1. Overwatering

Soil for bonsai is usually designed to drain quickly, and overwatering can cause root suffocation and rot. Watering frequency should be adjusted based on soil wetness rather than a fixed schedule.

Example: For pine bonsai, watering should be done when the soil surface is dry to a depth of 1-2 cm to avoid watering before it is completely dry.

2. Using the wrong soil

Choosing the right soil is crucial to the health of your bonsai. The soil needs to have good drainage and the right nutrients.

Example: Azalea bonsai often uses Kanuma soil, an acidic soil that is very beneficial to azaleas. To improve water retention and provide more nutrients, you can mix Kanuma soil with Akadama soil in a ratio of 5:4.

3. Ignoring the need for fertilization

Bonsai require regular fertilization because the amount of soil is limited and nutrients are consumed quickly. Excessive fertilization may cause salt accumulation and harm the plant's root system.

Example: Azalea bonsai should use a slow-release fertilizer during the spring and fall growing seasons, spreading it evenly over the soil surface and watering to ensure the fertilizer dissolves and is evenly distributed. Fertilization should be stopped during the plant's period of low activity or dormancy (winter) to avoid excess nutrients and possible damage to the roots.

4. Over-pruning

Proper pruning can help bonsai maintain its shape and health, but over-pruning can damage the plant and affect its growth and recovery.

Example: For black pine bonsai, light pruning should be done in late spring to remove overly long new branches, rather than heavily cutting off new growth, so that enough leaf volume can be retained to support the plant's photosynthesis and growth.

5. Ignoring lighting needs

Note: Different bonsai plants have different light requirements. Insufficient light will cause the plant to grow slowly and the leaves to have dull color. The right lighting must be arranged according to the specific needs of the plant.

Example: Red Pine Bonsai requires about 2 hours of direct sunlight per day. If placed indoors or in an overly shady location, its growth will be affected and the needles may become sparse and faded.

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