I have some ceramic molds that would make beautiful rectangle Bonsia pots but I don't know if I should put holes in the bottom like regular flower pots. Any suggestions? Thanks
Do Bonsai pots need to have holes in the bottom?
Yes you should.
While experienced growers can have plantings for many years in pots w/o holes, it requires special care. I have a 5 year old tray planting that has no holes and has not yet been repotted, but I've used only distilled water or water from the dehumidifier when watering and fish fertilizers. I would not have been able to sustain the planting had I used tap water or chemical fertilizers because of the steady increase in the level of soluble salts in the soil solution that would have accompanied that type of water/fertilizer regimen.
Holes (and hopefully your choice of soil), allow you to water copiously, which flushes accumulating salts from the soil each time you water.
Al
Yes.
As Al has stated, salts built up is a concern and "wet feet" is another consideration. There are some trees that will survive constantly wet soil (Bald Cypress come to mind) but most will die from root rot. Good drainage is essential.
Watering is one of the most important aspects of bonsai.
Thanks so much. I was just about to put them in the kiln to be fired. I will put holes in them first!! thanks again