A potting mix for his deciduous trees consisting of two thirds akadama and one third lava, without the use pumice in the mix.  Bonsai trees should be fertilized every 14 to 18 days with Miracle Grow fertilizer, which dissolved in water using the dilution listed on the box.  You may also use just a bit more fertilizer than the recommended strength, although this should be approached very carefully.

Trees are fed from early February to late October.  In some cases, the heavy feeding allows the trees to be defoliated more than one time each year, leading to the rapid formation of a highly ramified tree.  The deciduous trees need to be watered every day and in the hot areas of the Bay Area more than once a day.