If humans do not intervene in the growth of an elm, the deciduous trees grow into mighty plants whose crowns provide shade for many smaller plants. In this form, the elm is a popular photo motif. However, the plants are just as attractive with small growth in the Japanese bonsai form. Whether the Chinese elm or the golden elm, every variety of deciduous tree is also suitable for graceful planting in tubs. Try it.
The bonsai elm has beautifully branched branches
What speaks for a bonsai elm?
The habit of an elm fulfills many requirements that make the tree a perfect bonsai plant. The elm convinces with
- a dense branch
- faster foliage formation
- many small leaves
- undemanding care
Care instructions for a bonsai elm
location claims
It is best to place your bonsai elm in a sunny location. A south-facing windowsill is ideal. However, it is even more advisable to keep the deciduous tree outside during the summer months.
hibernate
In winter, however, you should bring your elm indoors, as it is sensitive to frost. In terms of temperature, the elm is very frugal. It tolerates cool storage at 8°C as well as room temperature of 22°C. As a rule of thumb, the warmer the environment, the higher the light supply should be. In heated rooms, your bonsai elm will even keep its foliage.
pruning and shape retention
By regularly thinning out the crown, you will maintain the bonsai shape of your elm. Young plants in particular must be trimmed at regular intervals so that they form tight branches. Only later is it sufficient to simply remove bothersome branches. Allow the branches to grow to 6-8 leaves, then prune back to 2-3 leaves.
Even in bonsai form, elms hardly need to be wired. If you still want to use the technique as a support, this is possible all year round as long as the branches are not completely lignified.
pour
Always let the substrate dry before you water your bonsai elm extensively.
Fertilize
In the growth phase, support your bonsai elm with a 14-day fertilization with a bonsai fertilizer. In winter, limit the addition to once a month.
repot
Repot young bonsai elms every two to three years. When removing the deciduous tree from the pot, it is advisable to immediately cut the roots.