Chinese Elm Bonsai Tree
Anyone who is new to growing bonsai will not go far wrong with a Chinese elm bonsai tree. Its growth pattern is predictable and it is easy to prune and shape as a bonsai. The broom style is popular but it can also be shaped into most bonsai styles. So it’s an ideal species on which to practise bonsai techniques.
Chinese elm is an ideal bonsai tree for beginners
It’s a versatile species and is suitable for both indoor and outdoor growth. When grown outdoors Chinese elm (Ulmus parvifolia) is deciduous but if grown indoors it will remain more or less evergreen.
The appearance of the bark is variable. Some varieties have smooth bark whilst others have rough, corky bark with deep fissures. Care needs to be exercised when wiring as the bark can be easily damaged.
The varieties with smooth bark are generally not as hardy as those with rough bark and they should be acclimatised slowly to cold conditions. So if they are to be kept outdoors during the winter they should be placed outside in the autumn to allow them to harden up.
The toothed leaves are small and dark green in colour. When pinched, a new shoot grows from the base of nearly every leaf and this results in a dense herringbone pattern of growth.
Chinese elm needs to be kept moist throughout the year. At certain times e.g. in the spring, during high temperatures or when the sun is strong, the tree will require more water.
For outdoor bonsai the feeding regime will consist of high nitrogen during the spring and then balanced feed until late summer. Indoor bonsai trees should be given balanced feed on a weekly basis during the spring and summer and monthly during the winter, apart from when they are out of leaf.
The roots of Chinese elm grow vigorously and unless they are pruned regularly the tree will not thrive.
Chinese elm can be kept in full sun but should be given partial shade in very hot conditions. Some shade is required when it is kept indoors. In winter protect from harsh winds and prolonged periods of rainfall.
For more information about growing bonsai go to Beautiful Bonsai Secrets.
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