Bonsai Maintenance Secrets, how to determine if the bonsai soil is completely dry?

Observing the soil surface to determine the moisture level is a crucial step in the care of盆景 (bonsai). How to tell if the soil in a bonsai is completely dry? Here are some practical methods.Observe the soil surfaceThe most direct method is to observe the soil surface. When the surface of the soil shows cracks or feels dry when touched lightly, it can be determined that the soil is completely dry, and it is time to water the bonsai.Judging by touchGently pick up a handful of soil with your hand. If the soil is firm and does not fall apart easily, it indicates the moisture is moderate; if the soil is loose and falls apart easily, it means the soil is completely dry. This method is intuitive, but it should be noted that different types of bonsai plants have different requirements for soil moisture, so it is necessary to judge according to the characteristics of the specific plant.Inserting a bamboo skewer or chopstickInsert a clean bamboo skewer or chopstick into the soil to a depth of about 3-5 centimeters, wait for a while, then remove it and observe its surface. If the surface is covered with soil, it indicates the moisture is moderate; if there is no soil on the surface, it means the soil is completely dry.Using a soil moisture meterA soil moisture meter is a relatively accurate measuring tool that can accurately measure soil moisture. When using it, insert the moisture meter into the soil and read the displayed value. The moisture of the bonsai soil should be maintained between 40%-60%.Observing the plant's conditionThe growth condition of the bonsai plant can also reflect the moisture level of the soil. If the leaves of the plant turn yellow and wither, it means the soil is completely dry and needs to be watered promptly; if the leaves are green and the plant is growing vigorously, it indicates the moisture is moderate.Watering methodsWatering is an important means to maintain the moisture of the bonsai soil. When watering, the following principles should be followed:1. Water in the morning: Morning is a good time to water, as the temperature is lower and water evaporates slowly, which is conducive to plant absorption.2. Thorough watering: Water thoroughly to allow water to penetrate the soil fully.3. Control water volume: Control the amount of water according to the dryness of the soil and the needs of the plant.4. Watering time: Avoid watering during the high-temperature period of noon to prevent rapid evaporation of water.Determining if the bonsai soil is completely dry requires a combination of methods and comprehensive judgment. Only by mastering the correct methods can one provide an appropriate growing environment for the bonsai plant, making it more beautiful and appealing.References:"Chinese Bonsai Art," China Forestry Publishing House, 2018."Bonsai Maintenance Techniques," Shanghai Science and Technology Publishing House, 2019.