My bonsai tree, a Mimosa Acacia, doesn't have a real trunk like it shows in the picture, is it supposed to?

Question

We have been growing this bonsai tree for 5 months and all it has is small leaves. not even real branches. just branches that look like stems. what the leaves are growing on is just one thin stem.

Right now it's winter, and we don't know whether to put it away in a warm place, but there won't be any sunlight .. or just keep it near the window with the window closed.

is something wrong with our 'tree'?

Answer 1

How To Take Proper Care of Your Bonsai Tree

During the Winter months - Once nightly lows begin approaching the 40 degree mark, it is time to bring your indoor bonsai inside. do not suddenly change the location of your tree, the move should be done gradually over a period of several weeks. Bring it in for a few hours the first time, slowly increasing the time it spends indoors until it becomes acclimated to its new environment. The ideal indoor location is on a window sill facing south. An east or west exposure is second best. A northern exposure will work, but will necessitate the use of "grow lights" to provide sufficient light to keep your bonsai healthy. Four to six hours of sunlight per day should be enough to keep your bonsai tree healthy and happy. If you can provide more, that is even better.

Watering Your Bonsai Tree - Watering of your bonsai must never be neglected. Apply water when the soil appears dry -- never allow the soil to become completely dry. If your bonsai is receiving full sun, it may be necessary to water at the least, once a day. This schedule may vary with the size pot, type of soil and type of bonsai tree you own. Evaluate each tree's water requirements and adjust your watering schedule to accommodate it. It is a good idea to use a moisture meter until you get to know the requirements of your bonsai tree. Watering should be done with a watering can or hose attachment which should dispense the water in a soft enough manner as not to disturb the soil. Water should be applied until it begins running out of the holes in the bottom of your pot. A good rain is usually a sufficient watering.

Answer 2

It is an outdoor tree, and must be kept outside all the time. Of course, it depends on where you live as to what protection you must give it. You're welcome to email me at:
[e-mail] with more specific information. I'll be glad to send you care instructions for mimosa. Meanwhile, you may want to read the Bonsai Care page on my site:
http://www.american-bonsai.com .

Answer 3

the leaves are bipinnately compound, so it sounds normal