Bonsai Tree Care in Snow
Currently many countries in the world are experiencing extreme winter weather conditions. From China to the United Kingdom to the United States severe snow is disrupting normal life. But what effect does all this snow have on bonsai tree care?
The answer depends on the type of bonsai tree. Tropical bonsai should be kept indoors during the winter months and should not therefore be affected by snow. Temperate and hardy bonsai trees are designed to be kept outdoors. However, there are different approaches to their care in very cold conditions.
Temperate bonsai can either be brought indoors where they will continue growing or be left outside in a dormant condition. Hardy trees should not be brought into the indoor warmth.
It may be necessary to give some protection to your bonsai trees when they are outdoors during very cold periods.
Blanket of snow over soil
Last winter I know some bonsai enthusiasts lost some of their specimens because of the very cold conditions. The risk varies with the species and the stage of development.
Many established bonsai can survive several weeks under a blanket of snow. One of the reasons is that the soil is kept at an even temperature and thus the snow offers a blanket of protection.
Remember that it is possible for the soil in the bonsai pot to freeze and if this happens don’t water or the pot could crack (no joke if you’ve paid a lot of money for it!). The roots could also be damaged.
If you’re currently affected by the cold snap and are concerned about some of your bonsai trees you could take some precautions. Either move your trees into an unheated garage or cold room/area or cover the pot and tree with fleece.
This will protect your bonsai trees whilst still keeping them in the winter dormant state. Remember prevention is better than cure!
And if you’re in the southern hemisphere enjoy the sunshine and warmth!
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