Dawn Redwood Bonsai Forest

I am going to plant my seedlings into a bigger planter so that I can keep all of them. Can you tell me the type of moss seeds that this came with so that I can buy more to help fill the gaps in the larger planter? Thank you!

Verified reply from Dayle-Marie

The moss type that come in the kit is Irish/Scotch moss (Sagina Subulata).

I potted the seeds and now I have roughly half a bag of soil left. How is this remaining soil needing to be kept/stored?

Verified reply from Amy

Soil should be kept in a cool, dry place and should be sealed as well as possible.

Is it possible to start the seeds in an aerogrow garden? The constant moisture and programmable light seem ideal, but I'm wondering if that's too much moisture. I feel like it would be easier to control/monitor in an aerogarden.

Verified reply from Amy

Hello! We suggest you check out the tips here, and if that doesn't inform you better, you can contact the maker for more information. https://www.pottingshedcreations.com/blog/dawn-redwood-tips/

Would this tree do well in the St. George, Utah area?

Verified reply from Norma

As long as it is kept in the proper conditions, yes it will.

My seeds didnt grow. Is there a way to buy new ones. Our weather in California is colder this season then we are used to. i think i may have planted to soon for our current weather.

Verified reply from Leslie

Oh no! Send an email to help@uncommongoods.com, or give us a call at 888-365-0056 or +1718-210-1200 and we'd be happy to help.

Does climate matter? How would they do in Arkansas?

Verified reply from Melody

These tiny trees do best when the soil temperature is between 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit, and the soil should remain at the consistency of a damp sponge. They love the sun so they need 3-4 hours of good sunlight or supplemental light as it grows.

What time is best to prune the redwood tree forest? When it is in the dormant state or just when you see it start growing again?

Verified reply from Valerie

Pruning should be done when you see new shoots. Using wire to shape the bonsai is possible when the tree is dormant,

What is the river rock for? Decor?

Verified reply from Valerie

Yes, the river rock is decorative.

Been growing for a few months. Lots of small, white-ish bugs crawling around. Is that bad? Do I need to remove them?

Verified reply from Marisa

Bugs don't always eat the plants they are with, but they sometimes do. Without seeing them, it is hard to identify, but it sounds like aphids or mites. Here is a link to a great resource on identifying and controlling common house insects. http://www.extension.umn.edu/garden/insects/find/houseplant-insect-control/ If you would rather return or exchange your Bonsai Forest, we'll be happy to help. You can reach us at 888-365-0056 or help@uncommongoods.com, or by clicking the "live chat" link at the bottom of every page on our site, listed under "Support."

The only window we currently have to set this in is sometimes cracked open in the winter time. Are these trees tolerant of varying temperatures or cold drafts?

Verified reply from Marisa

That's actually perfect--once sprouts have become trees. In the winter months they are dormant, and your forest will need to be stored in a cool location to allow it to remain healthy. Select a cool windowsill, sheltered garage or basement to overwinter your trees in. Water your forest when soil begins to dry out. Cooler temperatures often require less watering. Water the soil deep enough to reach all roots and until water is draining into the drainage tray. HOWEVER, these are NOT good conditions for planting. Temperature is important for seed germination. Soil typically is 5ºF/-15ºC cooler than the surrounding air. Optimum soil temperature for seed germination is around 70ºF/21ºC. If your room temperature is cooler than 75ºF/24ºC, you will need to supplement heat with a simple desk lamp about 8" from the top of the pot. If your room temperature is warm enough, place pots and seedlings in a location with morning sunlight.