All plants require air, sunlight and water for healthy growth. The availability of these ingredients is, therefore, crucial for the health of bonsai too. Air is needed by the roots and leaves to breathe. lf the supply of air to the roots and leaves is restricted in any way, the plant will not grow well. Hence the importance of a well-aerated soil and free-flowing air for good, healthy growth. Water is another key ingredient. Given that more than 50 per cent of a plant’s physical structure is made up of water, the availability of water is the prime factor for a plant’s survival. Similarly, providing the right amount of water for your bonsai is key to keeping your bonsai alive. Finally, we must not forget the importance of light.Light is the source of food for plants, as it is the agent for photosynthesis.