In winter, bonsai trees may seem still and quiet. But beneath the surface, they’re alive. It’s a time of rest, dormancy, and preparation for springtime regrowth.
The goal is to slow a bonsai’s growth slightly to help achieve its desired shape. As the season changes and temperatures drop, so does their growth rate. Photosynthesis can only occur when days are longer than nights, while the opposite is true in winter. That means less food and energy resources are produced, putting brakes on bonsai’s growth.
Beneath the surface, active processes are happening as well; roots continue to grow and spread to find water and nutrients even in colder months; sap levels decrease; there’s an increased risk of fungal infection due to extended dampness; some leaves will yellow or drop at this time; burlap wraps persevere delicate varieties against frosts; some species go dormant altogether, shedding all foliage before new buds form in spring.
To manage your tree optimally during winter, carefully observe changes in their condition and adapt your watering routine accordingly — use cold water, so temperatures don’t shock delicate forms — keep them away from drafts, fireplaces, or other heat sources as these disrupt cause sudden awakening after dormancy period has settled in — monitor humidity levels too: desiccation can kill any plant but also excessive moisture might cause some minor diseases — provide adequate fertilizer once the soil warms up — regularly prune if needed – use direct sun exposure by day and indirect lighting at night to build up light reserves before they start growing again later on.
By taking these simple steps, you’ll keep your treasured bonsais healthy during the winter season until it resumes growing anew come springtime