Choose a bright spot, but keep it out of direct midday sun. A patio or spot with gentle morning sun works well, especially somewhere you pass by often.

Yes, as long as the spot is bright. Avoid placing it right in a window, though. Direct sun through glass gets harsh and hot, and indoor air tends to be very dry, so keep a close eye on moisture.

It does. Grouping your bonsai with other plants creates a better microclimate for it.

Water to saturation, until it runs out the bottom of the pot, then let the soil dry down a little before watering again. As a rough guide: about once a week, or every 2 to 3 days if your climate is hotter.

Push a chopstick into the soil, down toward the bottom of the pot, then pull it out. If it looks glossy and wet, the soil is still saturated. Once it looks just moist rather than wet, it is time to water again.

A few yellow leaves can happen after repotting, since the tree has been through a change. This usually clears up quickly. If you are unsure, send a photo to africa@hitachi-bonsai-challenge.com and we will take a look.

Late September (roughly mid to late September) is the ideal window.

Your tree, the soil provided, the two mesh pieces, a chopstick, the container, and a pair of scissors. An older pair of scissors works best, since cutting through soil blunts the blade.

Keep it in a semi-shaded, warm spot, out of strong wind and harsh sun. New roots should start developing quickly at this time of year. Keep an eye on the leaves, and send a photo to africa@hitachi-bonsai-challenge.com if anything looks off.

Reach out to africa@hitachi-bonsai-challenge.com at any time, whether it is a care question, a photo submission, or anything else on your mind. The team, including Dr Carl Morrow, is there to help.