Indoors: Place the Carmona in a well-lit, preferably east- or south-facing window, less than 1 meter away

Outdoors: Can be moved outside temporarily in spring/summer if it does not drop below ±15 °C at night.

Temperature: Maintain an indoor temperature between 18–25 °C; not lower than approx. 15 °C

Humidity: Rule of thumb: use a humidity dish with pebbles or keep the air humid to compensate for dry air from heating

Frequency: Keep the soil slightly moist. Water as soon as the top 1 cm feels slightly dry. Daily in summer, sometimes even twice a day, and several times a week in winter.

Technique: Water generously until drainage, allowing excess water to drain away. Periodic soaking (5-30 seconds) can help saturate the root ball.

Water quality: Preferably use rainwater or filtered water; room temperature, preferably chlorine-free

Type: Choose an organic, slow-release bonsai fertilizer or a liquid, mildly dosed fertilizer

Frequency:
Growing season (spring–autumn): every 2 weeks
Winter: reduce to 1x per month

Composition: In the budding and flowering period a phosphorus-rich(er) type, later a potassium-rich(er) type

Pruning: Cut back young shoots to 2–3 leaves once they have 6–8 leaves. This creates dense branching. Avoid heavy pruning shortly before winter.

Wiring: Young branches are flexible: wire them carefully, with aluminum wire at a 45–50° angle, and use raffia/mesh for protection when bending.

Interval: Re-pot every 2 years in early spring to regulate root growth

Substrate: Mix akadama with humus/pumice for good drainage and moisture. Carefully prune the roots without removing too much.

Common pests: Spider mites, scale insects, whitefly. Check regularly and treat as needed with a mild insecticide or soap.

Diseases: Prolonged wetness can cause root rot or fungal infections. Hard water can cause leaf chlorosis – treat with iron supplement. Treat wounds with bonsai cut paste.