The Chinese elm is considered to be the most popular type of elm for keeping as a bonsai. It is possible that this quality was inherited from her origins in Southeast Asia. The deciduous tree inspires with its fine twigs and numerous small leaves, which make a particularly attractive picture in the bucket. Convince yourself of the beauty of a Chinese elm as a bonsai and try it out. The following guide gives you valuable tips on care.
The Chinese elm is a beautiful bonsai
location
Place your Chinese elm in a sunny spot if possible. If necessary, your tree will also develop well in partial shade. In addition, Chinese elms even tolerate light frost. The winter hardiness depends on the exact origin of the plant. Check with your nursery. If you buy an indoor bonsai there, you should overwinter it indoors to be on the safe side. Temperatures of 0-10°C are ideal. Depending on the temperature, your Chinese elm may shed its leaves. Don't worry, the foliage will grow again next spring.
pour
When it comes to watering, the key is to choose regularity over extremes. The substrate should be permanently moist. You should counteract waterlogging and long dry periods.
Fertilize
Encourage the growth of your Chinese elm with a conventional liquid mineral fertilizer mixed with organic fertilizer. Only in winter is the additional nutrient supply not recommended.
pruning
A Chinese elm tolerates heavy pruning very well. With wires, you can additionally get the shape.
- with regular pruning, many branches are formed
- the Chinese elm quickly sprout again
- when three to four nodes have formed, prune the tree back to one or two leaves
- late autumn is recommended for radical interventions
repot
Repotting is best done in spring. Changing the pot regularly is particularly important for young specimens. Later you can increase the distances. Root pruning will prevent excessive suckering from your Chinese elm.
crop protection
Simple pesticides or spraying the leaves with water help against pests. Note that increased humidity promotes the infestation of gall mites and scale insects.
Note: Do you want to propagate your Chinese elm? It is best to use cuttings for this. Experience has shown that these provide greater chances of success than cultivation from seeds. Summer is the best time to take and plant the cuttings.