by Lee Dobbins

Many people choose to decorate the interior of their homes with bonsai trees due to their uniqueness. However, these plants are equally beautiful when used as part of your outdoor landscaping. Outdoor bonsai trees are true bonsais. The main differences between indoor and outdoor bonsai trees is the scale of the outdoor tree and the challenges it will face in the outside environment.

The types of trees that are usually kept indoors and flourish are a kind of tropical tree. The indoor environment is what they are best suited for. It does not hurt them to be placed outdoors for short periods of time in the spring or late summer.

There are just a few species of Outdoor Bonsais. Of these, there are 2 categories, evergreen and deciduous. Juniper and Pine are examples of evergreens, which are dormant during cold weather with new growth occurring in the spring. Deciduous trees lose their leaves during the fall but do not become dormant.

When planted outdoors, Bonsai trees can be placed in containers or directly into the ground. Outdoor Bonsais should not be kept indoors for long periods of time, but they will need protection outdoors because of frost. It is crucial to keep your outdoor Bonsai well watered. Check to see if the soil is damp underneath its dry surface.

Also, due to the change in the environment, these trees may experience some changes after being purchased by an individual. Before making any major changes for the tree, give it several weeks to acclimate. Some of these changes could be yellow leaves which might fall off. But in most cases it is only temporary.

Keeping these trees properly trimmed and pruned is important to their health. Repotting will also need to be done. When the roots have filled the pot to the limit, the tree will need a bigger pot to continue growing.

Correct watering of your outdoor Bonsai is important. If your bonsai is potted, you can simply put your finger about one inch into the soil to check the water the level. If you find that the soil feels dry, water your tree until you notice that the water is flowing from under the pot. If your tree is planted in the ground, you will need to gauge the amount of water needed based upon the amount of rain in the area, or you can simply use your personal judgment. During winter, watering outdoor bonsai trees should be done with care. If it is under 45 degrees, do not water your tree. It could cause growth to stop and ruin your tree. If the trees require watering during the winter, the temperature needs to be at least 45 degrees or the tree could be damaged. The tree could freeze and stop growing if this is not done properly.

Bonsai trees can be grown successfully indoors or outdoors. Both locations are popular. Hobbyists especially enjoy the unique beauty of the trees as part of a well landscaped yard.

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