How much sunlight is required for my bonsai tree?

Sunlight, especially the ultra-violet spectrum, affects the growth of trees. Therefore, except in special cases such as immediately after repotting and extensive trimming bonsai should be placed in a sunny location. Bright light will also work well but the tree should not be placed more than 12" away from the direct light source.

Placement

An east, west or southern exposure works best. A northern exposure will require the use of grow lights which should remain on up to 16 hours each day and the lamp should not be more than 2 inches from the top of the tree. Incandescent light is too hot and will not provide the various spectrum of light that is required to maintain your bonsai tree.

How much light?

Bonsai need about 5 hours of direct or indirect sunlight per day. Certain species of bonsai do best in the winter if they receive most of their light from indirect sources. Bonsai trees can burn if taken from a shady location to a sunny location so care should be taken to gradually increase their light exposure.

If you do not have a window or light source that provides an east, west or southern exposure, be sure to select a bonsai tree that does well in lower lighting conditions.

Growing Indoors with Supplementary Light

Tropical bonsai tree varieties like ficus can be grown indoors in sunny rooms with an east, west, or southern exposure, but grow lights can often be helpful with many people keeping their bonsai in their basements or during winter months. Below are some grow light options.

For a full list head over to the recommended bonsai grow lights page.

Below are some examples of bonsai trees grown indoors under supplmentary grow lights.