Q: Caring for a Bonsai Tree on Vacation

Question:  Is caring for a Bonsai tree while I’m on vacation difficult?  Do I need to hire someone to take care of my plant while I’m gone?

~Louise in Tulsa, OK

Hi Louise and thank you for your question!  The answer to your question really depends upon how long you intend to be gone.  If your trip is short (3-4 days), you can get away without a Bonsai-sitter.  You can follow this simple method:

1. Fill your bathtub or sink with 1-2″ of water.  Place your Bonsai tree in the water and let it soak up the water through the bottom of the pot for 15-20 minutes. 
2. Remove your bonsai pot from the water and allow it to drain for 5 minutes.
2. Wrap your pot with plastic wrap to hold in the moisture.

For slightly longer periods (5-6 days) you can put your pot in a tray of water which is approximately 1/4″ from the top edge of your Bonsai pot. 

The Bonsai should then be placed in a spot which receives only a few hours of filtered morning sunlight.  Also – keep your Bonsai away from air vents.  The best spot is one where the temperature and humidity will be consistent day or night.

Any longer than 6 days and you should get a Bonsai-sitter.  In order to help your Bonsai-care taker determine when your Bonsai need watering, I would suggest you pick up a moisture meter which will show exactly how moist or dry the Bonsai is and exactly when it needs watering.  Here is the one that we use on our Bonsai:

Moisture MeterIn caring for your Bonsai, knowing when to water is essential to the successful maintenance of the tree. Whether you are a beginner or expert, a moisture meter is a vital tool and should be used to take the guess-work out of watering. We use them every day. Great for bedding plants as well as all houseplants. Shipping free of charge with tree order.

The most important thing you need to remember is that your Bonsai craves consistencency.  The less you change the routine, the better your Bonsai will grow.

Have fun on your trip!
~Sensei

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