Frequently Asked Questions
We want buying and caring for your bonsai to be as simple and enjoyable as possible. Below you'll find answers to some of the questions we're most commonly asked. If you can't find what you're looking for, please contact us at info@somersetbonsai.com.
Bonsai FAQs
Are bonsai difficult to look after?
Not necessarily! Some bonsai are particularly well suited to beginners, and with the right position, watering and basic care, looking after a bonsai can be very rewarding.
We provide straightforward care information to help you understand what your tree needs. If you're new to bonsai, look out for the trees we recommend for beginners.
Are the bonsai suitable for beginners?
Many of them are. We offer a selection of bonsai that are particularly suitable for people buying their first tree, including varieties such as the Chinese Elm.
Individual product descriptions will provide more information about the tree and its care requirements.
Will I receive the exact bonsai shown in the photograph?
This depends on the product. Bonsai in our Individually Photographed collection are individually listed, so the tree pictured is the tree you will receive. As bonsai are living plants, however, their appearance can naturally change between the photograph being taken and delivery.
For bonsai from our standard ranges, photographs may be representative. Your tree will therefore have its own individual shape, size and character.
Why does my bonsai look slightly different from the photograph?
Bonsai are living trees, so no two are completely identical. Their appearance also changes naturally throughout the year.
New growth, pruning, leaf colour, leaf loss and seasonal changes can all affect how a tree looks. These natural variations are part of what makes every bonsai unique.
What should I do with my bonsai when I go on holiday?
Bonsai have relatively small pots and should not be left without care for long periods, particularly during warm weather when the soil can dry out quickly.
If you're going away, we recommend asking a friend, family member or neighbour to check your bonsai regularly and water it when the soil begins to feel slightly dry. Make sure they understand that bonsai should be checked rather than simply watered every day, as overwatering can also cause problems.
Before you leave, place your bonsai somewhere appropriate for its variety and avoid making any major changes to its normal growing conditions just before your holiday.
During hot summer weather, some bonsai may require daily watering, so it's particularly important to arrange reliable care while you're away.
What pots do your standard bonsai come in?
Our generic range bonsai are supplied in our Standard Range pots. These are budget-friendly, handmade and hand-glazed pots that help us offer beautiful bonsai at an affordable price.
Because they are handmade, minor variations can occur, including small glaze marks, uneven glazing, slight colour differences or a minor wobble. Every pot is checked before dispatch to ensure it is structurally sound and suitable for use.
Delivery FAQs
How much is delivery?
We offer FREE UK delivery on all orders of £50 or more. For orders under £50:
- Dry goods under 2kg — £1.99
- All bonsai orders and dry goods over 2kg — £3.99
The applicable delivery charge will be shown at checkout.
How quickly will my order arrive?
We use Royal Mail First Class and aim for orders to be delivered within two working days.
Delivery times are estimates and occasionally delays can occur outside our control. As bonsai are living plants, we may also delay dispatch during unsuitable weather conditions if we believe this is necessary to protect the tree.
Where do you deliver?
We currently deliver throughout the United Kingdom, including Northern Ireland. At present, we do not offer international delivery.
How long does delivery take?
We use Royal Mail First Class for our deliveries and aim for all orders to be delivered within two working days.
Please remember that this is an estimated delivery time rather than a guarantee, and occasional delays can occur outside our control. As bonsai are living plants, we may also delay dispatch during unsuitable weather if we believe sending the tree could put its health at risk.
How will my bonsai be packaged?
We understand that shipping a living tree requires extra care. Each bonsai is carefully packaged and secured to help protect the tree, pot and soil during its journey.
When your bonsai arrives
What should I do when my bonsai arrives?
Carefully remove your bonsai from its packaging and check the tree and pot.
Place it in a suitable position according to its care requirements and check the soil before watering. Avoid automatically watering your bonsai when it arrives — check whether the soil actually needs water first.
It's also normal for some bonsai to take a little time to adjust to their new surroundings.
My bonsai has dropped some leaves. Should I be worried?
Not always. Some bonsai can temporarily lose leaves following a change in environment, light, temperature or season.
Continue to provide the correct care and be particularly careful not to overwater the tree in response to leaf loss. If you're concerned about your bonsai, you're welcome to contact us for advice.
What happens if my bonsai arrives damaged?
Please check your order as soon as possible after delivery. If your bonsai, pot or another item arrives damaged, faulty or significantly not as described, please contact us as soon as possible at info@somersetbonsai.com.
Please include photographs of the item and its packaging so that we can assess what has happened and help resolve the issue.
Can I return my order?
Yes, subject to our Refund & Returns Policy and your statutory consumer rights.
Because bonsai are living plants, we ask that they are properly cared for while in your possession. Please see our full Refund &
Returns Policy for information about eligibility, return postage and how to request a return.
General FAQs
Can I send a bonsai as a gift?
Absolutely. Bonsai can make a thoughtful gift for birthdays, anniversaries, housewarmings and other special occasions. We also offer gift
options on selected products.
Are bonsai pet friendly?
This depends on the variety of bonsai, as some species may be harmful to pets if eaten.
To make choosing the right bonsai easier, every bonsai on our website will be clearly labelled to show whether it is pet friendly. Simply check the product page before purchasing to see whether the particular variety is suitable for a home with pets.
If you're ever unsure, please contact us at info@somersetbonsai.com and we'll be happy to help.
Still need some help?
We're a small, family-run business and are always happy to help where we can. Please drop us an email at info@somersetbonsai.com and we'll do our best to help.
Beautiful bonsai, made simple. 🌿