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Coastal Redwood Bonsai Care

The Coast Redwood or Sequoia Sempervirens is a very popular species for bonsai trees. The long foliage and needles can be trained easily downward with lighter gauge wire making it ideal for beginners. Redwoods are strong, powerful, and sprout consistently on the trunk. These species of tree work well for making a forest style bonsai. Below please see our Coastal Redwood Bonsai Care information.

The success of your bonsai depends on a variety of factors, most notably watering and light. Below are some species specific guidelines to follow that will help ensure that your bonsai will stay healthy and happy.

Pruning Tips:
The Coast Redwood bonsai can be pruned by cutting the leaves back as they grow. We recommend making the cuts once the leaves have started to grow wood inside. New growth will have a brighter green appearance. Wait until darker growth appears before cutting. New foliage will sprout at the cut. Redwoods backbud very easily.

Fertilizing:
We recommend fertilizing your tree every month with a bonsai fertilizer. Time release granules are the easiest to use and can be added every season. Reduce the amount of fertilizer during the winter. Take care to not over-fertilize as this can cause your leaves to burn.

Lighting:
Redwood Bonsai trees thrive best with natural filtered sunlight. Foliage will grow quickly during the growing seasons, spring and fall. Excessive heat and sun will burn the edges of the needles. Move to filtered sunlight if this occurs.

Temperature Requirements:
Redwood bonsai thrive in both warm and cold conditions. They are very hardy to many climates and conditions. Protect from intense sun and heat during the summer.

Watering Requirements:
Redwood Bonsai require moderate watering. We recommend using a soft spray to soak the soil. Ensure that water penetrates not only the topsoil but also into the roots by checking that draining is occurring on the bottom of the pot. Redwood enjoy more humid and moist conditions.

Repotting:
Redwoods can be repotted during spring and fall for highest success rates. Avoid winter repotting as colder temperatures will make it harder for roots to recover. During repotting, we recommend trimming off older roots to promote new growth. Repot your Redwood as the tree outgrows the pot. Heavy root pruning is acceptable.