After choosing one of the beginner bonsai trees, the next step is to choose a good bonsai soil mix. This is a subject that always generates discussions between bonsai experts. If you are looking for a bonsai soil mix that is ready to use, you can obtain them at garden centers or specialized bonsai stores.  These types of mixes are expensive, and that’s why a lot of people choose to make their own soil mix for bonsai trees.

Bonsai soil mixes vary in its composition, as there are a great number of components that can be employed for their elaboration. Since we are talking about beginner bonsai trees here, we know that it can be a daunting subject for a lot of people, but let’s learn some basic information to know what we are getting into.

As you know, a bonsai tree will have to exist in a small volume of soil that will have to serve its purpose all along the year.  The tree nurtures from this soil, so we can say that it totally depends on its quality, through the soil, the bonsai tree will get water, minerals, gases and nutrients that will help it become a healthy good looking tree. If you neglect to find a great bonsai soil mix, you’ll end up with a tree that has no vigor and looks unhealthy.

What You Should Look For on a Soil Mix

Adequate drainage. Water retention is bad for soil, because as water build up, it won’t be able to aerate properly and will build up salts.  A quality soil, must get rid of all excess water immediately.

Adequate water retention.  Water retention is the other side of the coin when it comes to a bonsai soil mix. It must hold water so that the try gets hydrated and moisturized.  As ou can see there has to be a balance between these two soil features.

Adequate aeration. Aeration will depend on the air pockets found in the soil.  These pockets of air will hold oxygen which is also extremely important for the life of your tree. Fresh air must continually enter the soil and provide a solution for its needs.

Bonsai soil mix for beginner bonsai trees can be also purchased online if you can’t find it near your area.  On Amazon you can find Hoffman Soil Mix, which has a presentation containing 2 quarts and serves for all kinds of bonsai tree, and Bonsai Boy’s Conifer Soil Mix, which contains a quarter and comes with a ziplock for easy management.