How to Water a Bonsai Tree (Without Overdoing It)

Ask us what kills the most bonsai and the answer is not neglect. It is kindness. After 15 years of shipping bonsai from California, the number one problem we see is overwatering. The good news is that learning how to water a bonsai tree properly takes about two minutes.

Water when the soil says so, not the calendar

Forget watering every Monday. Push a finger about half an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, water. If it still feels damp, check again tomorrow. Small pots dry out faster than large ones, and a tree in a sunny window drinks more than one in a shaded office.

How to water a bonsai tree step by step

• Water slowly over the whole soil surface until it runs out of the drainage holes.
• Wait a minute, then water once more so the root ball is soaked through.
• Let the pot drain fully. Never leave a bonsai sitting in a saucer of water.
• Use room-temperature water. Rainwater is great, tap water is fine.

Signs you are getting it wrong

Yellow, soft leaves and soil that never dries usually mean too much water. Crispy leaf edges and soil pulling away from the pot mean too little. Catch either one early and most trees bounce back quickly.

Want a bonsai with no watering at all?

If a watering routine does not fit your life, our artificial bonsai trees give you the same calm, sculpted look with zero upkeep. And if you are ready for the real thing, browse our real bonsai trees and send us a message any time you have a care question.