Among the bonsai trees, the marshmallow stands out with its bloom. If the conditions are right, the species will flower throughout the season. Not only Hibiscus syriacus provides good bonsai material. The Chinese rose mallow can also be used for this art.
A blooming hibiscus bonsai is a beautiful sight
Design
With a little patience and the right techniques, a hibiscus can be formed into a bonsai. The large individual flowers are particularly attractive between the densely leafed shoots.
wire
The marshmallow tolerates shaping with bonsai wire well. While older branches break easily because of their strong lignification, the elastic young twigs quickly snap back into their original shape. In this case it is necessary to additionally fix the shoots with guy wires.
cut
In order to minimize the size of the leaves, the shrub is regularly pruned. Choosing small-leaved varieties saves you time and effort with pruning. Start pruning early so that the tree branches out well. During the growth phase, continuously cut back new shoots to one or two leaves. In order to enjoy the splendor of the flowers, it is no longer allowed to use scissors from June onwards.
Repotting and root pruning
Put the hibiscus in new soil every year so that it is supplied with sufficient nutrients before each growing season. If the temperatures are mild and the tree is already in the growth phase, pruning the root ball makes sense. Shorten overly long roots and ensure a balance between the root system and the crown.
Ideal substrate conditions:
- retains moisture and is loose
- organic and mineral material in equal proportions for young plants
- older shrubs prefer higher amounts of Akadama soil
maintenance
Like other bonsai plants, hibiscus requires a little more care. This species only produces many flowers if the environmental conditions are right and the requirements are met.
pour
Once the substrate surface has dried, the hibiscus requires water. Water the mini tree vigorously and penetratingly until the substrate is soaked. Waterlogging must not occur, which is why the bonsai pot must have drainage holes. Drought is also detrimental and will cause the tree to shed its buds before flowering.
Fertilize
If you do not repot the bonsai every year but every two to three years, regular fertilization is recommended from spring to September. Give the mini tree liquid fertilizer with the irrigation water every 14 days. Fertilizer cones are an alternative with a long-term effect.
wintering
The outdoor bonsai likes to spend the mild season in a sunny to partially shaded place on the balcony or terrace. Since the marshmallow in a bonsai pot proves to be slightly frost-sensitive, you should place the tree in a sheltered place such as the cold house during the cold winter months. You can also put the wood under trees without a bowl in the ground.