365 days a year - then the tree will not have a dormancy. As far as feeding goes, follow the manufacturers directions if it is a specific bonsai fertilizer. If its just a regular feed, like babybio etc, mix at half the recommended dosage. You can also use slow release organic fertilizers too (rape seed oil pellets). Ideally your tree will be in a fast draining soil, so that water doesn't pool on the surface when being watered. Allow the soil to dry to just being damp before watering again. If you have any more questions, don't hesitate to ask. All the best, Aaron __________________ Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail. - Muriel Strode Vulpes pilum mutat, non mores! "A fox may change its skin but never its character"