In principle, you can grow a more or less attractive bonsai from almost any tree. However, this is much easier to do with small-leaved trees than with a bluebell tree. After all, it is one of the trees with the largest leaves in the world.
Small-leaved trees are better suited for growing bonsai
In addition, a bluebell tree grows very quickly. The growth per year can be more than one meter, with a young Paulownia even more than two meters. So you have to reach for your cutting tool quite often.
How do I train my Paulownia to be a bonsai?
To successfully raise a paulownia, which is the botanical name of the bluebell tree, for bonsai, it is best to buy small seedlings. Alternatively, you can also get seeds, they germinate quite quickly.
By pruning immediately after purchase, you encourage the young plant to branch out early. A shallow planting bowl prevents deep root growth. A careful supply of nutrients is all the more important. The location should be bright and warm.
How do I care for my bluebell bonsai?
Even as a bonsai, your bluebell tree needs sufficient water and nutrients. Trying to keep it artificially small through an extreme shortage is not a good solution. Since a bonsai is usually grown in a rather small pot, your bluebell tree needs regular fertilizer in this case, but only in small quantities.
Not only the upper parts of the plant have to be trimmed regularly with a bonsai, but also the roots. Only use clean and well-sharpened tools for this. Then place your blue bell tree in fresh soil and water it well. Over time, the foliage should grow smaller and smaller, making your bluebell tree a pretty and harmonious bonsai.
The essentials in brief:
- grow from seeds or use seedlings
- Trim roots and shoots
- plant in a suitable bonsai container
- water, fertilize and prune regularly
- Location: warm and bright
tips
Beginners should not necessarily dare to want to grow a bluebell tree as a bonsai. Since it grows quite quickly at the beginning, frequent pruning is necessary.