Misho is a Japanese term that refers to planting, growing, and cultivating bonsai from a seed. The advantage of growing bonsai this way is that you can have complete control over how you would want the plants to grow and flourish.
If you are interested to learn the basics of planting and growing a bonsai tree, below is a guide for you to follow.
Like any other activity, you first need to have the right materials and equipment. This will help ensure that your trees will get the proper treatment and care, allowing them to grow to their full glory. With that said, here are the things every beginner should have:
There is a particular type of soil that is ideal for growing a tree. To ensure that your tree will grow healthily and prosperously, make sure to use high-quality bonsai soil. If you are unsure whether you have the right type, ask us or check out our soil range.
When starting to grow trees from seeds, use a pot that has ample draining holes. This will help ensure that the seedlings will have enough access to a continuous flow of water and air. Also, make sure to put a mesh over the hole to prevent unwanted soil loss.
As there are different trees in the market, you will also have various seeds to choose from. Regardless of which type you purchase, make sure to sow three to five seeds into the pot. This is because one germinates would need such a number of seedlings to grow.
Starting bonsai trees from seeds is an extremely rewarding process. With proper care and patience, you can grow a beautiful miniaturized tree from just a tiny seed. However, bonsai seeds have very specific requirements at each stage to ensure successful germination and seedling growth. This complete guide will teach beginners everything they need to know about starting bonsai from seeds.
Choosing High Quality Bonsai Seeds
The first critical step is acquiring viable, fresh bonsai tree seeds to plant Here are some tips for selecting the best seeds
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Shop for seeds of tree species that make good bonsai candidates like maples, pines, junipers, oaks, elms, and flowering trees Avoid seeds from weak-wooded or short-lived trees.
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Purchase seeds from reputable bonsai nurseries or sellers to ensure they are fresh and have been properly stored. Old or mishandled seeds often fail to germinate.
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Collect freshly fallen seeds in autumn from healthy local trees to start species well-adapted to your climate. Conifer cones and nuts like acorns are easy picks.
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Carefully inspect seeds and discard any that are small, shriveled, moldy, or damaged. Select large, plump seeds for highest viability.
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Store seeds in paper envelopes or bags in a cool, dry spot until ready to plant. Proper dry storage prevents mold and premature sprouting.
Pre-Sowing Seed Stratification
Many bonsai seeds need a period of cold “stratification” before they will germinate. Here’s how to stratify seeds properly:
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Soak seeds in water for 24-48 hours before stratification. Soaking softens the seed coat and initiates the germination process.
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Place soaked seeds between damp paper towels and put in a partially sealed plastic bag. Refrigerate for 1-3 months at 35-45°F. Check periodically that seeds stay moist.
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Research to determine the ideal stratification duration and temperature for your specific tree species. Some seeds may not need cold treatment.
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For freshly collected seeds planted in fall, you can skip stratification since winter provides the needed cold period.
Choosing the Right Soil Medium
Proper soil drainage and aeration is crucial for bonsai seedlings. Avoid regular dense potting soil, which stays too wet. Recommended seed starting mixes include:
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A blend of coarse sand and fine bark or akadama particles. This combination provides drainage while still retaining some moisture.
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Equal parts sphagnum peat moss, perlite or vermiculite, and sand or pumice. The peat supplies water retention while the rest improve aeration.
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Specialty bonsai soil mixes made for seed starting. These ready-made mixes give ideal moisture and drainage.
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Straight akadama or very coarse sand. However, these may dry out too quickly and require frequent watering.
Sowing Bonsai Seeds Correctly
Once you have viable stratified seeds and suitable soil, you’re ready to sow. Follow these tips:
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Fill small 2-3 inch starter pots with pre-moistened soil, leaving 1⁄2 inch at the top. Shallow pots prevent planting seeds too deep.
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Gently tamp down the soil but avoid compacting it too much. Loose soil provides room for seeds to sprout.
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Spread seeds evenly over the soil surface. For large seeds like nuts, space 1-2 inches apart. Place tiny seeds closer together.
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Lightly dust a thin layer of soil or sand over the seeds to just barely cover them. Don’t bury small seeds too deep.
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Mist gently until soil is uniformly moist but not saturated. Proper watering is essential.
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Cover pots with plastic wrap or place in a seed starting tray with a clear humidity dome.
