Bonsai for Beginners: Your First Year with a Living Tree

Everything you need to know to keep your first bonsai alive, thriving, and growing into a beautiful miniature tree.

The most common question we get at Swartz's Organics is: "I've always wanted a bonsai, but I've killed every one I've tried." We hear you. Bonsai have a reputation for being difficult, but the truth is that most failures come from a few common mistakes that are completely avoidable.

The biggest killer of bonsai is incorrect watering. Not too much, not too little — but the right amount at the right time. The rule we teach in our classes: stick your finger an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, water thoroughly until water runs out the drainage holes. If it's still moist, wait another day.

The second biggest issue is light. Most indoor bonsai need more light than a typical windowsill provides. A south-facing window is ideal, or supplement with a grow light for 12-14 hours per day.

Come visit us and we'll walk you through everything in person. Or sign up for our Bonsai Basics class — we cover watering, light, pruning, and repotting in a hands-on 3-hour session.