repotting root bound bonsai :( - tips?

Discussion in 'Indoor and Greenhouse Plants' started by violetgreen, Apr 25, 2011.

  1. violetgreen

    violetgreen Member

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    Hello all!

    It occurred to me today that I should probably repot a bonsai I've had for years and years before it gets too root bound in its original pot. I don't have a pot for it yet, but I gently tilted it out a little to see how bad it was and it's definitely a TIGHT root clump in the perfect shape of its unique pot. What's the best way to break this up a little without hurting the plant before transplanting? The tree is still very much alive if that impacts this at all. Thanks!! :)
     
  2. Ron B

    Ron B Paragon of Plants 10 Years

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    Re: repotting root bound plant - tips?

    Part of the typical maintenance routine for bonsai is annual trimming of the roots and replacement of part of the potting soil. After the root system is reduced in size, chop sticks may even be employed to push fresh soil among them.
     
  3. violetgreen

    violetgreen Member

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    Re: repotting root bound plant - tips?

    Thanks for your reply!! I admit I've been a bad bonsai mom. :( How do I trim the roots?
     
  4. violetgreen

    violetgreen Member

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    especially having not done so for so long?
     
  5. Ron B

    Ron B Paragon of Plants 10 Years

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    Maybe Google "bonsai repotting", this would probably even bring up pictures.
     

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