Bonsai root bound potbound
Quick answer
If your Bonsai is root bound potbound, the most likely cause is: Bonsai roots become potbound over 2-3 years, compressing compost and reducing water drainage and air circulation, eventually starving the tree of essential resources and retarding foliage growth until death occurs if neglected.
Start here:
- 1. 1. Water compost thoroughly the day before repotting to hold rootball together
- 2. 2. Remove tree from pot and scrape away outer 1/3 of compost with root teaser, exposing roots without damaging them
Why Bonsai is root bound potbound
Bonsai roots become potbound over 2-3 years, compressing compost and reducing water drainage and air circulation, eventually starving the tree of essential resources and retarding foliage growth until death occurs if neglected.
How to help Bonsai that is root bound potbound
- 1
1. Water compost thoroughly the day before repotting to hold rootball together
- 2
2. Remove tree from pot and scrape away outer 1/3 of compost with root teaser, exposing roots without damaging them
- 3
3. Cut away half of exposed roots with root-cutters, especially thick taproots and any damaged sections
- 4
4. Soak new pot for several days, cover drainage holes with plastic mesh secured by wire
- 5
5. Position tree (off-center for oval pots, centered for round pots) on fresh compost bed, then fill with compost mixture
- 6
6. Secure rootball with wire threaded through drainage holes, tie over the rootball until roots develop
- 7
7. Water by standing pot in shallow water bowl until moisture reaches surface, then drain
Keep this Bonsai from ending up root bound potbound again
Repot every 2-3 years in spring when buds start to swell. Use well-draining compost mixture (1 part loam, 2 parts sphagnum peat, 2 parts granite grit). Never let compost dry completely during active growth.