In its homeland, warm Australia, the eucalyptus grows up to 100 meters high. In this country it reaches a height of up to 30 meters. With the right cut, however, you can give the deciduous tree a very unusual look. If you follow the tips on this page, your guests will soon marvel at a handsome bonsai tree.
A eucalyptus can be grown well as a bonsai
Appropriate variety
The eucalyptus not only grows tall but also very quickly. A pruning usually also promotes growth. Bonsai keeping is therefore associated with a lot of effort. Unless you choose the Eucalyptus gunii variety. This eucalyptus species only grows 40 cm per year and thus allows a low stature to be maintained.
Possible styles
- double stem
- upright shape
- inclined shape
maintenance
location
To keep the bluish shimmering leaves of the eucalyptus from fading, it is best to place it in a light location. In summer there is a sunny spot on the terrace. Make sure you have enough light even in winter. When it comes to temperature, your bonsai makes few demands.
pour
The eucalyptus actually only needs a little water. In bonsai form, however, you should water it regularly. The only thing to avoid is waterlogging.
Fertilize
The amount of fertilizer depends on the room temperature. In cool locations, fertilizing twice a week with a liquid fertilizer is sufficient. In the growth phase you can increase the dose to once a week.
To cut
The most important maintenance aspect of a eucalyptus bonsai is the pruning. Only with regularity does the eucalyptus gunii retain its growth habit.
- You have to gradually work out the bonsai form.
- Cut the protruding side shoots.
- Shorten tall growths to 50 cm.
- Cut back the new shoots to two leaf bases.
wire
Wiring is also part of the bonsai design for other tree species. However, the eucalyptus has a very sensitive bark, which is why this technique is not recommended.
repot
Every two to three years the eucalyptus bonsai must be repotted into a larger container.
hibernate
Unlike the conventional eucalyptus, the gunii variety is winter-resistant down to -20°C. Sufficient light is important.