Yew

Fertilizing

Feed your yew bonsai monthly during the growing season with a general-purpose organic fertilizer. This slow and steady approach provides sufficient nutrients while preventing root burn or excessive growth. For optimal results, apply fertilizer at half the recommended strength on the packaging label, as yews are slow-growing trees that don't require heavy feeding. During dormant seasons, particularly in winter, cease fertilization entirely since the tree isn't actively growing and fertilizers could damage delicate roots.

The key is maintaining consistent but moderate fertilization to support healthy growth without overwhelming the tree. Over-fertilizing can be as harmful as under-fertilizing, so err on the side of caution and watch how your tree responds to the feeding schedule.

Placement

Yew bonsai are quite versatile when it comes to placement, thriving in both full sun and partial shade locations. For indoor placement, position your tree near a window that receives plenty of bright, indirect sunlight throughout the day. If keeping outdoors, protect it from intense afternoon sun, especially during summer months when high temperatures can quickly dry out the soil and damage foliage. Morning and evening sun exposure is ideal.

While yews are generally hardy, they require protection from extreme conditions. During winter, bring potted specimens indoors or provide protection if temperatures drop significantly, as bonsai pots don't provide the same insulation as ground soil. When indoors, keep away from drafty windows during winter and avoid placing near heating vents or air conditioning units that can create sudden temperature fluctuations.

Pruning

To develop a dense, well-structured yew bonsai, pruning should be carried out strategically throughout the year. In early July, remove last year's needles to promote back budding, which will occur the following spring. About two weeks after this initial pruning, cut back the current year's growth, leaving 6-8 needles on each shoot. This two-step process helps develop finer branching and denser foliage pads.

Never remove more than one-third of the tree's foliage at once, as this can seriously weaken the tree. While yews are tolerant of heavy pruning, they are slow-growing trees that need time to recover between major pruning sessions. For larger structural cuts, use concave cutters and apply cut paste to help wounds heal. Dead branches can be removed at any time without concern. Maintenance pruning can be performed in spring or fall, but avoid pruning during extremely hot or cold periods.

Repotting

Repot your yew bonsai every 3-4 years, preferably in spring when the buds begin to swell. Some experts also successfully repot during midsummer, though spring remains the safest option. Use a well-draining soil mix consisting of equal parts akadama, pumice, and lava rock. You can adjust this ratio based on your local climate - add more water-retaining components in hot, dry areas or increase drainage in humid conditions.

When repotting, carefully inspect the root system and trim away any rotted or severely circling roots. Don't remove more than one-third of the root mass during repotting. The new pot should be just large enough to accommodate the reduced root system with some room for growth. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes and use proper bonsai soil for optimal results.

Watering

Yew bonsai prefer slightly dry conditions and should only be watered when the soil begins to dry out. Before watering, check the soil moisture by inserting your finger about half an inch deep - if it feels dry at that depth, it's time to water thoroughly. Avoid keeping the soil constantly wet, as this can lead to root rot and other problems. Instead, allow the top layer to dry somewhat between waterings.

Water deeply when you do water, ensuring the entire root mass receives moisture. However, don't let the pot sit in standing water, as yews are susceptible to root rot in waterlogged conditions. During hot weather, you may need to water more frequently, while in winter, reduce watering frequency significantly. Always use well-draining soil and a pot with adequate drainage holes to prevent water accumulation.

References

Back Garden Bonsai - Yew Bonsai Care Bonsai Tree Help - How do I care for a Yew Bonsai? A-Z Animals - Yew Bonsai Care Guide