Hi Rina,

I don't know anything about bonsai, but I do grow a lot of conifers in containers. For the most part, just follow the same practices you would for any containerized plant and you should do okay. Conifers don't like the soil to stay too wet for too long, and it's best to let the soil dry out somewhat between waterings. They prefer acidic soils, so be careful not to overdo it with the lime. I have decided not add any lime to the 5:1:1 mix for my conifers. I am using the Dyna-Gro FP fertilizer and that will provide the Ca and Mg - if you omit lime, be sure to use something similar.

You should also think about what you want in the plant's form. If they were mine, I'd stake the main trunk on #1 and #2 to straighten it. Also, it looks like #3 has a double leader - now would be a good time to remove one of the leaders. After you do so, it may look a little sparse at first but it will fill in over time and be better off in the long run.

Let us know how they fare.

Alex

Alex

thank you for your suggestions. 2 yews are potted in very "barky" soil so I probably leave them until next spring. I don't mind experimenting, have enough of them (lol-never enough plants for me).
So far I wasn't able to find DynaGro around here, so will follow Al's suggestions about fertilizing.

We are having sunny & warmer day today, cooling off some tomorrow. Nice day to work in the garden.
Rina