How, when and why to repot

by Valentina Addante

You hear about it always, but have no idea what it means to repot ? We help you!

Let's start by explaining that repot in bonsai, consists in pruning the roots. An essential operation for the formation of a beautiful and healthy plant!

Repot allows the roots to have more space to multiply and capillarizzars. This results in a greater ability to assimilate nutritional elements for the plant.

How do you know the time has come? It's easy, just observe.

If when you water, the water does not penetrate as it should and the roots start to emerge from the ground, it is time to act!

Ok, now we realized we have a problem, but don't get carried away by the impulse! You can't repot in any season!

In general, you have to wait for the "vegetative rest of the plant" which changes between botanical variants.

Here is a brief outline:

• Deciduous -> in the period between when they lose their leaves and before they put the new ones
  
• Evergreens and conifers -> close to the vegetative start
• Tropical -> late spring

Know when it's time to act, get the right tools to operate!

You cannot not have:

• Kaneshin Repotting Sickle , use it to detach the soil adjacent to the pot, so you can easily flare your bonsai

• Three-pronged bonsai rake , to "comb" the roots of your bonsai, freeing them from the old and hardened soil

• Root pruning shears for effortless root cutting thanks to sturdy blades and comfortable handle
  

Now to work!

Here are the essential steps:

• Attach a drainage mesh to the holes under the pot with processing wire

• Create a drainage layer with pumice or akadama at the bottom of the pot

• Place the plant inside and anchor it to the pot, using wire for processing
  

• Fill the remaining space with soil specific to your bonsai

• Make sure you have compacted the soil well under the root ball with the help of a stick

• Water abundantly using a bonsai watering can

And repot served!