This question is by no means insignificant since by displaying your bonsai in an unsuitable place you can slow down its growth — even cause its death.
All bonsai are outdoor trees. Only tropical, subtropical, and even Mediterranean trees must be wintered in a warm or cool (not freezing) environment. You may like to create a special ‘nursery’ for overwintering. Native bonsai can live outdoors all the year round. From May until the first frosts all the less hardy bonsai can join them outside, but it is necessary to pay attention to the weather forecasts lest you are caught out by damaging weather conditions. In the event of strong winds, bonsai are lowered to the ground. Trees should be well spaced, they need light, and also air.
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Trees can filter sunlight and
provide moist air conditions
during hot summer days
Deciduous trees are happier in
shaded or half shaded areas of
the garden
Most conifers like
to grow in full sun
during the summer
Conifers don’t mind
heat reflected from
gravel
Grass provides good humidity
in the air and absorbs heat.
Vegetation like grasses
or shrubs will provide
humidity as well.
A latticed fence will reduce
strong winds, yet allow good
air circulation.
Shade
Some trees need shade: miniature trees during July and August, for example, transplanted trees, or weakened or sick trees. A good solution is to erect shading net that filters a good percentage of the sun’s rays. Don’t keep the trees under the net all the time, only as necessary.
The greenhouse
In a greenhouse it is necessary to pay attention to the watering needs of your trees. In winter, water only very moderately, because they are at rest. But you should note that, when there are sunny days it can be very hot inside the greenhouse. Open the doors and water if the soil mix seems too dry.
It might be considered a luxury, but it’s a useful accessory for the bonsai enthusiast. With dominant winds to the west, the greenhouse is assembled on an east-west axis. It’s anchored securely into the ground and often has three thicknesses of agricultural plastic, which filter the ultra violet light. Its role? To protect trees that frost would otherwise kill.. It enables you to work on your trees whatever the weather may be doing outside.
Watering
Watch your trees on a daily basis because they react to the specific conditions in your garden. There are also geographical differences that make a difference. You must take these things into account, so watering a bonsai varies according to the area in which you live.
Tropical trees
You can keep them inside, but give them plenty of light. Don’t allow them excessive heat, nor place them in a draught. Remember, too, the magnifying glass effect of the windows. Put them out of doors each time you have the opportunity, and as soon as the warm days arrive.
