How to grow bonsai with SERAMIS substrate: detailed instructions

Bonsai is the art of growing and shaping miniature trees in pots, originating from Japan. The art of bonsai not only shows the harmony between nature and humans but also speaks of the patience and creativity of the grower. 

In fact, growing bonsai is not too difficult but it also requires certain care techniques and a suitable environment for the tree. One of the effective options for growing bonsai is to use SERAMIS substrate Helps plants to be easier to care for, grow more beautifully and healthily.

Introducing SERAMIS substrate

SERAMIS substrate is a high-quality growing medium made from 100% natural clay from the Westerwald region (Germany). Through a high-temperature firing process on a modern production line, the clay is transformed into beautiful reddish-brown fired clay particles. 

With its porous structure, SERAMIS substrate has the ability to retain water, retain nutrients and circulate oxygen well. This helps the substrate to be durable and not lose its properties over time.

SERAMIS substrate is suitable for bonsai

Depending on the growth characteristics that need Choose the right substrate for the plant. With bonsai, the tree requires high root adhesion. When growing bonsai, it is necessary to choose a substrate that is uniform, well-drained and maintains moderate moisture. 

Durable, no loss over time, no compression

Compared with traditional soils, growing media SERAMIS® Spezial-S ubstrat für Kakteen und Sukkulenten helps keep the soil surface airy while still ensuring enough moisture and nutrients for the plant. This creates favorable conditions for the root system to develop and protect the health of the plant.

Advantages of SERAMIS substrate when growing bonsai

• Durable, no loss over time, no compression
• Ideal water and nutrient storage
• Fast water absorption and distribution
• Clean, safe, hygienic, completely vegan
• Prevents damage from egg-laying insects
• Easy, convenient, time-saving plant care

Outstanding advantages of SERAMIS indoor plant growing medium

Instructions for growing bonsai using SERAMIS substrate

How to choose bonsai varieties

Depending on the environmental conditions where you plan to place the tree, choose a tree with suitable growth characteristics.

• Outdoors – sun-loving species: Elm, Pine, Oak, Cypress, Cedar, Barringtonia…
• Indoors: Gardenia, Acanthopanax, Sapodilla, Ficus, Snow Plum, Jade, Plum Blossom, Ganoderma, Cistanche, Fujian tea, Sanh...

Prepare bonsai growing tools

• Pot: Depending on the size, shape and position of the tree, choose the appropriate one. You should choose a pot with good drainage such as terracotta, ceramic or porcelain pots.
• Growing medium: SERAMIS indoor growing medium.
• Bonsai tree: Seedling or grown tree.
• Other tools: root rake, scissors, pliers, wire (copper/zinc), a small stick.

How to treat trees and roots before planting bonsai

• Remove the bonsai from the pot, use a root rake to remove all the old soil.
• Use scissors to remove old roots or rotten roots. Be careful not to prune more than 30% of the number of roots on the tree.
• You can trim branches and leaves to shape the bonsai tree as desired.

How to grow bonsai with SERAMIS substrate

• Step 1: Pour a layer of SERAMIS substrate about 1/3 of the pot to create drainage.
• Step 2: Place the bonsai in the pot. Thread the wire to secure the bonsai.
• Step 3: Gently add SERAMIS substrate around until the pot is full. Use a small stick to poke evenly into the gaps to ensure the substrate has penetrated all the cracks and grooves inside the pot.
• Step 4: Water the plant to keep it moist. Stop watering as soon as you see water flowing out of the drainage hole at the bottom of the pot.

If your bonsai does not need to be repotted or soiled but the soil surface is full of moss and dry leaves, you can pour a thin layer of SERAMIS substrate on the soil surface. The characteristic reddish brown color of SERAMIS substrate will help elevate your bonsai pot, making it look more eye-catching and aesthetically pleasing. Most importantly, SERAMIS substrate will help the tree retain moisture, nutrients, and prevent fungi and pests better while still ensuring ventilation for the tree.

How to care after planting bonsai

Other notes:

Prune regularly to shape and maintain the size of the tree. Prune when the tree is most resilient, such as spring and fall. Do not prune too deeply to avoid damaging the tree.