Bonsai trees have evolved to grow without soil. On their native mountainsides, they don’t have dirt, yet they survive and thrive in competition with other plants. As a practice, bonsai cultivation has been refined and tweaked over the centuries.
Today, growers can trade some of their old habits for new ones, which allows them to go beyond soil. These alternatives include hydroponic and aeroponic systems.
Hydroponic systems are a way of creating an artificial environment where all moisture is provided from nutrients mixed with water that’s essential for promoting plant growth. This method has been researched extensively and can be especially beneficial in cases of greenhouse or extended bedding scenarios as it ensures adequate oxygenation for plant development
Aeroponic systems, on the other hand, provide suspension of roots with continuous water spray that supplies ample amounts of fresh air along with humidity levels required for healthy root structures and photosynthetic processes. This technique reduces the need for soil while allowing improved access to light sources needed by bonsai’s indoor growing environment.
But regardless of which system you choose, there’s one thing experts agree upon maintain strict attention to detail when selecting your substrate or growing medium, as this will determine potential pests or diseases your bonsai could pick up down the road. Good practices include regular checks for chemical compositions, dryness, and moisture levels, amongst other activities necessary for overall health benefits at every stage throughout its lifespan, including reporting periods. With higher nutrient values present from both hydroponic and aeroponic methods compared to traditional soil-based techniques, proper adjustments should also be taken.
Simply put: transitioning into these new systems done right is critical when aspiring for proper maintenance routine understandings that promote a better success rate than before!