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STEP 4 - Prepare the tree
I am repotting an Ecambron pre-bonsai here that was collected one year ago and planted in nusery soil. It was basicly just a stump with no roots when it was potted. It is best to repot a tree when it is a little on the dry side, because wet soil can sometimes fall off in big chunks taking fragile small roots with it.
Start by lightly picking the soil out with a chopstick and then you can follow with a little help from the hose.
*Note: this tree was a pre-bonsai planted in nursery soil which is why I am removing all the soil and washing out with the water hose. If you are re-potting an established bonsai this is not usually necessary.
While you have your roots exposed it is always a good idea to cut down some of the large and/or non productive roots. You want to keep the small feeder roots and cut off the large woody ones. This will help the tree develop more small roots which are better for the trees health. Do not allow the roots to dry out while they are exposed, if you need, place the tree in a pan of water or spray from time to time with hose or mister.
STEP 5 - Secure the tree
Now, you can place the tree in the pot and figure out the final position. Place the tree on top of the mound of soil you built up earlier and gently wiggle the tree down to settle the roots and hold in place while you twist the wire around the rootball or trunk.
Gently press the tree down while twisting the tie wire with a pair of pliers or your wire cutters. You want the wire to be tight and secure because if the tree moves around in the pot the roots will have a harder time getting a foothold and of course you don't want the tree to fall out of the pot with the first gust of wind.
STEP 6 - Add the soil
Now the soil can be added. Use a scoop if you have one as it makes this a little easier. Keep in mind that air pockets left in your soil can damage or even kill your tree.
Add about half the soil you think it will take to fill the pot ( and again ideally you want the larger particles of soil in the bottom) and work in gently with your chopstick. Be very careful, you should not be poking the soil violently as this will just damage the roots, try to just move the chopstick back and fourth a little as you go into the soil.
Step 7 - Water in
When you have enough soil added and are satisfied that you have removed any air pockets, you need to water the tree in. *Note: Always water from the top the first time and run water thru until it flows clear out of the bottom of the pot This will force fresh oxygen into the soil while allowing the soil to soak up water and will expel small dust particles that may choke roots. Never soak a freshly potted bonsai until after this step has been done. Do not water again until you see new signs of growth, however if new growth does not appear within a week or so do not allow soil to completely dry out, also do not fertilize a freshly potted bonsai for at least a month.
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How to mix bonsai soil
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