When used properly, bonsai can be a very good indoor ornament both as a focal point of the room or as a conversation piece on a shelf, a side table or on top of the fireplace. Bonsai needs special care and there are ways to keep it strong and healthy without the benefit of outdoor elements. Here's how:



Indoor bonsai Not all bonsai plants will thrive indoors as ornaments, so choose tropical plants and trees for the job. These can grow well indoors and only need to be let out to soak up the sun several hours a day. You can also let them out during the late spring and in summer and keep them indoors when the temperatures begin to drop.

During colder months when temperatures are low, fill a shallow tray with a layer of tiny pebbles or gravel and add water. Place your bonsai pot on top and let it soak up the extra moisture as the water evaporates. If your house is heated, this will provide enough humidity to keep your soil moist.

Training Chances are, you'll be buying bonsai that's already trained. If it is, then best leave it alone. It will do well with just a little trimming and pruning.

Find sunny spots If you live in an apartment building, you might have to find ways for your indoor bonsai to get enough sunlight, so find areas in your home where light can get in - usually near windows, terraces or patios. Place your bonsai in these areas to give them enough time under the sun (best light is early morning and afternoon) and just put them back in their place after a few hours.

Fertilize Your indoor bonsai lives on a small amount of soil that its pot contains, so it's important to provide it with nutrients through fertilizers. Use fertilizers once a month or so and don't use full strength. It would also be a good idea to mix fertilizers with water and mist your bonsai every two months.

Choosing pots Use shallow pots for displaying bonsai indoors. As ornaments, they will do well if their size balances with the pot, so don't get a pot that is too deep or too wide. Make sure the pot has draining holes and a saucer, with a piece of small screen in between.

Pests and insects Even if your bonsai lives indoors, insects and pests will still find it. Check your plant periodically for any signs of infestations and use a pesticide if it's necessary. Otherwise, just wipe the leaves clean gently with a soft, damp cloth to remove bugs.