Caring for Bonsai Seeds and Seedlings
Consistent, attentive care is required after sowing bonsai seeds:
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Maintain proper temperature for germination, usually 65-75°F. Use a seedling heat mat if needed.
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Check soil daily and water lightly when surface dries out slightly. Don’t let pots dry completely.
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Remove covers once sprouts emerge to prevent mold. Mist leaves occasionally for humidity.
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Provide bright, indirect light immediately after germination, 12-16 hours daily. Avoid direct hot sunlight.
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Thin seedlings down to 1-2 per pot when first true leaves appear. Snip excess sprouts at soil level.
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Begin fertilizing 3-4 weeks after germination when root system develops. Use diluted liquid bonsai fertilizer.
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Monitor for fungal issues like damping off disease and treat quickly with organic fungicides.
Transplanting and Ongoing Care
As seedlings outgrow their starter pots, follow these guidelines:
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Wait to transplant until roots fully fill the pot, usually after 1-2 years. Repotting too early stresses delicate new roots.
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Very gently loosen root balls before repotting. Tease apart any thick mats of roots.
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Pot up into incrementally larger containers, only going up 1-2 inches at a time.
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Use well-draining bonsai soil mixes. Avoid moisture-retaining potting soils or composts.
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Prune back the top portion by 1/3 after repotting to balance root loss.
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Allow several weeks to recover before fertilizing again at reduced dosages.
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Protect vulnerable young seedlings from temperature extremes, wind, harsh sunlight, etc.
With meticulous sowing technique, vigilant early care, and proper ongoing maintenance you can grow magnificent bonsai trees from modest seeds. Though it takes dedication, the process is immensely rewarding. Follow this complete guide to start your bonsai journey!
Place soil in the pot
When placing soil in the container, make sure that it is at least two inches deep to provide adequate bedding for your seedlings. As mentioned, you should put a mesh over the holes of the pot to prevent soil loss. Once done, water it generously and let it dry outside.
Guide to Proper Planting and Growing of Bonsai Tree Seeds
For your trees to thrive, you must follow the basic guidelines on planting and growing. Although the process is somewhat similar to that of other plants, there are some specific guidelines and requirements needed for proper growth.
Scarification is the process of germinating seeds by placing it in the refrigerator for a few days or so. Not all seeds need scarification, so make sure to research yours first. Also, this process will vary depending on your type of seed.
Growing Bonsai From Seeds: How to Sow
FAQ
What is the best way to germinate bonsai seeds?
You can help the seed sprout easier by soaking them in warm water for 24-48 hours. Keeping water/seeds in an insulated mug while soaking will help this process. Once they are done soaking, don’t be surprised if they have a white membrane-like substance on the seed casing, this is normal!
How long does it take to grow a bonsai from seed?
To grow a bonsai from seed or sapling, be prepared to spend between five and 10 years stunting its growth before it’s ready for more stylistic shaping and training. This process is notoriously arduous, and we recommend newer growers start with established specimens.
Do you need to put bonsai seeds in the fridge?
Some bonsai growing kits recommend coking the seeds before planting or keeping them in the fridge, however, most of the time this isn’t necessary.Oct 10, 2023
Can you germinate bonsai seeds in a paper towel?
Germinating the Seeds
Take a paper towel and dampen it with water. Spread the seeds out on the damp paper towel, making sure they are not touching each other. Carefully fold the paper towel over the seeds so they are completely covered. Place the paper towel with the seeds inside a plastic bag, and seal it tightly.
Can a bonsai tree grow from a seed?
Growing from a seed is very time consuming and is particularly difficult when it comes time to wire and clip the branches. That said taking care of a bonsai is easier than you would first think and although it requires a commitment to prevent the tree from drying out; gentle care is all it takes.
How long does it take to grow bonsai seeds?
Germinating bonsai seeds requires patience and persistence. Some species may take weeks or even months to sprout. Don’t give up and continue to provide the ideal growing conditions. Soon enough, you’ll witness the tiny seedlings emerge from the soil. Nurturing Your Seedlings
How do you germinate bonsai seeds?
To germinate, seeds need water and oxygen. The right temperature is essential for their survival as well! It is also recommended that you use a fungicide when germinating Bonsai seeds. These steps will help to ensure that fungus growth does not hinder the germination process. When using peat pellets, place one seed in each pellet.