Acer deshojo 2-4

Maple trees need a substrate that is always moist. Water it regularly while allowing the root ball to dry out slightly between waterings to avoid excess water. In spring/summer, watering will be done regularly, when it's hot, it's every day ! On the other hand, in winter, water according to the supervision of the soil. Thanks to the rain and cold, you won't necessarily need to water regularly since the substrate will remain moist. 

Important : Don't hesitate to water the entire root ball up to the roots, the water will drain away through the holes under the pot or bathe the bonsai in water (drenching) for a few minutes, to make sure you water it well. We do not recommend putting a cup/container under the pot as the water will stagnate and can cause root rot. (Too much water = asphyxiation).

This maple needs fresh soil with a good share of organic matter. Repotting will be done in spring (early March) when the first leaves come out, about every 2/3 years. So avoid repotting in winter or autumn. Use a substrate that can both drain your soil to remove excess water and retain it in case of drought. In the nursery, we use potting soil which is composed of black peat, blond peat, eco-aged, topsoil, horse manure, pozzolana. 

Regular pruning in winter will allow the bonsai to improve its structure. Eliminate branches that cross each other, point upwards or downwards. Keep two tees at each intersection. During the growing season, prune the shoots as soon as they have developed 5 to 7 pairs of leaves

click ---> How do you prune a Japanese maple? - Galinou Bonsai Nursery

In the nursery, we use blue tomato/flower fertilizer NPK 12 12 17. You can use some and put a handful (small or large depending on the size of the pot) on the substrate from May to October, every 2 months alternating chemical/organic.