August is the time to enjoy your bonsai. Admire what you have achieved. But, think about future ramifications. Selectively pinch, nip, and fine wire all your trees. Water your trees, check for pests, and continue to work on the refinement of your trees.

Continue to fertilize, until late August, with your regular fertilizer. Then continue to fertilize but use a fertilizer with no nitrogen such as 0-10-10. Nitrogen (the 0 in the previous formula) promotes growth. You do not want new growth at this time of the year because such growth will not have time to harden off before winter.

If the soil in your bonsai container is hard and compacted use a nail to aerate the soil. The aeration will improve the health of the roots and will aid in watering.

In August watering can be a problem. In extreme heat trees will become somewhat dormant. There is little new growth and water requirements are minimal. Feel the soil. If the soil is damp don’t water. There are some exceptions - such as willows and cypress. It is best to over-water such plants. With junipers and most needled evergreens wait until they feel dry and then water thoroughly. Observe your trees and learn their individual watering requirements.

Does it bother you that what doctors do they call their practice?